Designing Spaces with Natural Charm
Interview with Marina Röhr, Managing Director of Röhr GmbH
Wood is no longer just a building material, but a symbol of warmth, naturalness, and sustainability. Whether in living spaces, hotels, or public institutions – wood gives each space a special atmosphere and creates a harmonious interplay between nature and design. With great passion and love for the material wood, Röhr GmbH creates products under the brand europlac® for individual and durable interior designs that meet the spirit of the time while simultaneously strengthening the connection to nature.
Röhr GmbH is a company that plays a leading role in the wood industry – both in the DACH region and beyond. Founded about 30 years ago by Josef Röhr, a man full of ideas and a special affinity for wood material, the company is now led by his daughter-in-law Marina. Marina Röhr, who originally comes from the fashion industry and brings a passion for aesthetics and sustainability, has managed to modernize Röhr GmbH while staying true to its original values.
Origins in the Wood Business
Formerly working as a wood representative for an Italian company, Josef Röhr decided to become self-employed when he came across an old kitchen production in Slovakia. He quickly transformed this facility into a manufacturing site for custom-made wood panels. "My father-in-law was a modest person, but he had big dreams," recalls Marina Röhr. "He believed in the power of wood and that it could beautify people's everyday lives."
After his son Reinhold joined the company, Röhr GmbH was further expanded and developed into a major player in the timber sector through investments in production and a strategic realignment. However, Reinhold Röhr tragically passed away six years ago, and Marina Röhr decided to continue the family tradition. "It was a difficult path, but I wanted to continue the company in the spirit of the family and give it a personal touch," she says.
Innovation and Sustainability as Core Elements
Since Marina Röhr has taken over leadership, Röhr GmbH and the brand europlac® have continuously evolved. "Our goal is not only to produce high-quality products but also to work in a sustainable manner and set new standards," says the CEO. In the Slovakian production facility, a lot has been invested in automation and digitalization in recent years – including a fully automatic painting system. Currently, an innovative exhibition that will showcase the diversity of the products in a modern way is being developed at the company's headquarters in Tettnang by Lake Constance. Röhr GmbH offers a wide range of wood products that go far beyond standard panels. In addition to fire protection panels and acoustic solutions, the range also includes innovative products like DOLLYWOOD®, a combination of Tyrolean sheep wool and wood, especially developed for use in hotels and high-end interior designs. "I enjoy playing with different materials and combining them with wood to create unique products," explains the CEO. This combination of tradition and innovation is reflected throughout the entire product range. Sustainability is also a central aspect of the company's philosophy. "Wood is a renewable resource, and we are committed to carefully utilizing this valuable resource," she emphasizes. The company works with recyclable materials and offers products like colored veneers specially developed for kindergartens and hospitals. "We want our customers to experience nature even in urban spaces," Marina Röhr clarifies. This reconnection with nature and respect for the environment and resources are deeply embedded in the company culture.
A Family Business with Heart
Although Röhr GmbH is successful in international markets, the company remains true to its family roots. With 30 employees in Tettnang and around 270 in production in Slovakia, Röhr GmbH is large enough to handle international projects, yet small enough to maintain personal contact. "It is a strength of our company that our employees and customers feel like a family," explains the Managing Director. The flat hierarchies also contribute to employees feeling valued and able to act on their own responsibility. For Röhr GmbH, the future is marked by innovation and growth. "Wood offers so many possibilities," she raves. "I dream of one day creating jewelry, furniture, and even fashion accessories from wood." Another wish of Marina Röhr is to expand the service spectrum. Thus, in the future, Röhr GmbH could not only offer high-quality wood products but also plan complete interior design solutions. "The brand europlac® stands for quality and innovation – and I want us to offer our customers more than just a product. We want to create spaces for our customers that inspire and invite comfort," she emphasizes. With her vision, her drive, and her commitment to sustainability and quality, Marina Röhr is an inspiring leader who continues the legacy of her father-in-law while also paving her own path. Röhr GmbH represents not just a family business, but also a philosophy that harnesses the best of nature while focusing on the people behind the products. "We believe that wood can enrich our lives," says Marina Röhr – and Röhr GmbH is living proof of that.