The uvex Arbeitsschutz GmbH, and specifically the “Eyewear” Strategic Business Unit, has been named one of the 100 most innovative German medium-sized companies in 2011. In addition, the company was ranked first in the category “Innovative Processes and Organisation” for its precisely defined innovation process.

Lothar Späth, mentor for “Top 100” in Germany and former premier of the state of Baden-Württemberg, presented the “Top 100” quality seal and the trophy for the “best in category” win on Thursday, 30 June 2011 in the town of Warnemünde on the Baltic coast.

The “Innovative Processes and Organisation” category, which uvex chose to enter, investigates to what extent innovation management is reflected in the company’s organisation and processes. A precisely planned product creation process, for which uvex has established clear rules, begins with brainstorming: this is a process of cooperation between the innovation centre, product management and sales. The interaction of these three departments ensures that clients’ requirements are met and that design and technology are fully integrated.

Under the “Innovation Quarterly 8” programme, those responsible examine the collected ideas in a multi-level selection process, so that only those with the best prospects of success are implemented. This programme also commits the company to launching at least one innovative product into the market every quarter for two successive years. This is an ambitious goal, but it can be achieved with a dedicated team, as Group Managing Director Stefan Brück knows: “Creative ideas and unconventional ways of thinking are not just a means for us to increase our sales. For uvex, innovation is a passion and a way to make a difference. We are very proud of this award, and it shows that our enthusiasm for developing innovative product concepts is paying off.”                                       

“Top 100” searches for and promotes medium-sized companies that stand out for their excellence in innovation. This search is carried out by innovation experts at the Vienna University of Economics and Business, under the leadership of Prof. Dr. Nikolaus Franke. Over several months, the University monitored the approaches of 272 medium-sized German companies to innovation. The 100 best companies, including uvex, are awarded the seal of quality for one year.  

The uvex group
UVEX WINTER HOLDING GmbH & Co. KG brings together four globally active companies under one roof: the uvex safety group, uvex sports, Alpina International and Filtral. The uvex group is represented in 22 countries by 38 subsidiaries, but chooses to do most of its manufacturing in Germany. Two-thirds of the company’s 2,140-strong workforce is employed in Germany. uvex is a global partner to international elite sport and equips a host of top athletes. The company stands for top quality, high safety standards and the latest technologies. uvex manufactures ski and sports goggles and cycling, skiing, riding and motorbike helmets, as well as offering a complete head-to-toe range of industrial safety wear products. The motto “protecting people” has always been at the heart of the company’s activities.