How a Small Clip Revolutionizes the Packaging World
Interview with Dr. Alexander Giehl, CEO of Poly-clip System GmbH & Co. KG
Hardly anyone knows them by name, yet we encounter their products daily: Whether sausage, jam and butter, milk, rice pudding or silicone cartridges - Poly-clip System GmbH & Co. KG is a world leader in clip closure solutions. In conversation with Dr. Alexander Giehl, CEO of the medium-sized company from Hattersheim, it becomes clear: Behind the hidden champion lies not only technical know-how but also a strong desire to make packaging more sustainable and actively shape global markets.
Wirtschaftsforum: Mr. Dr. Giehl, how has Poly-clip developed since its founding?
Dr. Alexander Giehl: Poly-clip System GmbH is the world leader in clip closure machines and materials, and while not everyone is familiar with our name, they know our products – for example, the clips on sausage packaging. The company was founded over 100 years ago and has evolved from a seal manufacturer to a leader in innovation for clip closure solutions. After World War II, we invented the first string clip that still sets the standard today. Over the decades, Poly-clip has specialized in clipping – a clear focus that has made us strong. Today, we export 80% of our machines and materials worldwide and produce almost exclusively in Germany.
Wirtschaftsforum: What role does sustainability play in your company?
Dr. Alexander Giehl: A very significant one. We are consistently working on making packaging more sustainable. This includes reducing material usage as well as developing recyclable or biodegradable clips. For example, at the last fair, we introduced a clip made from biodegradable plastic that can replace the traditional copper clip in fruit and vegetable nets. Especially in countries without functional recycling structures, it is important to offer packaging that degrades after a few years and does not burden the environment. At the same time, we are optimizing existing systems to reduce CO2 emissions. Because we know: those who want to survive into the next generation must act sustainably today.
Wirtschaftsforum: What are the current innovations from Poly-clip?
Dr. Alexander Giehl: Apart from biodegradable clips, we recently introduced a waterproof transport robot for the wet area of the food industry - in cooperation with a robot manufacturer. We are also working on predictive maintenance: our machines collect data on filling times and clip pressure, analyze it, and provide the operator with hints when a wear part should be changed. This boosts efficiency and minimizes downtime.
Wirtschaftsforum: Where do you see the company in ten years?
Dr. Alexander Giehl: We want to bring our clip packaging solutions even more into technical sectors, such as for silicone cartridges in the hardware store area. Additionally, we will expand our offerings in the hotel and hospitality sectors, for example with refill solutions for food. Internationally, we want to grow in markets like India, Indonesia, and Africa. In parallel, we continue to focus on sustainability and aim to set standards in the industry – through innovations that conserve resources and reduce CO2 emissions.
Wirtschaftsforum: In conclusion: What personally motivates you at Poly-clip?
Dr. Alexander Giehl: I am inspired by how the company has been taking responsibility for generations, remains locally rooted, and at the same time sets global standards. Poly-clip combines innovation with sustainability and humanity. That is a combination that motivates me – and a work environment in which I enjoy working.