End-to-End Solutions for Complex Supply Chains
Interview with Adrian Siegler, Managing Director of io-consultants GmbH & Co. KG
Global supply chains are becoming increasingly complex, while efficiency, digitalization and sustainability are more critical than ever. Companies need integrated solutions that combine strategy, technology and execution. io, based in Germany, has evolved into a holistic partner for industrial supply chain projects, combining strategy, engineering and digital expertise across all project phases. In this interview, Managing Director Adrian Siegler discusses the company’s development, its comprehensive service approach, the growing role of data, AI and long-term customer relationships.
European Business: Mr. Siegler, io has a long history. How has the company developed over time?
Adrian Siegler: The company was founded in 1958 in
Heidelberg, originally focusing on logistics planning. Over the years, we have continuously expanded our portfolio based on customer demand. Factory planning, IT with a strong focus on SAP, architecture, project management, and building services engineering were added step by step. Most recently, analytics and AI have become key elements. Today, we are a holistic solution provider for supply chain projects, offering everything from a single source.
European Business: You are Managing Director and shareholder of io. How would you describe your role within the company?
Adrian Siegler: I have been part of the management team since 2017 and Managing Director since 2019. In addition, I have been a shareholder for more than eleven years. This means I am not only responsible for operations but also actively involved in shaping the company’s strategic direction.
European Business: How is the company structured today?
Adrian Siegler: We employ around 400 people worldwide, with about 250 based in
Heidelberg. In Germany, we operate eight locations, complemented by international offices in the USA, Dubai, Singapore, and soon Vietnam. The company is owned by 13 active partners, without external investors, and generates around EUR 70 million in revenue.
European Business: How is your holistic approach implemented across the different phases of a project?
Adrian Siegler: We support our clients across all project phases – from strategy and feasibility studies to implementation. We design and manage complete solutions and integrate IT systems such as warehouse management, MES, and SAP S/4HANA. This ensures that physical and digital aspects are fully aligned.
European Business: What are the key benefits for your customers?
Adrian Siegler: Our approach eliminates complexity. Clients have one partner and one point of contact throughout the entire lifecycle. This is especially valuable given the shortage of skilled professionals. In addition, we build long-term relationships by continuing to work with project and operational data after project completion and identifying further optimization potential for our customers.
European Business: How important are data, analytics, and AI for your business?
Adrian Siegler: They are central to our development. We use project data to create around 50 standard analytics use cases and generate additional value. AI accelerates planning, automates quality checks, and improves decision-making. We also rely on data from more than 10,000 completed projects. Internally, we support this with a dedicated AI ambassador program involving around 30 employees who actively drive the use of AI across the company.
European Business: Which industries and markets do you focus on, and how do you approach sales?
Adrian Siegler: Our core sectors include life sciences, pharmaceuticals, food, consumer goods and healthcare, while we also serve industries such as mechanical engineering, manufacturing, retail, and specialized areas like fashion logistics. Germany remains our main market, with around 20 to 25% international business. Our sales approach is based on three pillars: tenders for large projects, long-term client relationships, and an active internal sales team focusing on new business via direct outreach and digital channels. Marketing is supported by targeted presence at industry events.
European Business: What are your key success factors and goals for the future?
Adrian Siegler: A key success factor is that we deliver almost all services with our own permanent employees rather than relying on external subcontractors, ensuring flexibility and consistently high quality. Our large, interdisciplinary teams work closely together, guided by our four core values: reliability, competence, individuality and commitment. At the same time, we foster an open, learning-oriented environment where young talents are encouraged to contribute ideas and challenge existing approaches. We invest in our employees through our internal io-University, focusing on technical expertise, soft & digital skills and continuous development to prepare them for future challenges, particularly in the context of AI. Looking ahead, we aim to continue growing, expand our portfolio and further develop AI-based solutions while maintaining our strong team culture.