Comfort Worlds for Humans and Horses
Interview with Detmar Wiltfang, Managing Director of Viebrockreithallen GmbH & Co. Betrieb KG
Horsekeeping and equestrian sports have a long tradition and are for many people a reflection of joy of life, freedom, and closeness to nature. Viebrockreithallen GmbH & Co. Betrieb KG in Harsefeld combines this passion with the latest technology and sustainable construction. The company has set itself the task of creating individual comfort spaces for horse and human - innovative stables and equestrian facilities that make dreams of safety, comfort, and harmony a reality. Respect for animals and the environment is always at the forefront.
Wirtschaftsforum: Mr. Wiltfang, you have been part of the management team for over two decades. How has Viebrockreithallen developed during this time?
Detmar Wiltfang: The start was not very easy. When we were founded in 1999, we initially appeared as a provider of standardized riding halls. But equestrian sports are too individual, too emotional, too demanding. This realization was an important turning point. Then we had to deal with a major complaint, not our fault, but very stressful. Moreover, the banking crisis hit us. Also, with the support of our corporate group – we belong to Viebrockhaus AG – we were able to emerge stronger. Our motto has always been: Get up, persevere, stay correct. Today we would say: High Performer through attitude.
Wirtschaftsforum: What sets your equestrian facilities apart from others?
Detmar Wiltfang: We don't build off-the-shelf riding halls. Our focus is on custom-made equestrian facilities – for amateurs, top athletes, or investors. Our portfolio ranges from riding halls, stable buildings, and equine clinics to lunge circles, residential houses, or even helicopter hangars. Everything turnkey, with a focus on innovation and sustainability as guidelines.
Wirtschaftsforum: What role does technology play in animal welfare in your facilities?
Detmar Wiltfang: A central one. Our bispectral camera systems detect heat sources and unusual behavior in horses early, which can potentially save lives. AI-supported analyses, intelligent drinking systems, climate optimization and air purification through our high-pressure spray mist systems improve health and safety in daily stable routines. In addition, the automatic manure suction system, which brings a significant ease of work and time saving in daily stable work. A major advantage in times of increasing staff shortages. All these innovations have a positive impact on animal welfare, efficiency and ease of work alike.
Wirtschaftsforum: And how do you implement sustainability in concrete terms?
Detmar Wiltfang: For us, sustainability means: building to last, conserving resources, and reducing operating costs. We consciously avoided fossil fuel heating systems 20 years ago and have consistently adhered to this. We use rainwater, rely on PV systems with storage, recyclable building materials, and energy-efficient construction methods that also save concrete. We have received multiple awards for these approaches, including the German Innovation Award in 2020. However, what is crucial is that our solutions provide real added value – for animals, people, and the environment.
Wirtschaftsforum: How is your company currently positioned?
Detmar Wiltfang: We currently employ 28 permanent staff and strategically enhance our capacities through the skilled trade workers of Viebrockhaus AG. This interplay ensures maximum flexibility, high implementation speed, and the ability to successfully realize complex projects internationally. Our annual turnover is between 23 and 26 million EUR. With the strategic backing of Viebrockhaus AG, we continue our growth trajectory – both nationally and internationally. Projects have already been successfully realized in England, France, Spain, Austria, Switzerland, Luxembourg, and the Netherlands. From 2027/28, we plan to additionally make our mark overseas. In equestrian sports, we observe two distinct trends: high-tech, demanding, exclusive sports at a Formula 1 level, and a growing focus on animal welfare and relationships: many people enjoy spending time with their horse without sporting ambitions. We have responded to this. We serve both elite sports and grassroots sports, providing appropriate concepts for elite athletes, recreational athletes, and leisure riders.
Wirtschaftsforum: What personally drives you?
Detmar Wiltfang: I am a rider myself, come from a family of riders, and know the scene from the inside. For me, equestrian facilities are not production sites but habitats, places for encounter, trust, development. That's why my motivation is to create quality of life for humans and animals – with consideration, respect, and responsibility. I want to hand over the company well, so I am deeply involved in New Work, corporate culture, and leadership. A company is not a construction kit; it is a living organism. I have introduced a scientifically founded model of action control, similar to what is used by the Bundeswehr or professional sports. Initially, this was met with skepticism, but it has helped us enormously. We communicate more openly, respectfully, and consciously today. The potentials of individuals have become more visible, and motivation has increased. This has noticeably changed our culture – for the better.
Wirtschaftsforum: What is your vision for the future of Viebrock riding halls?
Detmar Wiltfang: We want to strengthen our position as the leading provider of sustainable, technologically advanced equestrian facilities, both nationally and internationally. We want to help shape the future of equestrian sports, with respect for the animal and responsibility towards the environment and society. Our vision is a world in which horses and humans feel comfortable – in spaces that are designed for them.