Sustainable Innovation in Packaging Technology
Interview with Alexander Bannach, Chief Sales Officer of B&B Verpackungstechnik GmbH
Over the past decades, B&B Verpackungstechnik GmbH has evolved from an engineering service provider to a leading supplier of packaging machines. Originally grown through proximity to major manufacturers of packaging materials, the company now builds innovative bagging and packaging machines for various applications. With 250 employees and an annual turnover of over 50 million EUR, the company focuses on sustainable solutions. In the interview, Alexander Bannach, Chief Sales Officer, discusses the company's history, challenges, and future strategies.
Wirtschaftsforum: Mr. Bannach, can you give us an overview of the development of B&B Verpackungstechnik GmbH?
Alexander Bannach: Originally, B&B started as an engineering service provider in the 1970s, growing into the packaging industry due to its proximity to large packaging manufacturers. At that time, we began designing modifications for such machines. In the 1980s, we started to build our own machines and evolved into a manufacturer of bag making machines. These machines produce pre-made bags for various applications such as pet food or stand-up pouches for things like soap refill packs. About 20 years ago, we also acquired a company called MAF that specialized in end-of-line packaging machinery. Today, we offer a wide range of packaging solutions, such as packaging toilet paper in bags or wrapping folding boxes in film.
Wirtschaftsforum: How do you combine customer orientation with the standardization of your machines?
Alexander Bannach: We see ourselves as technology leaders, especially in the field of bag machines, and have a large engineering department. Our machines have a high degree of standardization, but thanks to our modular system, we can customize the equipment to meet the individual needs of our customers. In developing our machines, we focus on efficiently processing recyclable materials. This sets us apart from the competition.
Wirtschaftsforum: How has the coronavirus pandemic affected your company and what measures have you taken?
Alexander Bannach: While long-term projects remained alive, short-term business and revenues dropped by about 20%. However, since 2021, the situation has stabilized. We are now focusing more on digitalization and had to respond flexibly to the shortage of electronic parts by using alternative components. The pandemic has also made us more digital in terms of communication and project management.
Wirtschaftsforum: How are you addressing current market uncertainties?
Alexander Bannach: Currently, we still feel some reluctance to invest. However, we are strongly established in the food and pet food sectors - industries that are always operational. In addition, we rely on internationality, which provides us with resilience. For example, in Europe and North America, we see an increased need for automation due to labor shortages. Our fully automated solutions reduce manual intervention and increase user-friendliness.
Wirtschaftsforum: Sustainability is a central theme in the packaging industry. How does B&B Verpackungstechnik position itself in this area?
Alexander Bannach: We are a green company connected to a local biogas plant. Additionally, we are working with major market players to develop new, recyclable materials. Our 'Straffpacker' allows our customers to band products directly and energy-efficiently with film, saving up to 75% on film and over 50% on energy. In doing so, we also support the goals of the Packaging Directive 2030.
Wirtschaftsforum: Which markets are the focus of your international expansion?
Alexander Bannach: The USA is a large and growing market for us. Our presence in Europe is also strong. In the coming years, we particularly want to grow further in South America and Asia, especially in India.
Wirtschaftsforum: How do you deal with the increasing competitive pressure, particularly from Asia?
Alexander Bannach: We consider ourselves premium problem solvers. Our strength lies in our agility and close collaboration with global players like Mondi, Amcor, Nestlé, and Mars, as well as in the solid partnerships with our long-standing customers. We are proud of our innovative power and the technology standard we offer to our customers. 'Made in Germany' is still appreciated worldwide, and we live this quality standard every day.
Wirtschaftsforum: What are the next steps for B&B Verpackungstechnik GmbH?
Alexander Bannach: For 2024/25, we plan to expand our service offerings and continue to drive our growth. Especially in the field of automation solutions for bag machines, we see great potential, as many of our customers are struggling with labor shortages. Our Managing Director Jörn-Peter Bäumer emphasizes: "We are now preparing the company for the future."