Wirtschaftsforum: Mr. Prof. Dr. Gilgen, Ms. Kister, MBS is now one of the largest international manufacturers of current transformers. How has the development of the company progressed?

Prof. Dr. Wolfgang Gilgen: I founded the company in 1977, so we have been on the market for almost 50 years. We started with a manageable production of low-voltage current transformers. In 1980, we began to diversify and expand our product range and our production. We have our own plastics production and also manufacture all mechanical components ourselves. Our production depth is now at 98%. The fact that we have control over quality and processes in our own hands is our guarantee of success. We now generate an annual turnover of 43 million EUR and employ 186 staff in Sulzbach. In Germany, our market share is 80%. Our commitment to Made in Germany is our philosophy and strategy. The company has now grown into a group with a total turnover of over 100 million EUR. The 18 affiliated companies produce measuring devices. The group offers everything needed in the field of renewable energies. 

Wirtschaftsforum: The past years have been difficult for many companies. How was it for you?

Prof. Dr. Wolfgang Gilgen: We did not experience any decline in sales. Because if you want to save, you have to measure, both in production and distribution. For everything above 125 amperes, our products are needed to make electricity measurable, wind power and e-mobility, generally the area of renewable energies, remain on the upswing. Therefore, we also look positively towards the future. However, we expect from the politics a reasonable energy policy. Energy costs have risen, incidental expenses are too high, and there is a shortage of skilled workers. The crafts sector must be promoted, and more social responsibility is needed.

Wirtschaftsforum: What products do you offer to your customers?

Claudia Kister: The most important are our low voltage current transformers. They are followed by current transformers/voltage transformers for medium voltage. In addition, we offer transducers and Rogowski coils, which are needed to make energy measurable. Our portfolio also includes busbar insulators and energy meters. We offer a holistic energy management from components to software. 

Wirtschaftsforum: Are there any trends or new developments in this field?

Claudia Kister: Currently, we are seeing increased demand among our customers for low-voltage current transformers specializing in small signal transformers. The market for energy suppliers is rather conservative. Here, network expansion and smart meters are important topics. The industry suffers from frequently changing laws and a shortage of skilled workers. Generally, it also concerns new measurement methods, namely the question of how electricity will be measured in the future.

Wirtschaftsforum: What is happening in your area regarding AI?

Prof. Dr. Wolfgang Gilgen: Regarding the question of how smart we can make our products, we are exchanging ideas with market-leading partners. For the past year, we have been using AI for a transformer calculation program that is rapidly evolving. In order processing, IT, and administration, we use AI tools, as well as for manufacturing optimization.

Wirtschaftsforum: What are the USPs of MBS?

Claudia Kister: We put the customer at the center and speak their language. Customers appreciate our short delivery times; 70 to 80% of orders are shipped the same day. Additionally, our innovation and nearly 50 years of experience add value. Not to be overlooked, we have the world's largest product range, solely comprising our own developments, and we have always been ahead of the competition.

Wirtschaftsforum: What goals do you have for the company?

Prof. Dr. Wolfgang Gilgen: The goal is to continue growing. This is only possible through the intelligence of the devices. New technologies will always play a major role. We want to continue setting standards in the future and assert ourselves as market leaders. For this, qualified and committed professionals are essential.