Creatively Packaged: How Design and Technology Go Hand in Hand
Interview with Markus Feurer, Managing Partner of FEURER Group GmbH
In view of the new EU packaging regulation, which aims to reduce the environmental impact of packaging and increase recycling rates, many companies are faced with the challenge of adjusting their strategies. FEURER Group GmbH, however, is already well-prepared to meet these requirements. With a clear focus on sustainability and innovative packaging solutions, the company has worked with the 'Design to Recycling' approach since the 1990s. In conversation with Markus Feurer, the managing partner, we learn more about the company's development, the challenges of the industry, and the innovative power that distinguishes FEURER.
Wirtschaftsforum: Mr. Feurer, the FEURER Group is a fourth-generation family business. Was it clear from the beginning that you would join the company?
Markus Feurer: No, it wasn't necessarily. I was born into a family that is strongly connected with the company. However, my father never pressured us to work in the company. He always gave us the freedom to choose our own path. After my education and a time abroad, I decided to return and help my father. That's how my journey in the company began.
Wirtschaftsforum: What milestones were crucial for the development of the FEURER Group?
Markus Feurer: A decisive turning point was the decision to integrate new technologies. Originally, we were a typical plastics processor, but we invested early in innovative materials such as expandable polypropylene (EPP), which is very recyclable. Another important step was the introduction of co-packing, where we help our customers pack and present their products more efficiently.
Wirtschaftsforum: Can you tell us more about co-packing?
Markus Feurer: Co-packing is an important business area for us. We support clients, particularly in the cosmetics and pharmaceutical industries, in packaging their products in attractive displays. This helps them to boost their sales by better showcasing their products. We have been working in this sector for over 35 years, which has allowed us to gain a lot of experience.
Wirtschaftsforum: What is the situation in the automotive sector, which you also serve?
Markus Feurer: In the automotive sector, we have launched the brand "FLEXILITY®", which specializes in reusable packaging. These custom-designed carriers are crucial for transporting components safely and undamaged to their destinations.
Wirtschaftsforum: Sustainability plays a major role in your company. How do you implement this issue?
Markus Feurer: Sustainability is of central importance to us. We have been working with the "Design to Recycling" approach since the 90s. This means that we design our products to be easily recyclable. We also focus on mono-materials and continuously increase the proportion of recycled material in our products. Our goal is to minimize environmental impact while simultaneously offering our customers innovative solutions.
Wirtschaftsforum: What role does automation play in product development?
Markus Feurer: Automation plays an increasingly important role both in our production and in product development. In recent years, we have adapted our products and processes to meet the requirements of Industry 4.0.
This means that we are not only reducing manual activities but also integrating automated systems that allow for higher efficiency and precision. For example, we have developed specialized packaging solutions that are designed for automated use. These solutions require tight tolerances so that robots can handle them efficiently. Through automation, we can not only save costs but also further enhance the quality of our products and respond more quickly to the needs of our customers.
Wirtschaftsforum: How do you deal with the challenges of the skilled labor shortage?
Markus Feurer: The shortage of skilled workers is also a major issue for us. We continuously train our own apprentices and have a very diverse team with over 40 different nationalities. This diversity brings new perspectives and ideas to our company, which helps us to stay flexible and innovative.
Wirtschaftsforum: What does your marketing strategy look like for introducing new products?
Markus Feurer: Interestingly, we have not been going to trade fairs for 20 years. Instead, we use modern communication channels and direct outreach to reach our customers. We rely on social media and other digital platforms to promote our products and services.
Wirtschaftsforum: How do you see the future of the FEURER Group?
Markus Feurer: We are optimistic about the future. Despite the challenges in the automotive industry, we are well-positioned and have innovative products that meet market demands. Moreover, we have a very good leadership team and a fifth generation in the family that is already active in the business, which gives us additional stability.