The joy at the opening of the new LAUDA production facility in Pinghu is clear to see for everyone involved, from left to right: Lisa Zhang (Deputy General Manager of Investment Development Group of Pinghu Economic-Technological Development Zone), Ernest Liu (Managing Director LAUDA Production China), Dr. Marc Stricker (COO), Miao He (Standing Committee Member of Pinghu Party Committee and Secretary of Party Working Committee of Pinghu Economic-Technological Development Zone), Dr. Gunther Wobser (President & CEO of LAUDA), Xuebin Wang (Director of the Administrative Committee of PEDZ), Yifeng Shen (Vice Director of Administrative Committee of Pinghu Economic-Technological Development Zone), Christoph Baumann (Director Global Production at LAUDA) and Anni Chu (Director of German Investment Promotion Bureau of Pinghu Economic-Technological Development Zone). © LAUDA
New Pinghu plant near Shanghai inaugurated
LAUDA DR. R. WOBSER GMBH & CO. KG officially opened its new production facility in Pinghu, China, on October 18, 2024. With around 2,300 square meters, the plant doubles the previous production area and is an important milestone in the company's international expansion strategy. The global market leader for precise temperature control has been developing and manufacturing in China for eleven years.
Around 50 guests attended the opening ceremony, including LAUDA President & CEO Dr. Gunther Wobser, Dr. Marc Stricker (COO) and Christoph Baumann (Director Global Production). As local guests of honor, Ernest Liu, General Manager of LAUDA Production China, welcomed Miao He (Standing Committee Member of Pinghu Party Committee and Secretary of Party Working Committee of Pinghu Economic-Technological Development, abbreviated as: PEDZ), and the Director of the Administrative Committee of PEDZ, Xuebin Wang. The celebrations included traditional Chinese performances and rituals such as drum dancing, lion dancing and mask changing (Bian Lian).
In his speech, Dr. Gunther Wobser emphasized the importance of the move from Shanghai to Pinghu and gave an overview of the commitment of LAUDA in Asia: “Our expansion in the Far East began in 2006 with the 'Focus Asia' strategic project. In 2008, we established our own sales presence with LAUDA China and in 2013 we started production. With today's opening of the new production site in Pinghu, we are not only doubling our capacity, but also underlining our long-term commitment to this dynamic region.”
The investment in the new site underlines the confidence LAUDA has in the Chinese market and in the capabilities of the local team. Dr. Marc Stricker highlighted the efficiency of the project: “Thanks to the excellent cooperation of everyone involved, we were able to complete the relocation and expansion in just nine months. This is proof of the dynamics and commitment of our entire team.”
In recent years, LAUDA has continuously invested in quality assurance of the entry-level devices manufactured in China. Ernest Liu proudly reports: “For several years now, we have been able to guarantee the well-known LAUDA quality for all of our products manufactured in China and thus supply our customers worldwide directly.” With a planned annual turnover of around 120 million euros and over 600 employees worldwide, LAUDA sees the new plant as a geographically important basis for further growth.
Dr. Wobser accentuated the strategic importance of the new location. With the expansion, the family-owned company is ideally positioned to meet the growing demands of the Asian market and at the same time optimize the global supply chain. The new premises will enable the company to respond more flexibly to customer requirements and further strengthen its innovative power. At the same time, research and development will be expanded locally.
40th anniversary of employment at LAUDA: Gabriele Sack (center) was honored for her long-standing loyalty. She was congratulated by (from left to right): Dr. Mario Englert (CFO), Works Council Chairman Elmar Mohr, Sonja Hörner-Dürr (Manager Order Processing), Hubert Segeritz (representative of the city of Lauda-Königshofen), President & CEO Dr. Gunther Wobser and Dr. Marc Stricker (COO). © LAUDA
LAUDA honors Gabriele Sack for her many years of commitment
At the beginning of October, a special employee award ceremony was held at LAUDA DR. R. WOBSER GMBH & CO. KG. On the occasion of Gabriele Sack's 40th anniversary with the company, the management honored the long-serving employee in the presence of her colleagues for her loyalty to the family-owned company.
Gabriele Sack's career at LAUDA began on September 10, 1984 with an apprenticeship as an industrial clerk. After successfully completing her training, she worked in various departments of the company and established herself as an indispensable expert in order processing, particularly for plant engineering.
Dr. Gunther Wobser, President & CEO of LAUDA, emphasized the special merits of the anniversary in his laudation: “Mrs. Sack is a pillar of our company. With her extensive know-how in order processing for plant engineering and her reliable, conscientious manner, she is an invaluable support for our internal processes and procedures. Her calm nature and her precise, conscientious way of working are of great value to LAUDA.”
In recognition of her many years of service, Gabriele Sack received the LAUDA certificate of honor and a certificate from the state of Baden-Württemberg, signed by Prime Minister Winfried Kretschmann. Hubert Segeritz, representing the mayor of the city of Lauda-Königshofen, emphasized the rarity of a 40-year anniversary and acknowledged the importance of LAUDA as a reliable employer – both for the city and the region.
Sonja Hörner-Dürr (Manager Order Processing) and Gabriele Sack's direct supervisor, highlighted the special qualities of the jubilant: “Gabi is a highly valued employee – both by her colleagues and our customers. Her helpfulness, friendliness and precision make her a valuable member of our team. She is a calming influence in our department and always works for the good of the company.”
Works Council Chairman Elmar Mohr concluded by noting the special nature of the anniversary: “40 years with a company is a remarkable anniversary. Mrs. Sack has been exemplary in balancing her career and family, as well as her volunteer work, including in the local carnival club.”
Gabriele Sack's company anniversary once again underlines the importance of long-standing employees for the success of LAUDA. It shows how valuable experience and loyalty contribute to the long-term growth of a family business. The world leader in precise temperature control underscores its position as an attractive employer and will continue to honor many of its long-standing employees in the future.
Rainer Deinert (centre) was honored by LAUDA President & CEO Dr. Gunther Wobser (3rd from right) and Dr. Mario Englert (CFO, left) and Dr. Marc Stricker (COO, right) for 45 years of service. © LAUDA
Electrical engineering expert plays a decisive role in shaping the company’s history
On September 30, 2024, LAUDA DR. R. WOBSER GMBH & CO. KG celebrated Rainer Deinert's remarkable 45th anniversary with the company. During the ceremony, the long-time employee was honored for his extraordinary commitment and loyalty to the family-owned company.
Rainer Deinert began his career at LAUDA on September 3, 1979 with an apprenticeship as an energy device electronics technician. In the decades that followed, he worked in various positions at LAUDA and continually improved his qualifications. From setting up the repair shop, to managing the service shop, to managing the electrical assembly with a total of 35 employees, Deinert has played a decisive role in the technical development of the company.
In his laudatory speech, Dr. Gunther Wobser, President & CEO of LAUDA, acknowledged the special achievements of the jubilee: “Rainer Deinert was one of 100 applicants for only eight training positions at LAUDA at that time. His development from apprentice to manager is impressive. With his hard work, commitment and technical expertise, he has helped shape LAUDA for decades and contributed to the company's success.”
Christoph Baumann, Head of Global Production, added: “Rainer Deinert was the technical rock in the surf. He actively supported product development beyond his duties and was always a competent contact person for superiors, colleagues and trainees.”
In addition to his full-time job, Deinert has held various honorary positions at LAUDA. Since March 2007, he has been a member of the board of examiners for the professions of electronics technician for devices and systems and mechatronics technician, and since February 2007 he has also been a trainer for electronics technicians for devices and systems. In April 2010, he was appointed fire safety officer and also acted as a company first aider. In addition, he supported the development of the LAUDA site in China in 2013.
In his acceptance speech, Rainer Deinert emphasized his deep connection to the world market leader in temperature control: “It was a calling for me to work here. I am proud that I was able to contribute to the success of the company and that during my time here I was able to accompany a total of 36 young people through their training, 19 of whom are still working for the company today. It has been a great honor and pleasure for me to work at LAUDA.”
In recognition of his many years of service, Rainer Deinert received the LAUDA certificate of honor and a certificate from the Chamber of Commerce and Industry. On the same day, a new phase of life began for the jubilee employee with his entry into passive semi-retirement.
Anniversary celebration at LAUDA: Dr. Marc Stricker (center), COO of LAUDA DR. R. WOBSER GMBH & CO. KG, was honored for his ten years of service. His fellow managing directors, CFO Dr. Mario Englert (left) and President & CEO Dr. Gunther Wobser (right), congratulated him at a ceremony. © LAUDA
Managing Director has been shaping the development of the global market leader for a decade
At a ceremony, LAUDA DR. R. WOBSER GMBH & CO. honored Dr. Marc Stricker's ten years of service and the managing director's associated significant contribution to the company's success.
In his speech to the executives present, Dr. Gunther Wobser, President & CEO of LAUDA, looked back on Dr. Stricker's impressive career: “Marc not only brings many years of experience from well-known heating technology companies, but also an outstanding academic career. His combination of technical expertise and business know-how makes him an indispensable pillar of our company.” In addition, Dr. Wobser emphasized that Dr. Stricker is characterized by perseverance, discipline and the will to get to the bottom of things. Many construction projects and R&D projects in recent years bear Dr. Stricker's unmistakable signature. Within the three-person management team, which also includes Dr. Mario Englert, the engineer is responsible for research & development, production, logistics, quality and environmental management, as well as for the three foreign production sites in Spain, China and the US.
In his acceptance speech, Dr. Stricker emphasized the importance of being open to new ideas and his appreciation of medium-sized companies. He deliberately chose LAUDA because he can make the best possible use of his skills and enjoys his work. He emphasized with great appreciation: “I appreciate the support of my colleagues and the opportunity to work in a family business.” In conclusion, Dr. Stricker praised the current management team of the global market leader and said he was confident and well positioned for future challenges.
Dr. Wobser stated: “Marc embodies the perfect combination of technical expertise and entrepreneurial tact that LAUDA needs. His keen sense of the dynamics of family businesses is invaluable. We thank him for ten years of passion, commitment and extraordinary dedication, which have contributed significantly to the success of LAUDA.” As a token of his appreciation, Dr. Wobser presented his fellow Managing Director with the LAUDA certificate of honor, a certificate from the Chamber of Industry and Commerce and a gift.
With Dr. Stricker's anniversary, LAUDA once again underlines its position as a future-oriented family-owned company that focuses on long-term cooperation and continuous innovation. With its experienced management team, the world market leader for precise temperature control is well equipped to continue setting standards in the industry in the future.
Dr. Gunther Wobser (left), President & CEO of LAUDA, with hobby beekeepers Manuel Faulhaber (middle) and Stephen Bauer (right) inspecting the beehives. © LAUDA
LAUDA expands its ecological commitment
LAUDA DR. R. WOBSER GMBH & CO. KG established two bee colonies on the company premises last year. The first honey production was completed this summer. During an on-site visit, Dr. Gunther Wobser, President & CEO of the world market leader for precise temperature control, and the company's two hobby beekeepers were impressed by the beehives and the quality and taste of the first honey harvested.
“With the bee colonies, we want to make a contribution to local biodiversity and at the same time raise awareness of the importance of bees,” explains Dr. Wobser of the project. “It is a concrete step in our efforts to assume social responsibility.”
The two bee colonies, tended by LAUDA employees Stephen Bauer and Manuel Faulhaber, produced a total of 20 kilograms of honey in their first season. The mixture of rapeseed and late harvest is offered for sale to the company's employees. The proceeds will be used to cover costs and to purchase another colony in 2025.
Hobby beekeeper Stephen Bauer sees remarkable parallels between temperature regulation in the beehive and LAUDA's core business: “Bees keep the temperature in their hive constant between 34 and 35 degrees Celsius. They achieve this through behaviors such as fanning their wings to cool down or muscle tremors to generate heat. This natural precision is impressive, even if it is fundamentally different from our technical solutions.”
Stephen Bauer gave an overview of the challenges to date. In particular, the phenomenon of premature crystallization of honey in the combs has been a major difficulty in the harvesting process. The natural population dynamics of the bee colonies, especially the process of swarming, was also a new and instructive experience.
LAUDA plans to further expand the bee project in the coming years and establish it as an integral part of the company's commitment to the environment and sustainability. If the harvest is successful, the honey will be used as a delicious gift for LAUDA guests.
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