Packaging Technology: Tailored Innovation
Interview with Holger Merz, CEO of MERZ Verpackungsmaschinen GmbH
Since its founding by Eckhard Merz in 1971, MERZ Verpackungsmaschinen GmbH in Lich has been known for technical precision and customized packaging solutions. CEO Holger Merz leads the family business into the second generation – with a spirit of innovation and a clear focus on individual customer needs. Amidst growing structures and global presence, the company remains true to its principles: flexibility, quality, and continuous development. In the interview, Holger Merz discusses current challenges and plans.
Wirtschaftsforum: Mr. Merz, MERZ Verpackungsmaschinen GmbH is known for its individual packaging solutions. Can you introduce us to your current machine program?
Holger Merz: I would be happy to. Our portfolio includes one to five-lane stick pack machines as well as one to six-lane edge seal pouch machines for three or four sides. In addition, we are the market leader in SNUS packaging machines and provide complete lines with semi- and fully automatic secondary packaging. Our dosing technology covers powders, granules, micro-tablets, piece goods, and liquids. We produce packaging solutions for the pharmaceutical, cosmetics, chemical, tobacco, and food industries. Our machines are known for their high flexibility and durability.
Wirtschaftsforum: Your company is growing rapidly. What changes does this bring?
Holger Merz: Over the last two years, we have grown from 60 to over 100 employees. Our new location, into which we have invested 12 million EUR, is already insufficient, so we had to reactivate our old building. Additionally, we are experiencing a shift towards small-scale production. While we previously only manufactured custom special machinery, customer demand has increased so much that we need to standardize some products to handle the volumes. We continue to offer tailored solutions, but those who need quick delivery must sometimes rely on standard products.
Wirtschaftsforum: What are the biggest challenges at the moment?
Holger Merz: Bureaucratic requirements in Germany pose a challenge as they entail additional administrative effort. Two of our employees are solely engaged in administrative tasks, which in our view do not create direct added value. This naturally affects our cost structure. Despite these conditions, we continue to be successful, unlike many other machinery manufacturers. Our growth is largely driven by high customer demand. For us, growth is not an end in itself but a commitment to best meet the desires of our customers.
Wirtschaftsforum: You have a strong presence in the US market. How does the political situation there affect your business?
Holger Merz: We have continuously expanded our market position in the USA over the past few years. Ultimately, the tariffs planned or introduced there represent a significant burden for American companies, as they have to pass on the additional costs to their customers. In the USA, there are only a few machine builders for the pharmaceutical industry – about 90% of the required machines come from Europe or Japan. American companies therefore remain dependent on imports. Given our strong growth in Germany, which already poses great challenges, we are currently refraining from further investments in the US market and are focusing on serving the existing demand as best as possible.
Wirtschaftsforum: You have recently received a patent for a new product. Can you tell us more about it?
Holger Merz: Yes, we have obtained the patent for the so-called Activ Stickpacks. This packaging solution includes a desiccant strip that absorbs and binds any moisture from the product. This is especially important for moisture-sensitive products like medications, denture adhesives, or powdered substances. The reliable absorption of moisture significantly extends the shelf life of these products, allowing manufacturers better planning security and optimized inventory levels. The technology can be connected to our machines and integrated into the production process. This development once again underscores our innovative strength and shows that we consciously take on challenging technological tasks that other companies avoid.
Wirtschaftsforum: What personally drives you?
Holger Merz: Money is not my motivation. My goal is to show what we are capable of. We are inventors – that is our DNA. We don’t need big marketing, because our customers recommend us. Our goal is to not only meet our customers' expectations, but to exceed them.
Wirtschaftsforum: Finally: What is the journey ahead for MERZ Verpackungsmaschinen?
Holger Merz: We want to continue providing our customers with fast and reliable service. Improving our delivery times is one of our greatest challenges. At the same time, we adhere to our core principle: we offer customized solutions, but with thoughtful standardization. Our growth is completely driven by market demand – and as long as there is demand, we will continue to evolve.