Safety and Comfort for Extreme Applications
Interview with Anton Pfanner, Managing Director of PFANNER Schutzbekleidung GmbH
Forestry is one of the most dangerous sectors of work, as Anton Pfanner, founder and managing director of PFANNER Schutzbekleidung GmbH in Koblach, highlights. For working under the toughest conditions, the Austrian company offers a complete package from head to toe, from PROTOS® head protection to shoes for extreme areas. PFANNER Schutzbekleidung is now globally recognized for the highest safety standards and unparalleled wearing comfort.
Wirtschaftsforum: Mr. Pfanner, how did PFANNER Protective Clothing come into being?
Anton Pfanner: My vision was to provide maximum safety for forestry and other extreme work sectors. Thus, since 1990 we have developed into specialists for high-quality protective clothing. With the founding of PROTOS GmbH in Koblach and the development of the PROTOS® head protection system, we were able to extend our product range to comprehensive protection. The integral system of PROTOS® has become the absolute benchmark since its market introduction in 2012, meeting more than just the standards.
Wirtschaftsforum: PFANNER manufactures protective clothing for extreme demands. How do you deal with these requirements?
Anton Pfanner: Take forestry work, the most dangerous job of all. Last year alone, 197 forestry workers lost their lives in Austria, while the number of traffic fatalities was 330. Our protective clothing covers the entire body, from head to toe. It is not only safe, but also comfortable, available in plus sizes, and can be customized with company logos. Our cut-resistant trousers are made from high-quality high-tech fibers and meet the highest standards in terms of functionality, fit, and comfort.
Wirtschaftsforum: What role does sustainability play in your corporate philosophy?
Anton Pfanner: Durability and quality are our top priorities. We produce mostly in Europe, focus on short supply chains, and fair working conditions. Our efforts also extend to the environmental aspect – from solar energy in our warehouse to electric vehicles and recyclable packaging.
Wirtschaftsforum: PFANNER protective clothing is globally represented. What does your export market look like, and what developments are there?
Anton Pfanner: We export worldwide to over 500 dealers and are also present at international trade fairs. However, price increases, especially in times of crisis, have led to challenges. In Asia, prices have risen less sharply, which has led to export disadvantages for us. In Switzerland, there was significantly less inflation, which led to a disadvantage for Austrian products.
Wirtschaftsforum: What does digital transformation look like at Pfanner Protective Clothing?
Anton Pfanner: We gladly take on the challenge of transforming manual processes into digitized processes. We invest in the latest technologies, systems, and software to become more effective and sustainable. This applies to production as well as sales or administration. Personal consulting and the possibility for our customers to physically experience products are just as important to us.
Wirtschaftsforum: What are the success factors of your company and what goals do you have for the future?
Anton Pfanner: The success factors are clearly defined - safety and comfort, protection, durability, sustainability, and moisture management. When our care products tailored to the products are used, they also last longer. For the future, we plan to introduce innovative products, use new textiles and technologies, and expand our clothing range. The PROTOS® is continuously being developed to keep up with the growing requirements in forestry or industry. The goal is to expand the all-round package from head to toe and ensure safety and comfort for extreme operations, or as we say: SIMPLY. SAFE. LIVE.