Saving Lives with Innovative Traffic Solutions
Interview with Thomas Fabricius, Head of Sales & Marketing VETRO Verkehrselektronik GmbH
VETRO Verkehrselektronik GmbH, a leading company in the traffic safety technology sector, specializes in providing advanced speed monitoring systems and comprehensive traffic management services. With a mission to enhance road safety and reduce accidents, VETRO combines cutting-edge technology with tailored solutions for public authorities across Germany. Thomas Fabricius, Head of Sales and Marketing, discusses the company’s history, current challenges, innovations in digitalization and AI, sustainability efforts, and his vision for the future of traffic safety.
European Business: Mr. Fabricius, can you share the key milestones in the history of VETRO Verkehrselektronik GmbH?
Thomas Fabricius: VETRO was founded in 1992 during a time of high demand for traffic monitoring systems, particularly in East Germany after reunification. The transition brought an influx of modern vehicles, but the infrastructure wasn’t prepared for such speeds, leading to a surge in accidents. VETRO addressed this challenge by offering a rental model for traffic monitoring systems, helping municipalities meet their safety obligations despite financial constraints. In 2014, the company became part of Vitronic Group, enabling stronger growth and innovation in traffic safety technology.
European Business: How is VETRO structured today, and what role does its parent company play?
Thomas Fabricius: We are now a 100% subsidiary of Vitronic, a global leader in traffic safety technology with a revenue of 220 million EUR. VETRO itself generates 12 million EUR annually, with a dedicated team of 75 employees. Our parent company provides the stability and resources for technological advancements, while we maintain flexibility and agility to address our clients’ specific needs.
European Business: Can you elaborate on your products and services?
Thomas Fabricius: Our portfolio includes mobile and stationary speed monitoring systems, as well as consultancy and project management services. We also offer training and a full-service package for our customers, helping them navigate the growing complexity of traffic safety regulations. Beyond monitoring, we support authorities with expert witness services and technical evaluations, ensuring compliance with strict legal frameworks across different federal states.
European Business: What challenges does VETRO face in its operations?
Thomas Fabricius: A key challenge is public perception, as traffic monitoring is often seen as revenue-driven rather than life-saving. Yet data shows our systems reduce accidents significantly. Internally, attracting skilled employees and securing adequate infrastructure are ongoing priorities.
European Business: How is VETRO addressing digitalization and sustainability?
Thomas Fabricius: Digitalization drives our operations, with investments in advanced technologies enhancing efficiency and precision. By preventing accidents and optimizing traffic flow, we promote safety, sustainability, and ease the burden on emergency services and infrastructure, indirectly benefiting the environment.
European Business: Artificial intelligence is revolutionizing many industries. How does it impact your business?
Thomas Fabricius: AI plays a key role in our innovation efforts. From optimizing system accuracy to analyzing traffic patterns, AI enables us to deliver smarter, more adaptive solutions and helps identify high-risk zones, enabling authorities to allocate resources and plan preventive measures effectively.
European Business: How do you approach employee engagement and development?
Thomas Fabricius: Our team is the backbone of our success. We prioritize training, innovation, and a mission-driven workplace that inspires employees to excel and contribute to road safety.
European Business: What are your future goals and strategies for growth?
Thomas Fabricius: Our vision is to continue reducing road fatalities, which still claim over 3,000 lives annually in Germany. We’re focused on expanding our footprint while maintaining the high quality of our solutions. This includes exploring new technologies, optimizing our processes, and building strong partnerships with municipalities. The demand for our services remains strong, and we are confident about the future, driven by ongoing innovation and a growing need for traffic safety solutions.