Issue 52 | July 2017

MICHAEL PLUS
MADE IN GERMANY

FASSBENDER
CONSULTING EXPERTS
& BUSINESS COACHES
SWISS ARCHITECTS
A DECADE ON THE BIG SCREEN TRAVEL, DESIGN & MORE

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Contents
JULY 2017
22
Photo: Misfortune Cookies
COVER FEATURE
28 Michael Fassbender
In this interview, A-lister Michael
Fassbender talks through some of his
most famous roles, discusses how he gets
into character, his journey to stardom,
the people who helped him along the
way and much more.
SPECIAL THEMES
16 Made in Germany
The Made in Germany label is well
known all over the world. Thus, in this
special theme, we wanted to find out
what great products and innovative ideas
Germany has brought forward lately.
56 Smart Business
The term smart home has become more
and more omnipresent. It is no wonder,
as smart home products offer great living
comfort in many ways.
68 Germanys Business Coaches
Business coaching can greatly improve
ones skills and chance of success,
whether you are an employee, a CEO, a
manager or looking for a new job. Find
out what Germanys business coaches
have to offer in this special theme.
74 Germanys Consulting Experts
The German consulting industry is
booming. Thus, we have handpicked
some of the countrys industry leaders in
this theme.
103 Switzerlands Successful Start-Ups
In this special theme, we take a closer
look at Switzerlands creative minds
and their innovative ideas. Discover the
inspiration behind the latest start-up
ventures and more.
108 Swiss Architects 2017
Switzerlands architectural heritage is as
diverse as it is impressive and goes far be-
58
Photo: digitalSTROM
yond geographical borders. Find out more
about great Swiss architects, their work
and their process in this special theme.
FEATURES
32 Restaurant of the Month, Austria
The Al Borgo in Vienna is a place where
you can feel at home while discovering
the manifold layers of Italian regional cui-
sine. It has certainly become an insider tip
for celebrities.
38 Star-Interview: Josephin Busch
Best known as playing the female lead
role in Udo Lindenbergs musical Hinterm
Horizont (Beyond the Horizon), German
actress Josephin Busch talks to Discover
Germany about playing in the theatre, her
love for Berlin and more.
40 Museum of the Month, Austria
The Museum der Moderne Salzburg is
our museum of the month. Enchanting
culture enthusiasts with outstanding ex-
hibitions and memorable sites, it is defi-
nitely worth a visit.
42 Destination of the Month, Germany
On around 204 square kilometres, Wolfs-
burg North Germanys underrated gem
presents itself as a young, modern city.
Unlike any other city of its size, Wolfsburg
offers numerous leisure activities for city
travellers.
46 Hotel of the Month, Germany
The Kameha Grand Bonn is our German
hotel of the month. Here, on the banks of
the Rhine river, green technology meets a
powerfully designed environment for busi-
ness and events.
48 Hotel of the Month, Austria
With its luxuriously designed rooms, a chic
atmosphere and a rooftop terrace offering
a spectacular view, the extravagant hotel
Discover Germany | Contents
LAME in the heart of Vienna is one of the
citys top addresses.
54 A piece of German Gemtlichkeit
In Germany, the beach chair has for
generations been an integral part of the
countrys seaside culture. From spring to
autumn, on Germanys shores, the motto
prevails My Strandkorb is my castle. Our
writer Wibke Carter finds out more.
REGULARS & COLUMNS
10 Dedicated to Design
Whether you are searching for a new, styl-
ish summer outfit or innovative design
ideas from the DACH region, be sure to
take a look at our design section.
32 Wine & Dine
This month, our wine & dine section has
all eyes on great wines, luxury hotels and
numerous excellent restaurants.
42 Travel
Whether you are searching for a great ho-
tel, your next holiday experience or even a
dream property abroad, we have got you
covered in the travel section.
56 Business
Our business section is filled with inno-
vative companies, coaches, consultants,
start-ups, architects, legal experts as well
as a beauty expert. Our columnist Gregor
Kleinknechts further takes on the inter-
esting topic of starting up in Brexit Britain.
128 Culture Calendar
Discover Germanys culture calendar is your
perfect guide to what not to miss in July.
132 Barbara Geier Column
This month, our columnist Barbara Geier
explores why more and more Germans
decide to stay at home during summer
holidays.
Issue 52 | July 2017 | 3
 Dear Reader,
As our columnist Barbara Geier found
out this month, more and more Germans
trade in their summer holidays abroad
with staying at home. In fact, according
to statistics by the German Tourist Board,
Discover Germany Ina Frank more than a third of Germans love to
Issue 52, July 2017 Jaime Heather Schwartz explore their own country during summer.
Jane Frahm No wonder, because Germany has a great
Published 07.2017 Jessica Holzhausen deal to offer from enchanting forests
ISSN 2051-7718 Marilena Stracke to impressive mountains and beautiful beaches. Impressive
Nadine Carstens mountains and forests can, of course, also be found in Austria and
Published by Silke Henkele Switzerland both also well worth a visit. To cater for your last-
Scan Magazine Ltd. Wibke Carter minute summer plans, we have thus handpicked luxurious hotels,
interesting destinations and great experiences to not miss in the
Print Cover Photo DACH region.
Liquid Graphic Ltd. Shutterstock
If you plan on visiting Germanys beautiful beaches this summer,
Executive Editor Sales & Key Account Managers you will most likely come across the famous Strandkorb that
Thomas Winther Emma Fabritius Nrregaard literally translates as beach basket. An integral part of the
Laura Hummer countrys seaside culture, our writer Wibke Carter wanted to
Creative Director Noura Draoui found out more about this exceptional item in her special feature
Mads E. Petersen Sophie Blecha about the Strandkorb.
Catriona Noble
Editor You might have already noticed, but on our cover this month is
Nane Steinhoff Publisher: none other than A-lister Michael Fassbender. It has been ten years
SCAN GROUP since he shot to fame and now the German-born actor, who grew
Copy-Editor Scan Magazine Ltd. up in Ireland, is a two-time Academy Award nominee and a British
Isa Hemphrey 15B Bell Yard Mews Independent Film Award winner amongst many others. In our
Bermondsey Street cover interview, he talks through some of his most famous roles
Graphic Designer London SE1 3YT over the past ten years, discusses how he gets into character, his
Mercedes Moulia United Kingdom journey to stardom and the people who helped him along the way.

Feature Writer Phone: +44 (0)870 933 0423 If youre not yet saturated with great celebrity stories, be sure
Thomas Schroers Fax: +44 (0)870 933 0421 to also take a look at our interview with actress Josephin Busch.
Best known as playing the female lead role in Udo Lindenbergs
Contributors Email: info@discovergermany.com musical Hinterm Horizont (Beyond the Horizon), she has recently
Barbara Geier released her first EP. In our interview, she talks about what it is
Cornelia Brelowski For further information please visit like to be Udo Lindenbergs all-purpose weapon, her time at the
Elisabeth Doehne www.discovergermany.com theatre and her love for Berlin.
Gregor Kleinknecht
Other inspiring topics in our July issue are great design items
Made in Germany, innovative start-up companies, Swiss
architects, interesting consultants and coaches, restaurant and
hotel tips, tasty wines and much more.

Sit back, relax and thanks for reading.

All rights reserved. Material contained in this

publication may not be reproduced, in whole or in part,
without prior permission of Scan Group a trading
name of Scan Magazine Ltd.

This magazine contains advertorials/promotional articles. Nane Steinhoff,

Editor

4 | Issue 52 | July 2017

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Discover Germany | Design | Fashion Finds

Fashion Finds
This month, from 4 to 7 July, Berlin will turn into an innovative melting pot for models, designers, visitors, buyers,
fashion bloggers, journalists and fashion industry professionals. We take a sneak peek at some of this years
Berlin Fashion Week designers who will showcase their products in the German capital.

EDITORS PICKS I PRESS IMAGES

The label Mariana Jungmann puts special emphasis on

sustainability, Renaissance lace and intricate details, while
mixing craftsmanship and technology something that should
be seen with ones own eyes at this years Berlin Fashion Week.
Dress POA.
www.marianajungmann.com

6 | Issue 52 | July 2017

 Discover Germany | Design | Fashion Finds

Another great look by Mariana

Jungmann is this blue jumpsuit with
lace details on the shoulders. The
labels looks are powerful and bold
but still very delicate. Jumpsuit 600.
www.marianajungmann.com

The Munich-based label holyGhost seeks to create

unconventional, yet contemporary, pieces that highlight the
strong and self-confident side of a woman. This gorgeous
kimono is made out of 100 per cent velvet. Approx. 331.
www.holyghost-fashion.com

The German eyewear label MYKITA will also be showcasing

their exceptional sunglasses at Berlin Fashion Week. This
eyecatcher is sure to grab everyones attention. Model
AMBUSH VERBAL 439.
www.mykita.com

Another fashion label from Munich is Antonia Zander. The

cashmere label produces the finest clothes for modern nomads
and sophisticated bohemians. Spice up any outfit with this
unconventional skirt. Approx. 828.
www.antoniazander.de

Issue 52 | July 2017 | 7

Discover Germany | Design | Waidzeit
The perfect combination - Waidblick
sunglasses, Wildfang jewellery and Waidzeit
wooden watch. Photo: Lukas Bezila
The timeless beauty of sustainable
watches and jewellery
When you think of watches or jewellery, you will probably think of precious metal
or sparkling diamonds. Think again as Austrian-based design company Waidzeit
is about to revolutionise the market for traditional watches and jewellery.
TEXT: SILKE HENKELE
When Elisabeth Hutegger sold the first
wooden watches in 2014 at a Christmas
market, she was overwhelmed by the pos-
itive reactions of her customers. We were
wholeheartedly convinced of the quality
and the design of our wooden watches;
and yet were entirely unprepared for the
huge amount of praise our watches re-
ceived. It encouraged us to take our busi-
ness further and to engage full-time in
the design and manufacture of wooden
high-quality watches, recounts Elisabeth,
who founded the company together with
her husband Christoph.
Waidzeit grew fast and today employs up
to six people.As a trained wood engineer,
I have an in-depth knowledge of wood.
The decision to process solely Austrian,
sustainably grown wood was thus made
consciously: I do think that Austrian wood
gives Waidzeits products the tradition-
al and timeless look of a masterpiece we
want our products to emanate; moreover,
8 | Issue 52 | July 2017
Watch Sissy & Max by Waidzeit. Photo: Christian Biemann
which we are sure to attract new retail
partners like high-end fashion boutiques.
People wearing products by Waidzeit feel a
close bond with nature. They like to wear
eye-catchers and they like the traditional
by only using sustainably grown lumber and timeless design of Waidzeits products.
and woven fabric made in Austria for our Are you one of them? Take a look at their
bracelets, we can also support our envi- produce online or in a shop and decide for
ronment, explains Christoph Hutegger. yourself. It is definitely worth a peek!
Waidzeits business partners are equal- www.waidzeit.eu (also for online orders)
ly consciously chosen. Our sales chan- info@waidzeit.at (for interested retailers)
nels clearly focus on retailers in Austria
and Germany. Even retailers in Switzer-
land, country of watchmakers par excel-
lence, are convinced of the quality of our
watches with Swiss movements and stock
Waidzeits products, boasts Hutegger.
The plans to bring his family-run design
business forward are promising.The pos-
itive feedback over the last three years has
encouraged us greatly. It helped us to grow
and to believe in our products. It also en-
couraged us to expand our product range,
which now also includes matching jewel-
lery and cool wooden glasses, Hutegger
praises the latest additions to Waidzeits Waidzeit - high-precision watches made from domestic
Austrian wood. Photo: Christian Biemann
collection, and adds: Valuable additions,
 Discover Germany | Design | Jeanslife

Jeanslife Quality Clothing

We love denim and blue hands
Enter the world of natural, genuine material and quality, breathe the smell of tanned
leather and untreated denim and listen to the music that transfers you back to a time
when jeans were predominately worn by blue-collar workers. At Jeanslife Quality
Clothing` you will only find the products of carefully selected manufactures from all
over the world that live up to the high standards of its owner, Roger Schmuki.

TEXT: JANE FRAHM I PHOTOS: STEFAN SCHAUFELBERGER

We recommend everyone to dial down
their consumerism and to concentrate
on small and sustainable manufacturers,
of which you know where and how the
production takes place, says Schmuki,
who has created a unique selection of den-
ims, jackets, shoes and shirts, all follow-
ing his philosophy of sustainability and
authenticity.
Not only does the cosy shop radiate
the atmosphere of someones home, the
customer service is also hearty and infor-
mal. When they can take their time and
are offered a coffee or a beer, even men
enjoy shopping, says Schmuki, with a This shop, located in Winterthur, transfers you back in time.
smile on his face. Jeanslifes staff offers a
professional and individual assistance for
all its clients and the shop even has an
in-house tailor, who customises the new
garments to perfection.
The shop is open from Monday
to Saturday and customers are wel-
come to simply come by or to make an
appointment, if desired. For further in-
formation and directions, check out their
website.
www.jeanslife.ch Mens department: the variety of denims and other goods.

GE
N
LE UIN
AT
HE E
R

A L L O W YO U R S E L F
SOME LUXURY

W W W . M AT T I O L I - B A G S . D E
Discover Germany | Design | Dedicated to Design

Dedicated to Design
Summer is here and we want you to go outside. Seriously, take a walk in the park, get to the beach, go on
holiday. But of course, you want to do it in style without missing out on the essentials. That is where we come in.
We have found five wonderful gadgets that will enable your perfect summer from a technological point of view.

BY: THOMAS SCHROERS

1. Talking about going to the beach. Kreafunks

1
aGLOW speaker will provide rich audio on warm sum-
mer evenings. Smartphones can be plugged in via
Bluetooth or cable. The battery lasts up to 20 hours
and the design is one of a kind, as the aGLOW is not
only a speaker but also a dimmable LED light. 112.
www.einrichten-design.de

2. A spontaneous evening of movies and music? Here

is a mini LED projector that will fit into your backpack.
Just set it up, plug in whatever device is available and
start screening your files in your friends living rooms or
your own backyard. 70. www.monsterzeug.de

3. We all know it, battery life is short these days. That

is why veho designed an exceptional mobile power-
bank, which will take care of all your devices. The best
thing? The Veho Pebble Aria is not only a charger,
but also a speaker able to play all of your music. 43.
www.radbag.de

4. To avoid the mobile charger, you should also be

prepared at home. For example, with the Konstantin
Slawinski cable box, which secures and hides all your
cables while your devices sit safely and visibly on its
elegant tray. 70. www.design-3000.de

5. Just a watch you might think, but Biegert & Funk

have created something more. A simple push illumi-
nates the words which show the time in the language

2
of your choice. It is a must-have for fans of unu-
sual watches and a clever design and for those not
wanting to lose track of time when outside. 605.
www.einrichten-design.de

4 5
10 | Issue 52 | July 2017

When lightness designs space the Connect Air collection.
The perfect combination of style,
quality and functionality
We use them daily and probably never give them second thought - bathroom
products. It comes in different forms, sizes and colours. Bonn-based company
Ideal Standard has brought the art of bathroom products to perfection.
TEXT: SILKE HENKELE I PHOTOS: IDEAL STANDARD
Ideal Standard is a modern company, but
deeply rooted within its over 115-year-old
history. Traditionally, the brand is first and
foremost associated with high-quality and
innovative design, technology and service.
Ideal Standards collaborations with fa-
mous international top designers as well
as the employment of the latest technol-
ogies allows the company to focus on in-
novative solutions for modern bathrooms
such as high-end ceramics, fittings, taps,
bath and shower tubs as well as bathroom
furniture and accessories.
Ideal Standard is widely known for the
singular quality and winning design of
its products. Our aim is the design of
timeless products products that still
look stylish and modern in 20 years time.
Ideal Standards very precise and high-
class workmanship guarantees the du-
rability of our products and increases
our customers well-being any day
and every day, elucidates Robin Levien,
award-winning British product designer
who is regularly teaming up with Ideal
Standard.
Series like Connect Air, Tonic II or DEA
are proof of this timeless design. They also
show that modern design, style and func-
tionality can be a very charming combina-
tion indeed. Always eager to embrace the
new, Ideal Standards most recent design
coup Ipalyss, which will be introduced
to the market this summer, is the result
of Leviens latest collaboration with Ideal
Standard. Ipalyss novel design elegantly
combines clean aesthetics and longevi-
ty and is thus a perfect fit for those with
sophisticated taste. The ultra-thin ma-
terial Diamatec is extremely durable a
fact which enabled the designers at Ideal
Standard to make the impossible possible:
Discover Germany | Design | Ideal Standard
Above: Beauty and strength: Ideal Standards
new Ipalyss vessel range.
to craft extremely robust and sturdy tub
walls that are still ultra-thin and thus ema-
nate effortless elegance. Available in three
variants and in five pastel colours and in
white, Ideal Standards latest design give
every bathroom a timeless, sophisticated
and, above all, aesthetic look.
Ideal Standards designs and products
have convinced buyers for a long time.
With new designs like the most recent
Ipalyss series, Ideal Standard is certain
to retain its position as one of the top
players on the international market for
bathroom accessories for a long time to
come indeed.
www.idealstandard.de
Ipalyss combines ultra-thin, high-end design aesthetics
with extreme durability.
Issue 52 | July 2017 | 11
Discover Germany | Design | xxx

Ovum gets rolled to its place.

Passion and authenticity

Steel sculptor and designer Andreas Reichlin is the inventor of the original Andreas, Reduction to the Essentials
Feuerring that opens up new and stylish possibilities for barbecuing. Discover is a principle that can be perceived in
Germany spoke to him, the Swiss architect Ivan Marty and photographer Sylvan your work. What is the importance of
Mller to find out more about their 2017 Feuerring campaign Form in Space. the reduction theme when you think of
the Feuerring?
TEXT: FEUERRING GMBH, NANE STEINHOFF I PHOTOS: DANIELA KIENZLER
Reichlin: The simpler a form, the bet-
Always looking for the perfect stage for Your style is infinitely reduced, ter it functions in various contexts. The
the Feuerring, Andreas Reichlin collabo- Sylvan. In our world, we are often Feuerring fits into historical space just as
rated with photographer Sylvan Mller at faced with abundance. How do you well as into modern architecture. Thats
the plants of the Kssnacht-based Isen- reduce abundance to get to the the result of reduction. It prevents catego-
schmid AG. Here, Reichlin and Mller essentials? risation into a particular era. The Feuerring
used the large production hall to move would have functioned 300 years ago and
around the heavy Feuerrings with cranes. Mller: By leaving out. I like to leave will still do so in 300 years time.
With the Feuerrings base material, they things out, as I can concentrate better
created steel spaces that show the Feuer- when Im not surrounded by things. The Ivan, which projects of yours display a
ring from new perspectives. The result are decision on what to leave out is intuitive. very reduced style?
beautifully reduced, wonderfully aesthetic You can achieve reduction by not decorat-
and creatively significant photographs that ing; consciously not embellishing, to give Marty: Reduction is a central theme, along
accompany the Feuerring in 2017 through- the subject the necessary weight and not with the materials used. Good architecture
out its Form in Space campaign. distract from it. functions from the point of view of material

12 | Issue 52 | July 2017

 Discover Germany | Design | Feuerring

authenticity and reduction to the essentials.
I can only counter our cluttered-up region
by reducing and restricting.
The Feuerring team perceives itself
as experts in scene-setting. Is there
such a thing as the perfect form-space
solution?
Marty: When I am in conversation with
customers, they often have a fixed idea. I
always take them back to the question of
wellbeing. My classic question: when you
enter a restaurant, where do you choose to
sit? In the middle of the room, or with your
back to the wall? This makes it clear to the
customer what is right for him.
we get from the Feuerring. The great thing
is that the sculptural aspect is appreciated
although you can live and work with it on
an everyday basis. Our product keeps its
promises and I find that wonderful.
Marty: The first piece of artwork in my
garden, and it means a lot to me. Particu-
larly as I was able to accompany you, An-
dreas, in your development. A Feuerring is
incorporated into the planning of all my
house designs. The Feuerring works as a
sculpture, but offers a whole lot more. I
would not part with it; it belongs in our
everyday life.
Mller: That is the difference; to me the
Feuerring is still more an art object and,
through my work, has really become a
sculpture. I am fascinated by the fact that,
in addition to the sculptural power, there
is evidently a whole lot more besides. Of
course I have already considered where the
Feuerring could go beside the vineyard
www.feuerring.ch

Reichlin: There are situations that are simply

right, where a sculpture has its true posi-
tion.You could put is somewhere else, but it
would speak a different language. I also be-
lieve that there are arrangements of which
one could globally say, they are right.

Mller: I prefer the word harmonious. I

Andreas Reichlin (left) with lithographer Georg Sidler
believe that there are harmonious arrange-
(middle) and Sylvan Mller (right). Production hall of Isenschmid AG.
ments. The question is: what mood do I
want to generate? Thats why I am fascinat-
ed by the dramatic composition, the story I
want to tell.

What is it that people perceive when

they look at your rooms, your forms,
your pictures?

Reichlin: To me, it is important to not only

see the work itself, but also the entire de-
velopment behind it. In the last work, you
just find the essence.
Sylvan Mller at work. Attention to detail: one of Reichlins hallmarks.

Marty: There are projects where everything

comes together like in a funnel. I believe
you feel it when you enter; you see how I
work.

Mller: My hope is that the story reaches

the viewer, without my presence being
felt. Of course I want people to feel my
passion for the topic. That also applies to
photography.

What is Feuerring for you?

Reichlin: We founded the company be-

Ivan Marty. Andreas Reichlin (left), Sylvan Mller (right).
cause we wanted to pass on the pleasure

Issue 52 | July 2017 | 13

Discover Germany | Design | estragon

Handle for the Alpa TC 12. estragon designs for VONSCHLOO.

estragon
Design versatility made in Switzerland
For any company, product design is one of the most important aspects of their ing, digitalisation of models and further
value chain. Especially in modern, crowded marketplaces, the right design makes methods influence the daily work. For
for a sharp, recognisable image that transcends the multitude of products. It is also Fleischhut and Lthy, new tools are val-
the key element for communicating a coherent sales story. Since its foundation, uable when applied properly. At the core
Swiss company estragon specialises in the collaborative development of specific, of our work is always the creative vision
sustainable product design. and the formal expression. In the end, it
is the quality and thorough execution that
TEXT: THOMAS SCHROERS | PHOTOS: ESTRAGON GMBH counts and is needed to give the design
and product the necessary sustainability
Design to us is a reduction to the essen- SIGG, SCOTT, Thule or VONSCHLOO. and longevity.
tials, the omission of redundant aspects. For SWIZA the two created a concept
Because omitting something and focussing for a new Swiss Knife, which possesses a www.estragon.ch
on a clear message takes courage, a cour- modern self-sufficient design, while also
age, that enables one to take a step into portraying the longstanding history of the
the unknown. When Dirk Fleischhut and brand. Daily we experience the different
Andr Lthy met during their studies at ways how our customers approach design
the Art Centre Europe, they did not know and that there are various approaches to
that some years later they would take such solving similar problems, explains Lthy.
a step themselves. After gaining experience At estragon, we are always confront-
in various design sectors, they reunited and ed with new questions and challenges,
combined their new insights with their ba- but that is where our creativity comes
sic creative disposition to form estragon. from. Creativity, which also enabled the
estragon team to develop a design DNA
Over the years, the name estragon, which and concept, both artistically and techni-
served as an abstract image for taste and cally, for an all new line of urban packs for
sense, has been filled with a diverse, ex- the brand Jack Wolfskin.
citing array of projects. Versatility and
diversity have been an initial goal for In the past 15 years, the design process has
Fleischhut and Lthy, who are working not changed as much as the tools have.
SWIZAs Swiss Knife.
with brands such as ASICS, Tissot, ALPA, Photo-realistic imaging, rapid prototyp-

14 | Issue 52 | July 2017

POWER GRAINS OR OILS: All our
quality products are produced using
gentle methods, are rich in valuable
nutrients, aromatic and vegan.

E lm ir a B e rt
a g n o li , C E O
of
L e m b e ro n a :

F o r p e o p le w h o
t
a p o s it iv e a t t it u a k e
d
t o w a r d s h e a lt h e

LEMBERONA: We offer our customers only

the best, all products are organic and vegan!
A FAMILY-RUN AUSTRIAN COMPANY WITH CLOSE TIES
TO DOMESTIC ORGANIC FARMERS! Fairtrade: Pearls of Samarkand

Organic quality and premium, regionally produced vegan foods are very much in demand. Lemberona, a family-run company based in
St. Plten, produces Bio-Leben foods in accordance with strict organic guidelines, sustainably and using only the finest raw materials
from Austrian farmers.
Healthy, pure, natural foods strengthen the immune system and help prevent illness. At the Elmira Health Centre, customers are
advised on all aspects of nutrition. Courses and seminars help people suffering from food intolerances, allergies, diabetes, high
cholesterol or excess weight to a healthier lifestyle.
Healthy nutrition instead of medicine, sensible choices for more quality of life!

LEMBERONA AT A GLANCE:
Traditional Austrian family-run company Gluten free products guarantee enjoyment and
100% added value in Austria quality of life
Production in accordance with strict organic and Vegan
FAIRTRADE guidelines Superfoods
Works with sustainable procedures using Green Level only genuine, GMO-free, clean foods
GreenEnergy

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www.lemberona.com
Vorgartenstrae 129 (U1, 11A, 11B)
1020 Vienna
Discover Germany | Special Theme | Made in Germany

Photo: Cosima Hanebeck, Bremen

SPECIAL THEME: MADE IN GERMANY

The history of Made in Germany

Despite widespread belief, the Made in Germany label is not a German invention. Instead, it was an idea of Great Britain.
Find out why on the next page and in the following special theme, we have also handpicked some great products and
innovative ideas Germany has brought forward recently.

Photo: Ute Thoma, FR, Photo: Bandelin, Berlin

Keller Brsten GmbH

16 | Issue 52 | July 2017

 Discover Germany | Special Theme | Made in Germany

Photo: Weingut Emrich-Schnleber

Did you know that the Made in Germa-
ny label is over 129 years old and that it
was an invention of Great Britain? To be
precise, Great Britain introduced the la-
bel in 1887 when it passed a law to force
foreign companies to make the origins of
their products clear. Apparently, sever-
al German companies had copied Brit-
ish products and Great Britain wanted
to keep German products from gaining
popularity in their country by labelling
exactly where they come from.
companies and their products sank to
an all-time low. Today, the reputation
for Germanys well-made products has
recovered and, especially in recent dec-
ades, companies take advantage of this.
For example, Volkswagen shows its roots
with the slogan Das Auto and Audi has
Photo: Sennheiser
Vorsprung durch Technik in their inter-
national advertising campaigns.
In the following special theme, find out
what other great products and innovative
ideas Germany has brought forward lately.
Photo: Misfortune Cookies

However, this clearly backfired as the

Made in Germany trademark is now
probably the most famous and appreciat-
ed one all over the world. This came about
as German products vastly improved
by the end of the 19th century. They
grew in popularity due to their meticu-
lous attention to detail and high-quality
workmanship.

During the First and Second World War,

Germanys economy was obviously dev-
astated and the reputation of German

Issue 52 | July 2017 | 17

 xxxxxxin Germany
Discover Germany | Special Theme | Made

The PXC 550 Wireless headphones.

Speak without interruption, listen

without interference
Sometimes you just need to get away from the hustle, bustle and stress of the With the PXC 550 Wireless headphones,
world for a little while. The latest generation of travel headphones helps to do just the audio specialist translated its innate
that with active noise cancellation that fades out the noisiness of airports, trains spirit of innovation to the travel segment,
and fellow passengers. Now it is time for an upgrade. Manufactured by German demonstrating Sennheisers expertise in
audio specialist Sennheiser, the PXC 550 Wireless offers high-performance ANC the field of noise-cancelling headsets. The
and up to 30 hours of battery life, while delivering the high-quality sound that the headphones are a particularly fitting solu-
company has become renowned for over the past seven decades. tion for discerning business travellers who
need their headphones to provide both an
TEXT: NANE STEINHOFF | PHOTOS: SENNHEISER oasis of calm, which allows perfect focus
in a busy environment, and a working tool
After its modest beginnings in a farmhouse to Sennheisers innovative drive. This is that allows travellers to stay connected on
in Wedemark near Hannover, Germany, in embodied by four research and develop- the move.
1945, Sennheiser set out to become one ment centres worldwide as well as by the
of the worlds leading manufacturers of Innovation Campus at the headquarters Just like the best business travel expe-
headphones, microphones and wireless in Wedemark. Opened in 2015, the facil- rience, Sennheisers PXC 550 Wireless
transmission systems. The family-owned ity is the audio industrys largest and most headphones anticipate the users every
company is driven by the vision to shape modern centre for innovation. In the same need, letting them travel in supreme wire-
the future of audio. Numerous patents and year, Sennheiser launched what is now less comfort and free from distractions.
awards including an Emmy, a Grammy, considered to be the best headphones The PXC 550 Wireless is built to meet the
a Scientific and Engineering Award of in the world the HE 1. Hand-crafted in demands of the frequent traveller with
the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Wedemark, the HE 1 delivers exceptional long-haul battery performance of up to
Sciences, and the Engineering Emmys spaciousness and a frequency range that 30 hours. Even with Sennheisers Noise-
Philo T. Farnsworth Award bear witness extends far beyond human hearing. Gard hybrid adaptive noise cancellation

18 | Issue 52 | July 2017

 Discover Germany | Special Theme | Made in Germany

engaged, the PXC 550 Wireless can span calls ensured by a beamforming array with cellation ensures uninterrupted listening
the world on a single charge. three microphones. No matter how noisy by seamlessly monitoring and adapting to
the environment, the PXC 550 Wireless ambient noise levels to provide the exact
A smart travel companion offers crystal-clear speech and gives trav- level of suppression needed whether on
Sennheisers PXC 550 Wireless offers a ellers an ideal private space for relaxing a plane, train or a noisy street.
smart travel experience that combines su- or staying focused on work. Sennheisers
preme ease of use with features that dis- NoiseGard hybrid adaptive noise can- www.sennheiser.com
cretely anticipate the needs of the user.
The intuitive, earcup-mounted touch
control panel and voice prompt system al-
lows for a convenient selection of settings,
while the PXC 550 Wireless can automat-
ically pause music and calls when the
headphones are taken off.

The enhanced user experience starts with

effortless NFC pairing for high-quality
Bluetooth audio transmission for pristine
sound, which can be tailored precisely ac-
cording to preference.

A personalised listening experience

with CapTune
The PXC 550 Wireless features four pre- The PXC 550 Wireless headphones.

sets for adjusting sound and one custo-

misable Director mode that can be tailored The Innovation Campus at the headquarters in Wedemark.
with ease using Sennheisers companion
app, CapTune. The audio specialists
first sound personalisation app has been
developed with the discerning head-
phone user in mind. Free to download for
Android and iOS smartphones, CapTune
is both a premium quality music player and
a powerful sound tuning app that gives us-
ers greater sonic control. Permitting precise
adjustments with the equaliser and featur-
ing the unique SoundCheck, with which
users can tune their musics sound by A/B-
testing different set-ups, CapTune allows The farmhouse in Wedemark near Hannover,
Germany, where Sennheiser was founded in 1945.
for a personalised listening experience.

Sennheiser quality for assured comfort

Class-leading ergonomics, lightweight
design and high-quality materials make
the sleek PXC 550 Wireless extremely
comfortable even for the longest of lis-
tening sessions. Its earpads have been
designed in accordance with Sennheisers
dedicated research into ear shape ergo-
nomics for supreme comfort.

Speak without interruption, listen

without interference
Staying connected on the move is easy
with the PXC 550 Wireless, with unrivalled
speech clarity for business and personal

Issue 52 | July 2017 | 19

Discover Germany | Special Theme | Made in Germany

Main image: Brstenfabrik Keller GmbH is one of the leading European

manufacturers of fine brushes. Photo: Olaf Herzog, Waldkirch

Keller Brsten GmbH

Top right: Men gentleline gift set. Photo: Jasmin Keller, TO
Right: The right brush for any type of hair and any purpose.
Photo: Ute Thoma, FR

Beautiful brushes with many purposes

One of the leading European manufacturers of fine brushes, Brstenfabrik Keller striking design. Each grooming set consists
GmbH offers its customers first-rate products for hair and body care, selected of two different hairbrushes, a face brush,
household brushes and complete ranges of pet and animal brushes quality made a handwashing brush and a beard brush.
in Germany. With these brushes you can perfectly im-
plement any styling and have a natural and
TEXT: ELISABETH DOEHNE I PHOTO COPYRIGHT: KELLER BRSTEN GMBH well-groomed look.

Who said that brushes have only one pur-
pose? Who said they only consist of one
material? Surely, a bristle brush is a great
staple for almost any kind of hair. The nat-
ural boar bristles are excellent at distrib-
uting your scalps natural oils down the
hair shaft, and are so flexible that they will
not break your hair. But vegan brushes are
also ideal for naturally caring for any type
of hair. Body brushes help exfoliate and
massage your skin, adding to the general
well being and body care.
Gentlemen and vegan brushes
This modern understanding of using
natural brushes for a variety of purpos-
es is characterised by Kellers series:
gentleline - an elegant, timeless and clas-
sic design made of pear wood, and rough-
line made of sturdy walnut and with a
Another innovative approach to mak-
ing brushes is the use of organic, vegan
materials. Vegan brushes with cellu-
lose-based bristles, the Vegafibre, are
made of unique, natural and re-newable
resources. All components (wood, wax
and bristle covering) are of natural ori-
gin and without animal components. The
antistatic vegan bristle cover is made of
innovative filaments and is produced in

20 | Issue 52 | July 2017


an exceptional cellulosic manufacturing
process. Algae essence has also been in-
corporated into the wellness brush.
Committed to tradition
The companys dedication and exper-
tise spans almost 150 years. In 1869, the
Brstenfabrik Keller GmbH was estab-
lished by Johann Baptist Keller and initially
specialised in the production of brush-
woods. Around 1920, the company addi-
tionally began to manufacture functional
brushes, selling them throughout Germany
and beyond. Today, the company continues
to cover the entire depth of production in
order to operate flexibly, sustainably, and to
maintain its focus on customer service.
This means that all manufacturing steps
from the processing of the raw wood
to the completed and printed brush are
done in-house. To this day, the compa-
ny has remained at its historical site in
Todtnau in the Black Forest. Jasmin and
Andreas Keller own and operate the fami-
ly business in the fifth generation.
Craftsmanship and care
In addition to our modern production
facilities, we also cultivate traditional
Discover Germany | Special Theme | Made in Germany
craftsmanship. To give an example, indi-
vidual pieces are manufactured using the
traditional hand-drawn method, explains
owner Jasmin Keller. Only a very small
number of experts still master the tech-
nique of hand drawing brushes, the so-
called Stirneinzugsbrsten. Made purely
by hand, the holes are bored and thick wild
boar bristles are drawn into the precious
wood body bundle after bundle. These ex-
clusive and rare brush exemplars are creat-
ed with expertise and passion.
Creative, flexible production
The company only uses select high-
quality raw materials in making a wide
variety of brushes. In fact, creativity and
flexibility are today required more than
ever. This is true, not only when it comes
to fulfilling market and customer wishes,
but also on the production side. Short-
er product life cycles mean that models
need to be developed ever faster, new
material deployed and new production
techniques mastered.
Ecological and social responsibility
The firms understanding of working
responsibly strikes a balance between
quality production and the preservation
of natural resources and life. Protection
of natural habitats, commitment to our
region and the highest quality are the
premises that form the basis of how we
manufacture our products, describes Jas-
min Keller. The responsible handling of
natural resources for us as manufacturers
of natural products forms an important
part of our corporate philosophy and
company policies.
The company has followed sustainable
principles for many years. We consider
ourselves to have a permanent ecologi-
cal, economic and social responsibility to
our customers, suppliers, our staff and our
region. As an FSC certified firm, we sup-
port the environmentally friendly, socially
responsible and economically viable use of
the worlds forests.
www.keller-buersten.de
info@keller-buersten.de
From top left:
The Vegafibre brush is one example of Kellers products using
high-quality raw materials. Photo: Jasmin Keller, TO
The history of Brstenfabrik Keller GmbH spans almost 150
years. Photo: Archivfoto
Hair and body care brushes.
Beautiful brushes for any type of hair.
Issue 52 | July 2017 | 21
Discover Germany | Special Theme | Made in Germany

Bad luck is your new stalker

Misfortune in a cookie,
or how to enjoy Schadenfreude
Teasingly evil quotes hidden in a biscuit as black as the night: Misfortune Cookies that someone else probably had the same
are the mischievous and high-quality equivalent to the well-known fortune cookies. a long time before me. It was therefore a
As a fun game during a party, a present or simply as highlight after a miserable day, surprise when he realised that something
Misfortune Cookies show once more how much fun dark humour can be. But that like Misfortune Cookies actually did not
a German of all people has invented them might come a surprise. exist.

TEXT: JESSICA HOLZHAUSEN I PHOTOS: MISFORTUNE COOKIES
Germans are well known for craftsman-
ship, their inventions and accuracy but
normally not so much for their wicked
sense of humour. That black humour in-
deed runs deep in some German innova-
tors might therefore come as a surprise.
With their Misfortune Cookies, called
Pechkeks in German, Pechkeks inventor
Andreas Pohl and his team have brought
gift items to the market that will leave
people reeling with laughter. This is sim-
ply so, because the darker and far better
designed version of the well-known Chi-
nese fortune cookies are wicked, naughty,
a little bit evil and very funny. There is no
better word to describe it than the Ger-
man word Schadenfreude: to laugh be-
cause some small evil has befallen some-
one who actually deserves it.
Quotes like these speak of the underlying
mind-set of Schadenfreude: Things will
get better. Sometime. Maybe. Or The
stars are in your favour Two light years
away. Or Your dreams will come true one of Germanys most popular TV quiz
the weird ones where youre naked and
everyone is laughing. And You will grow
old, wise and have to wear nappies.
Andreas Pohl first had the idea for
Misfortune Cookies at a dinner party
when he realised how boring normal for-
tune cookies could be even when read out
loud. I had this idea but was convinced
With a professional approach right from
the beginning, Pechkeks is a success sto-
ry that searches comparison. Not only
did customers like the new Misfortune
Cookies, the media also got wind of it.
In 2013, many German news outlets
published a story about Andreas Pohls
idea. The question of who invented the
Misfortune Cookies was even asked in
shows. Today, the Pechkeks brand still
sells 60 per cent of its products to the
German market, but also expanded and
successfully sells as far as Australia. More
than 1,800 shops from trendy gift shops
to delis and supermarkets currently
have Pechkeks products on offer, among
them household names like Harrods and
Selfridges in the UK.

22 | Issue 52 | July 2017


Starting out with cookies, Pechkeks has
widened its portfolio, selling various gifts
all with the same wicked sense of humour
as the original product. The most surpris-
ing part is that they address people from
completely different backgrounds, from
housewife to manager, from teenager
to elderly couple, from suburbia to the
dark alternative scene. We are the head-
quarters of black humour, says inventor
Andreas Pohl about the companys suc-
cess. That the quotes are not only dark,
but also intelligent, is a key success factor.
Most products like the cookies are
produced in Germany. Among them are
travel mugs telling coffee drinkers Do
everyone a favour and go back to bed
and You bring others happiness when
you leave. Anti-greeting cards, snot rags
Discover Germany | Special Theme | Made in Germany
(Just cry!) and hair combs (Your hairs
are numbered) are among the products
sold internationally. The range is wider
on the German market and expands con-
stantly. Every year, between five to ten
new products are brought to market ma-
turity.When compared with other prod-
ucts in the gift sector, we are complete-
ly different when it comes to style and
quality, explains Pohl. Every product is
made with a lot of love and is something
we would buy ourselves.
Today, more than 1,000 quotes already
exist for the cookies and Andreas Pohl
and his team work with professional text
experts to write new ones constantly.
But we also think about new ideas our-
selves when having a glass of wine or
a beer and even under the shower, says
Pohl. The quotes are all, in a way, more
than just teasing and are often a tiny bit
cruel and simply not nice. Nice is bor-
ing. People want authenticity, says Pohl,
and not only good luck charms or colour-
ful teddy bears with I love you hearts.
But there is a certain mark we do not
overstep, adds Andreas Pohl. We have
moral compass when it comes to how far
we can go. It should sting a bit, but not
severely hurt anyones feelings. So, what
makes Misfortune Cookies so popular
and outstanding? They are everything
but definitely not mainstream. And that
is something customers have realised,
says Andreas Pohl. Now, instead of con-
tinuing reading: Give up. At least for
today.
www.pech-keks.de/en
Issue 52 | July 2017 | 23
Discover Germany | Special Theme | Made in Germany

Take a bow:
Stange bow ties let you show your personal style
Family-owned Stange Berlin is the only self-manufacturer of bow ties in Germany pre-bound and simply adjusted. The com-
and was originally founded in 1934. From the colourful to the classic, Stange pany will gladly take on special requests for
Berlin offers a wealth of choice and a bow tie for every occasion. custom-made products as well.

TEXT: JAIME HEATHER SCHWARTZ I PHOTOS: BANDELIN, BERLIN
Providing some insight into what has kept
the business going, Jrgen Stange, second-
generation leader of Stange Berlin says:
Our product is an accessory for individ-
ualists and we have created a niche that
stands out from what is nowadays mass
produced in Asia.
Speaking about what he likes best about
the work, he says: I particularly enjoy our
cooperation with the Italian silk weavers,
and knowing we produce products that
fulfil not only our high-quality expecta-
tions, but those of our customers as well.
For the Stange family, bow ties are a sym-
bol of individuality and self-esteem and
they allow the wearer to express these
sentiments in their own personal way.
The bow tie can be viewed as the crown
of every outfit, explains Jrgen Stange. It
sets the tone and feel of any look, either
through its harmony with the rest of the
outfit or through its contrast. The two
most popular Stange bow ties are the profi
and the easy, both available in six different
forms. The former is manufactured in one
piece according to specific collar widths
and tied by the wearer, while the latter is
Although holding on to their traditions,
Stange Berlin has still moved into the
modern age. Besides visiting them at their
Berlin location, customers can browse
through their collection and purchase their
wares through their online shop. Speaking
on how the bow tie has maintained its al-
lure over time, Jrgen Stange says: The
world is changing. Often, its the small
things that have the biggest effect, and that
extends to very personal matters as well.
For those ready to set themselves apart
from the crowd, an elegant and eye-catch-
ing bow tie makes a bold statement.
www.stange.berlin

24 | Issue 52 | July 2017

 Discover Germany | Special Theme | Made in Germany

Knitwear to love
Soft, comfortable and long-lasting: with Leuchtfeuers high-quality knitwear made hats to socks, scarves and knitwear for
in Germany, one can feel the difference. The products of the long-established men and women.
family business are made of high-quality wool and wool blends representative
for the companys commitment to care and well-being. A history of success
Leuchtfeuer Strickwaren, as an authentic
TEXT: ELISABETH DOEHNE & NANE STEINHOFF | PHOTOS: COSIMA HANEBECK, BREMEN family business, has supplied knitwear to
customers, specialist retailers and textile
In our fast-paced world, where the slo- moisture management. It is also known industry partners for over half a century.
gan quantity over quality is omnipresent, for its mechanical self-cleaning abili- Founded by Adolf Grohmann in North
high-quality materials like wool increas- ty and thus does not get dirty as quick- Germany in 1956 and now run in the
ingly fall into oblivion. But the Lilienthal- ly. Further advantages of wool are that third generation, the company balanc-
based family business Leuchtfeuer seeks the fibre rarely creases, that it is of low es tradition and future goals. A strong
to fundamentally change this. After all, flammability and that it is, of course, very entrepreneurial spirit is combined with
wool is a natural fibre that provides unique comfortable to wear as the extremely fine extensive experience, quality craftsman-
properties that no synthetic fibre could fibres adapt to the skin. ship and innovative industrial process-
ever provide. For example, wool offers ide- es and technologies. From the yarn to
al temperature regulation during all activi- Therefore, it seems no wonder that wool the end product, the quality of goods is
ties, even when wet, and allows the wearer is the material of choice for Leuchtfeuers constantly monitored and brought to the
to move around comfortably. exceptional outdoor clothing perfect for market with a clear conscience. The yarns
work, exercise, relaxation and outdoor are subject to permanent quality control.
Wool absorbs up to 30 per cent of its activities. Influenced by North Germanys We have always had a strong focus on
own weight in moisture, such as sweat, maritime heritage and tough climate, the using and sourcing excellent sustainable
without actually feeling wet and still firms products are made to last. Its prod- materials and wools, explains CEO Olaf
keeping warm. It also does not start uct portfolio, which includes contempo- Grohmann.
to smell. Furthermore, wool is water- rary styles and timeless classics, ranges
repellent and possesses impressive from high-quality Troyer sweaters and www.leuchtfeuer-strickwaren.de

Issue 52 | July 2017 | 25

Discover Germany | Special Theme | Made in Germany

Frank Schnleber.

Sustainable winegrowing with a

centuries-old tradition
The first indication to viticulture in Monzingen can be dated back to the year of the vines, it was not too hot and there
778. The forefathers of winegrowers Schnleber have held onto their winegrowing were quite a few extensive rainfalls. To-
traditions since the middle of the 18th century. day, ten years later, the wines from this
site are already of great quality. Yet, it will
TEXT: INA FRANK | PHOTOS: WEINGUT EMRICH-SCHNLEBER take some more years before they show
enough depth to carry the name of the
The viticulture at VDP-Weingut Emrich- within a radius of only three kilometres. famous VDP.GROSSE LAGE (grand cru)
Schnleber is based on three principles: In total, Emrich-Schnlebers vineyard Halenberg on the label. These wines from
their wine offers true drinking pleasure; area has a size of 19 hectares. Riesling is Monzingen have been awarded with the
it is authentic, showing unflatteringly its their favourite variety and makes up more rating world class in the relevant wine
origin; and it has a distinctive character; than 85 per cent of the cultivation, along guides in Germany.
wines that are only good are not enough. with Grauburgunder, Weiburgunder and
These principles have been natural long Mller-Thurgau. So, what is the wine experts insider tip?
before they were actually formulated and My favourite Riesling is the Mineral,
set out in writing, as Frank Schnleber, In the past 25 years, recultivation has been Schnleber reveals.It has a strong, special
holder and winemaker of the estate, ex- an important issue to Emrich-Schnle- character and one can always discover new
plains. Our principles are based on our bers vineyards. Some of the best sites exciting aspects of it.
own experiences in drinking wine. Of in Monzingen were not used for decades
course, we try many different wines, but and then overgrew, Schnleber tells. We www.emrich-schoenleber.de
we always realise that we only empty the have been recultivating about five hectares
bottle if one can assume that that the prin- of these areas since the beginning of the Wine cellar.

ciples were fulfilled for that specific wine.
Thats why it has been always our aim to
produce these kind of wines.
The Emrich-Schnleber estate is located
in Monzingen, in the region of Nahe. The
grapes grow very closely to the winery,
1990s. In 2007, the steepest part of the
Halenberg vineyard was cleared and the
soil was loosened for the future young
grapevines. On the steep slope, the vines
had to be planted by hand. The hard work
paid off particularly in 2007, there were
optimal conditions for the quick growing

26 | Issue 52 | July 2017

hgschmitz.de

Gira X1 smart home mastered.

Interface design: schmitz Visuelle Kommunikation

Award interface design:

German Design Award 2017, winner in the Excellent Product Design Building category
Red Dot Award: Communication Design 2014, Best of Best for highest design quality
For more information: www.gira.com
Discover Germany | Cover Feature | Michael Fassbender

28 | Issue 52 | July 2017

 Discover Germany | Cover Feature | Michael Fassbender

Michael Fassbender
A decade on the
big screen
In this interview, Michael Fassbender talks through some of his most famous
roles over the past ten years, discusses how he gets into character, his journey to
stardom, the people who helped him along the way and more.

TEXT: JASON ADAMS/HOT FEATURES

Macbeth. Photo: DVD/Blu-ray
Macbeth, STUDIOCANAL
It has been ten years since Michael
Fassbender shot to fame on the big
screen in Hunger. The German-born
actor, who grew up in Killarney, Ireland,
was 30 when he got his big break in Steve
McQueens biopic of Irish republican
hunger-striker Bobby Sands. Now, at 40,
he is a two-time Academy Award nomi-
nee (12 Years a Slave, Steve Jobs), a SAG and
Critics Choice Award winner (Inglourious
Basterds) and a British Independent Film
Award winner (Shame, Hunger) to name
some of his many accolades.
He has also done his turn as a super-
hero playing Magneto in Marvels X-Men
movies and starred as Macbeth in Justin
Kurzels adaptation of the Shakespeare
play. Other films of note include play-
ing Carl Jung in A Dangerous Method
and donning a papier-mch head to
play a character inspired by comedy
musician Frank Sidebottom in Lenny
Abrahamsons Frank. In his latest pro-
ject, Sir Ridley Scotts Alien: Covenant, the
sequel to the legendary directors Alien
prequel Prometheus, he is seen reprising
his character of sentient android David.
So Michael, you shot to fame with
Hunger, which you made ten years ago,
and youve now made three movies
with Steve McQueen. How did you
find each other?
Michael Fassbender: Well, really I have to
thank a casting director called Gary Davy.
He called me in to meet Steve initially. Id
got the script for Hunger and I was very
sensitive to the material. My mum comes
from the north and I just wanted to make
sure that if we were making a film about
this topic that it was handled with the ut-
most respect.
Had you heard of Steve or did you know
his work before getting the script?
Michael Fassbender: No I didnt. Im pretty
ignorant when it comes to art, I have to

Issue 52 | July 2017 | 29

Discover Germany | Cover Feature | Michael Fassbender
say. Embarrassingly so. So Gary was like,
youve got to come in and meet this guy.
It wasnt like my door was getting knocked
down with offers or anything [laughs] so I
went in to meet Steve and I immediately
knew that I had to work with him, that he
was special.
What was it?
Michael Fassbender: It was just the way he
answered my questions. [] Just the way
he talked about people Steve has got
such an empathy for humanity. He loves
people in all their greatness and in their
flaws. It was palpable sitting there with
him. So, I left the room thinking that
was a good meeting. I was pretty happy.
Steve Jobs. Photo: DVD/Blu-ray Steve Jobs,
Universal Pictures
Song to Song: Faye (Rooney Mara), Cook (Michael Fassbender) and BV
(Ryan Gosling). Photo: STUDIOCANAL, 2016 Broad Green Pictures
30 | Issue 52 | July 2017
And then I later found out he hated me
[laughs].
Really? Why did he hate you?
Michael Fassbender: I dont know. I think
he said I was arrogant [laughs]. But I
dont understand. I guess I was maybe a
little defensive. I hadnt been working a
lot and I dont know how I came across in
the room. I thought I came across well but
that just goes to show how much I know.
But Gary again said to Steve, you need to
get him back in and let him read and do
the scene, this is the guy for the part. So
I came in and I did a section of the scene
between Bobby and the priest and then
they offered it to me after that.
Macbeth. Photo: DVD/Blu-ray Macbeth, STUDIOCANAL, Jonathan Olley/See-Saw Films
What is the difference between
making a big Hollywood sci-fi film
with someone like Sir Ridley Scott, or
an X-Men film, compared to the work
youve done with Steve McQueen?
Michael Fassbender: Patience [laughs].
Its a slow process. With Steve its fast.
Like Steve shot... I cant remember what
Hunger was because there was the break
in between and I went off for ten weeks
to lose the weight and then we came back
and shot the last ten days. But Shame was
shot in 25 days, that was tight but its not
unreasonable to think. But he shot 12 Years
a Slave in 35 days with one camera, which
is nuts. So, we work fast. Whereas on the
big productions you work slowly.
Kate Winslet and Michael Fassbender at Steve
Jobs closing night premiere, London Film Festival.
Photo: UPIMedia, 2015 Getty Images

Steve Jobs. Photo: DVD/Blu-ray Steve Jobs, Universal Pictures
There are some funny scenes in your
movies like Frank. We dont see you do
comedy enough. Do you like comedy?
Michael Fassbender: I do. I try and sort
of bring it in wherever I can. Like David
(Prometheus, Alien: Covenant) as well, there
are some fun moments there. Its some-
thing that I have to do more of.
Would you ever do a full-on comedy?
Michael Fassbender: Absolutely yeah. May-
be people dont think of me [laughs]. I
spoke to Seth Rogen about it. Wed met
before, I was a fan of his work. I think I
threw a blueberry at him actually, it was
at one of these dinners and he was at
the table across the way and so that was
our introduction and then I got talking to
him. So, when we were on Jobs he said, I
thought wed work together at some point
but I thought it would be in one of my
movies. So yeah, maybe at some point.
You choose characters that push
boundaries and sometimes you have to
do extreme things for your roles. Is that
the kind of thing you seek out?
Michael Fassbender: It appears so some-
times [laughs]. I dont know. I guess Ive
always wanted to learn as much as I can in
the time thats been afforded to me. And
the roles that have really attracted me have
Discover Germany | Cover Feature | Michael Fassbender
been perhaps in an area where I thought,
jeez, am I going to be able to pull it off?
or what sort of scope are these characters
in and is it something that I can find or
reach?
There was a lot of emotion between
you and Alicia Vikander in The Light
Between Two Oceans. How do you get
to that place when youre shooting an
emotional scene?
Michael Fassbender: It can be various dif-
ferent ways. Sometimes you try and re-
member something that was sad or trau-
matic or a time that really affected you
emotionally and try and sort of relive that.
Thats one way of doing it. But as the years
go on I find that just by relaxing, I try to
get to a place where Im physically and
mentally very relaxed and focussed. And
then its kind of strange because you sort
of exercise that muscle over many years
and go into that sort of state, it becomes
a trigger.
Finally, what was your most personal
experience with a character and most
difficult time as a character?
Michael Fassbender: Personal, I suppose
would be Hunger, just because I was so
hungry [laughs] in more ways than one. I
just wanted to get an opportunity to act.
I wanted to really have the opportunity to
do this for a living. I was 30 and I got this
opportunity to play a lead role in a film
and I really wanted to make sure I grabbed
that opportunity with both hands. And
then I also spent ten weeks by myself los-
ing the weight and it was a very solitary
experience and a very profound one. So
that whole story was very personal to me
as well. The fact that it was part of my his-
tory thats got to be the most personal. The
toughest one was Jobs.
Because of Aaron Sorkin [laughs]?
Michael Fassbender: [laughs] He wrote all
that stuff! No, it was just so dense and it
was such a mountain. Like I said earlier,
Im a slow learner. When the script arrived
for me and the opportunity to play the part
I really thought, this is not me, this should
be somebody else. Its a miscast scenario.
Then I spoke to my agent and my dad and
they were like, youve got to go for it. So, I
was like, okay, Ill go for it. But at the be-
ginning in rehearsals I was trying to find a
way to get out of the job. I remember tell-
ing my driver, if I put my arm in the door
and you slam it, it should cause a break
and should get me out of this gig. But I
thankfully didnt and I just went back to
my room and continued learning the lines.
But there were some daunting moments
in that process.
Thank you.
Issue 52 | July 2017 | 31
Discover Germany | Wine & Dine | Restaurant of the Month, Austria

Carlo Borelli, founder

and manager.

Stylish interior. Al Borgo team.

R E S TA U R A N T O F T H E M O N T H , A U S T R I A

Italian hospitality and regional delights

The Al Borgo in Vienna is a place where you can feel at home while discovering Eve events, Carlo Borelli and his chef
the manifold layers of Italian regional cuisine. With its stylish interior dominated Francesco co-create a constantly chang-
by hues between dark brown and cream, the combination of cuisine and style ing, season-oriented menu. They intro-
has long become an insider tip for celebrities. duce regional delicacies at the weekly
Settimanas and offer an impressive se-
TEXT: CORNELIA BRELOWSKI | PHOTOS: ADIN KRAJISNIK, AL BORGO lection of more than 100 wines, delicious
Grappas and, of course, their Limoncello.
As founder and manager Carlo Borelli delights of the Italian cuisine with passion
states, the main objective behind the and craftsmanship. The fresh preparation Borgo means a small spot of Italy,the pa-
Al Borgo was to create a restaurant where of food for them is a matter of course, as drone states, a place where people meet
high-level culinary standards are met with well as a changing menu. and the clocks are going a little slower.
an ambiance of harmony, reflecting the Being at Al Borgo therefore simply means
Italian focus on family and warmhearted Whether in the evening by candlelight or being at home.
hospitality. At the Al Borgo, both business during the day, the Al Borgo team around
guests and friends enjoy the same wel- Carlo Borelli pay attention to their guests www.alborgo.at
coming atmosphere. culinary wishes six days a week. The spe-
cial atmosphere of the Al Borgo is marked
After having assembled expertise and by its trademark mix of comfort and mod-
skills at world-renowned hotel chains and ern design. All friends of Italian cuisine re-
Viennese restaurants, Carlo Borelli brought ceive a hearty welcome at the restaurant,
the Al Borgo into being through his sheer amongst which are many celebrities from
love for the hospitality sector, as he likes TV and sports. Actor and frequent guest
to say. The well-hidden insider tip opened Alfons Haider is even known for occasion-
its doors in September 2010, located be- ally jumping in as waiter or sous chef,
tween the Stephansdom (St. Stephens for extra entertainment.
cathedral) and the city park, in one of
the most popular districts of Vienna. Chef Apart from organising regular live music
Open-air ambiance.
Francesco and his team create daily palatal concerts through to roaring New Years

32 | Issue 52 | July 2017

 Discover Germany | Wine & Dine | FRANKS, MERCADO and YOHM

FRANKS. Photo: Leonardo Ramirez Photography MERCADO. Photo: C.U.G.

Gastronomie BetriebsgmbH

YOHM. Photo: E.A.G.

GastronomiebetriebsgmbH

YOHM. Photo: E.A.G.

GastronomiebetriebsgmbH

FRANKS. Photo: Leonardo Ramirez Photography

20 years of culinary pleasures in Vienna

The world of international cuisine has become big indeed; various types of and then cooked to perfection in a pizza
European, Asian, American or countless other types of food are omnipresent. oven fired with beech wood, says Piber,
Three exceptional restaurants in Vienna are exemplary for this trend. explaining the uniqueness of restaurants
FRANKS, MERCADO and YOHM.
TEXT: SILKE HENKELE
While all three restaurants focus on differ-
Inspired by extensive travels to many ing the beginnings and the ensuing suc- ent cuisines, their food shares an undis-
parts of the world and discontented with cess of his first restaurant. putedly outstanding and uncompromising
the somewhat bleak scarceness of menus quality that has been a convincing argu-
listing fresh ingredients in Vienna, Klaus Other restaurants followed. The menu ment for gourmets and epicures alike for
Piber, owner of a variety of restaurants, es- at YOHM, for example, lists dishes that more than 20 years. My team and I, we
tablished FRANKS American Bar & Res- reinterpret Asian cuisine, while at res- have always set out to delight our guests
taurant & Music in Viennas first district taurant MERCADO guests are offered with an ever-changing offer of delicious
more than 20 years ago. Latin-American-inspired dishes with a and exceptional flavours in a professional
light and aromatic twist. The concepts yet personal atmosphere. So we are par-
Back then, McDonalds or Pizza Hut of these three restaurants cut their very ticularly proud that even after 20 years we
were representative of American food in own paths. We do not intend to present are still able to surprise our guests taste
Vienna. Fascinated by the immense variety our guests with authentic international buds with fresh sensations, exults Piber.
of American cuisine, I wanted to change cuisine but with an attractive approach
this very limited and somewhat biased that reinterprets and underlines the A visit to either FRANKS, YOHM or
perception here at home. FRANKS, the multitude of flavours of the Asian and MERCADO is certain to convince you and
result of my considerations, definitely hit Latin-American cuisine. At FRANKS, we your palate - the choice is all yours!
a mark and developed into what you may also focus on the manner of preparation.
call a hotspot for dry-aged Austrian and We are the only restaurant who dry-ages www.franks.at
wet-aged American steaks, popular with steaks in an ageing chamber on location. www.mercado.at
both locals and visitors, says Piber, recall- Our meat is seared on a lava stone grill www.yohm.at

Issue 52 | July 2017 | 33

 TOP LUXURY HOTEL Golfers in front of Schlosshotel Kronberg.

Very British
Schlosshotel Kronberg
Built in 1889 by Victoria Empress Frederick in English Tudor style, the castle design. Beds of the highest quality, marble
Schloss Friedrichshof became a castle hotel of the first order in 1954 and has bathrooms and luxurious care products
impressed with its tradition, imperial atmosphere and special British flair since. round off the hotels luxurious offerings.
Today, the breathtaking five-star superior hotel, owned by the family foundation Additionally, numerous antiques and
of the Landgrave and Princess of Hesse, is an established name in the high-end artworks of Empress Victoria Friedrich
international hotel scene and poses as a cosmopolitan place where tradition can be found in the salons and suites.
meets modernity. Emperor Wilhelm IIs desk, for example,
still stands in the royal suite.
TEXT: NANE STEINHOFF | PHOTOS: SCHLOSSHOTEL KRONBERG
Furthermore, the hotels highest levels im-
In the car, the romantic castle hotel can be unique, historic royal suite are individual- press with great views of Frankfurts sky-
reached in only a few minutes from Frank- ly furnished and fulfil the guests premium line and guests that book a balcony room
furts city centre or the international airport. demands. Canopy beds, Toile-de-Jouy can not only enjoy a panoramic view of
Idyllically situated in a listed park on the wallpapers, open fireplaces or precious
outskirts of Kronberg in the Taunus moun- furniture bestow an imperial ambiance
tains, the hotel poses as the perfect place for upon each room. In recent years, exten-
private vacations and business trips alike. sive reconstruction and modernisation
measures were conducted to implement
Live like an empress the highest technical, design and comfort
The Schlosshotel Kronberg counts to- standards. Princess Floria of Hesse and the
wards Germanys most exceptional castle British interior designer Nina Campbell
hotels not least because of its 62 mag- were responsible for the magnificent in-
nificent rooms and suites. Each one of the terior design. Exclusive fabrics, cushions
eight luxurious single rooms, 42 fantastic and carpets, as well as holistic colour, pat-
double rooms, 11 exclusive suites and the tern and room concepts define the interior

34 | Issue 52 | July 2017


Kronberg castle, but can also look over the
hotels extensive castle gardens. Speaking
of castle gardens: designed as an English
landscape garden and equipped with a
historical rose field, it poses as the perfect
backdrop for relaxation. Why not stroll
down to the Empress grotto, an idyllic
place in the castle gardens where Victoria
Empress Frederick used to have her af-
ternoon tea?
Exclusive pleasures
Also embedded into the 58-hectare-large,
listed park complex of Schlosshotel
Kronberg is one of Europes most beau-
tiful 18-hole golf courses. The holes with
steep slopes, undulating fairways, small
creeks and doglegs even challenge golf-
ers with low handicaps. No wonder the
golf course is a chosen venue for many
notable tournaments and golf events.
After an eventful game of golf, one should
not miss Schlosshotel Kronbergs culi-
nary highlights. The culinary team cooks
a French-inspired cuisine, while putting
special emphasis on seasonal products
from the region. Besides serving tasty
classical dishes in the menus, guests can
Golfing at Schlosshotel Kronberg.
Summer terrace.
Discover Germany | Wine & Dine | Top Luxury Hotel
also look forward to new, modern crea-
tions, a vast variety of fine international
wines, as well as own wines from Prince
of Hesses winery that are served on the
castle terrace in summer. Here, one can
enjoy a magnificent view of the park.
However, eating inside in one of Hesses
most beautiful saloons is a pleasure itself.
At the time of Victoria Empress Freder-
ick, royal personalities already dined here
and today, small details like the Prussian
emblem on the mantel or the Gothic ceil-
ings English rose remind guests of the
halls impressive past.
Furthermore, the Victoria Lounge on the
castle terrace invites guests for extensive
relaxation in summer, whether for lunch,
for small delicacies during sunset or sim-
ply for a refreshing drink in between. In
Jimmys Bar, on the other hand, heavy
leather armchairs, wood-panelled walls
and piano live music give guests the
feeling of a classic British bar. Here, one
can indulge in creative cocktail creations
like the Kaiser Friedrich Cocktail with
homemade thyme vodka, a wide range of
whiskeys and gins, an exquisite selection
Blauer Salon.
of cigars and a tasty menu with small
dishes.
Globally distinguished tradition and
comfort
From generation to generation, the family
of Hesse succeeded in modernising the
castle without losing its classical flair and
tradition. This commitment paid off: since
2009, the five-star superior hotel has been
member of the Small Luxury Hotels of
the World and was awarded the World
Travel Award as Germanys best resort
hotel for the fourth time in 2015. In 2016,
the Schlosshotel Kronberg was named
Germanys Luxury Cultural Retreat at the
World Luxury Hotel Awards and it was
honoured as the Hotel of the Year 2017 by
the Schlemmer Atlas.
www.schlosshotel-kronberg.com
Dream weddings and business meetings
The magnificent castle hotel also poses as the
perfect backdrop for a variety of events, weddings,
private parties or business meetings. For the latter,
eight modern conference rooms for up to 350 peo-
ple can be found in the historical castle building.
Wedding in the Grner Salon
Issue 52 | July 2017 | 35
Discover Germany | Wine & Dine | Bataillard

Successful marketing for wine brands

The wine market is characterised by an abundance of many different wines. Stefan Keller, CEO of Bataillard AG, proud-
Swiss-based wine merchant and marketer specialist Bataillard offers an inspiring ly explaining Bataillards beginnings.
concept for the sales and distribution of high-quality wine that makes the
company a trustworthy partner for wine shops, retailers, gastronomy and end More than a wine merchant
consumers alike. To call Bataillard a wine merchant is an
understatement and describes only one
TEXT: SILKE HENKELE I PHOTOS: BATAILLARD aspect of its business. Bataillard is much
more than a wine merchant. While we
Wine merchant Bataillard can look back on international exquisite wine brands. Our focus on the import and distribution of
a long and colourful history. What start- history is a notable one indeed. It is marked high-quality wine brands mainly from
ed as an importer and exporter for wheat by determination, innovation, and quality Switzerland (Provins, Delea), Italy (Senza
back in the 16th century, has today become orientation and constitutes the fundament Parole, Villa Sandi), Spain (Mariposa,
a successful wine merchant of Swiss and of what Bataillard represents today, says Contino), France (Guigal, Jacquart), Chile

36 | Issue 52 | July 2017

 Discover Germany | Wine & Dine | Bataillard

(Montes) and Argentina (Kaiken) and
many other countries, our standards and
visions are more complex and go beyond
this focus. We market international wine
brands as well as our own brands through
our B2B business partners. One of the big
differences though is the fact that we
are actively involved in the marketing of
these brands, says Keller, outlining Bat-
aillards concept.
Bataillard, the marketing expert
Bataillard is people-centred and family-
owned and both transcends into the
companys atmosphere; our decisions are
marked by long-term vision rather than
short-sighted profit making, which gives
our business a very strong fundament. We
are very lucky to have a team that shares
and supports this vision. It is thus 100 per
cent committed to its work and the par-
ticular familial atmosphere we strongly
encourage here at Bataillard, Keller elab-
orates. Ultimately Baillards focus is al-
ways on the end consumer, and the close
cooperation with our B2B partners serves
to that end.
gies ranging from the taste of a product, its
label, marketing campaigns and similar,
Keller further elucidates.
Bataillard, the innovator
Its future and people-oriented concept
as well as its highly dedicated, service-
oriented staff has made Bataillard one of
the most important wine merchants in
Switzerland. Both factors have also made
sure that while the overall consumption of
wine in Switzerland has recently dropped
by two litres per person, Bataillard has still
managed to grow by an impressive three
per cent. This figure clearly supports Bat-
aillards approach, which is based on expe-
rience, innovation and a close connection
with its business partners.
While we are aware that the concept of
a densely supported partnership network
is a novelty on the wine market, Bataillard
does not grow tired of looking for (and
finding) other areas to introduce valuable
innovations. We have, for example, noticed
that there are certain areas of public life
that seem inaccessible for the consump-
tion of wine. This is particularly true for
business areas that for, a multitude of rea-
sons, are sensitive to weight, handling, or
security, as for example in-flight catering.
They have therefore launched a set of PET-
packaged wine (filled on-site in Batail-
lards own state-of-the-art bottling fa-
cility), which is successfully being tested
by a number of airlines. As a service to
our customers, we have also initiated the
improvement of the digitalisation of our
offers and services, which will be online
soon, says Keller.
Merchants are only very rarely actively in-
volved in the marketing of their products,
and Bataillard is a very good example of
how this type of marketing can be lifted to
a higher level.
www.bataillard.ch

While it may be unusual to discuss and

draft marketing concepts with ones cus-
tomers, Bataillard sees itself in the role
of a service provider. We consider our
wines to be marketable brands and our
business partners to be a valuable link
to the end-consumer: We have 110 peo-
ple working at Bataillard, and 45 of them
are employed in marketing/sales-related
positions. So, nearly half of our staff are
involved in the marketing of our brands
and the support of our partners a
number that clearly shows our firm be-
lief in the importance of a consumer-
oriented cooperation with our business al-
lies, says Keller and adds, a cooperation,
by the way, which we are currently looking
to expand to an international level.

In order to have a well-grounded know-

ledge of the end-consumers demands,
Bataillard has initiated a close cooperation
with trend agencies that regularly supply
Bataillard with up-to-date trend studies.
Thanks to these studies, we are in a posi-
tion to evaluate current and future trends
and thus in corporation with our business
partners develop holistic marketing strate-

Issue 52 | July 2017 | 37

38 | Issue 52 | July 2017

Josephin Busch
Udo Lindenbergs all-purpose
weapon
Best known as playing the female lead role in Udo Lindenbergs musical Hinterm
Horizont (Beyond the Horizon), German actress Josephin Busch has just released
her first EP. She talks to Discover Germany about playing in the theatre, her music,
the love for Berlin and much more.
TEXT: NANE STEINHOFF | PHOTO: ALEXANDER HRBE
You are especially known as Udo
Lindenbergs all-purpose weapon as
you do concerts with him, while also
playing the lead role in his musical
Hinterm Horizont. What is it like to
work with a star like him?
J. Busch: Its incredible to work with Udo
because he meets each person eye-to-eye
and gives one every trust in the world so
that you can thrive and go openly and
courageously on stage alongside him.
In April, you released your first EP
Jetzt (Now). What is the song about?
J. Busch: The song is about the fact that
many of lifes beautiful moments often
just flash by. I sometimes have the feel-
ing that I quickly want to turn on the
slow-motion apparatus to point out to
myself that the moment that happens
now will be gone again soon. You cant
hold onto anything in life, you can just
enjoy the moment. Thats what the song
is about. What time is it? It doesnt mat-
ter. Theres no yesterday, no tomorrow,
only now!
What is the greatest thing about
German music and German lyrics?
Discover Germany | Star Interview | Josephin Busch
J. Busch: I have my surroundings here, my
J. Busch: German music simply touches
me much more directly because I feel
each word, each pun and each emotion
directly as a story and because I under-
stand everything without the need for
translation. Its very personal to write in
German. You have to watch out that the
texts are very direct as they dont forgive
any carelessness. When artists like Udo
or Marteria, who Im a big fan of, achieve
this, then this is simply the coolest.
At the moment, one can also see you
as detective superintendent Lucy Elbe
in the sixth season of Letzte Spur Ber-
lin. What is exciting about this role?
J. Busch: I like how Lucy grows in herself
and more and more finds into her job,
while always keeping true to herself. She
comes from humble conditions, is a true
Berliner and always gives her best in her
job, as well as in life.
If you had to decide between singing
or acting? What would you prefer?
J. Busch: I cant decide. Decision-making is
not one of my strengths. For me, making
this decision would be the same as aban-
doning one of my senses or one of my legs.
You were born in Berlin and still
live in the city today. Why do you
love Berlin so much? Could you ever
imagine moving away?
roots. I can hardly imagine giving all this
up. I like everything that this city breathes.
There ought to happen something rather
extreme to entice me away from Berlin.
What else is planned for this year?
What can we look forward to?
J. Busch: This year will already be quite
taken up by Letzte Spur Berlin and my mu-
sic. At Udos tour in May, I supported him
as a guest here and there. I want to play
my own songs live this year and, since
June, we also shoot the seventh season
of Letzte Spur Berlin. Lets see if a great
project comes up, I will be somehow able
to do it as well [smiles].
Is there an absolute dream role that
you would love to get? What other
dreams and wishes does Josephin
Busch have?
J. Busch: I am still keen on many exciting
roles that are yet to come. I obviously still
dont know them as they still get devel-
oped, but I would love to try everything
out. I love love stories, dramas or histor-
ical movies, but a comedy would also re-
ally interest me. And I also want to stick
with the theatre... yes, yes turn on the
slow-motion apparatus!
Issue 52 | July 2017 | 39
Discover Germany | Culture | Museum of the Month, Austria

Left: Museum der Moderne Salzburg,

MUSEUM OF THE MONTH, AUSTRIA Mnchsberg. Photo: Marc Haader

Centre: Museum der Moderne Salzburg,
Rupertinum. Photo: Marc Haader

The Museum der Moderne Salzburg

Right: Sabine Breitwieser, director of
Museum der Moderne Salzburg.
Photo: Maria Ziegelbck
Bottom: William Kentridge More Sweetly
Play the Dance, 2015, exhibit at the EYE

Outstanding exhibitions and Filmmuseum, Amsterdam, 2015.

Photo: Studio Hans Wilschut Courtesy
William Kentridge, Marian Goodman Gallery,
Goodman Gallery and Lia Rumma Gallery

memorable sites
Salzburg, famous for wunderkind Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and the Salzburg South African artist William Kentridge,
Festival, has so much more to offer. Museums come to mind in particular the which comprises of immersive multime-
Museum der Moderne Salzburg. dia installations on view on the premises
on the Mnchsberg as well as an over-
TEXT: SILKE HENKELE | PHOTOS: MUSEUM DER MODERNE SALZBURG view of his work for the theatre and op-
era stage in the Rupertinum. The latter is
The museum, housed in a newly built graphy, paintings as well as sculptures, especially exciting because it shows the
structure right on top of Salzburgs needed to be widened to also include artists developing work of his production
Mnchsberg and in the Rupertinum in architecture, dance and performance art of Alban Bergs Wozzeck, an opera that
the centre of Salzburgs quaint old town, and, in particular, cross-border art forms. is going to be performed at this years
is widely celebrated for its striking prem- This programme was enthusiastically wel- Salzburger Festspiele an event that is
ises. In recent years, it has held impressive comed by the public and put the Museum certain to underline the museums status
solo exhibitions by female artists in par- der Moderne Salzburg on the internation- as a major venue and an innovative hot-
ticular and groundbreaking exhibitions of al map of highly acclaimed museums. spot for contemporary art.
modern and contemporary art in general.
Some of the most distinguished works on The museums concept embraces a multi- www.museumdermoderne.at/en
view are part of the General Foundation tude of national and international art-
Collection, which agreed to permanently ists and likewise maintains collabora-
loan its top-class collection of contempo- tions with Austrian as well as overseas
rary art to the museum. institutions; a characteristic that makes
the Museum der Moderne Salzburg one
This marks an important collaboration in- of the most singular in Austria. One of
itiated by Sabine Breitwieser who, when the museums upcoming exhibitions is
she became director of the museum, a novel cooperation with the Salzburger
strongly felt that with an on-going, ever- Festspiele(Salzburg Festival). In summer,
developing artistic scene, the museums the Museum der Moderne Salzburg is
focus on classic media like prints, photo- going to host an exhibition of works by

40 | Issue 52 | July 2017

Bye-bye Grossstadtdschungel.
Rein in die Natur.
Ein wilder Natur- und Tierpark fr Entdecker.
Nur 40 Minuten von Zrich entfernt und tglich
fr Sie geffnet.
 D E S T I N AT I O N O F T H E M O N T H , G E R M A N Y The Autostadts summer festival Cirque Nouveau:
Urbanatix on the harbour stage. Photo: Matthias Leitzke

Wolfsburg
North Germanys underrated gem
On around 204 square kilometres, Wolfsburg presents itself as a young, modern with around 10,000 employees, the com-
city. Unlike any other city of its size, Wolfsburg offers numerous great leisure panys research and development depart-
activities for city travellers who want to spend a couple of days here. ment is Europes largest extramural inno-
vation centre.
TEXT: NANE STEINHOFF
One great experience for the entire fam-
Nestled between the Harz Mountains in Of course, with the rise of the Volkswagen ily is a visit to Volkswagens production
the south and the Lneburg Heath in the production plant, Wolfsburgs population facilities during the week. Or why not
north-west, Wolfsburg has a great deal to also grew. While 22,000 people called head to the architecturally impressive,
offer. Whether you want to spend a relax- Wolfsburg their home in 1948, today, 28-hectare-large park and laguna land-
ing day in nature, visit historic alleys, go around 125,400 people live in Wolfsburg. scape, the Autostadt, where Volkswagens
on a shopping spree, see state-of-the- With the increase of inhabitants, the num- brands architecturally and artistically
art museums or indulge in great culi- ber of tourists has also steadily grown. At stage their respective brand philosophy
nary treats, Lower Saxonys fifth-largest just over 70 years old, it impresses with in several pavilions? Furthermore, with
city has it all and most attractions can numerous attractions that are unique in the multi-brand car museum ZeitHaus,
be reached by foot from the city centres Germany. many seasonal shows, interesting theme-
main station. Known internationally based exhibitions and numerous ad-
for its Volkswagen factory that became Cars and currywurst venture attractions, the Autostadt offers
the worlds largest industrial enterprise First of all, when we talk about Wolfsburg, many highlights throughout the year. For
and automotive plant under one roof, we have to talk about Europes largest auto- example, from 12 July to 20 August 2017,
Wolfsburgs visitors can also look forward motive group, Volkswagen. Here, in one the CIRQUE NOUVEAU, the Autostadts
to an exciting insight into the world of of the worlds largest plants, more than summer festival, will attract many cul-
automobile production. 70,000 people are employed. Furthermore, ture enthusiasts. The six-week festival

42 | Issue 52 | July 2017

 Discover Germany | Travel | Destination of the Month, Germany

programme will feature more than 300

breathtaking shows with artists and per-
formers from around the world. Children,
teenagers and adults alike can look for-
ward to introductory courses, workshops,
as well as a hands-on circus. Additionally,
the Park World and the Water World will
invite visitors to discover, take part and
enjoy. After an eventful day at this exciting
theme park, one should not miss one of
Volkswagens most popular originals: the
currywurst. Together with the companys
own curry ketchup, it is a favourite meal in
the plant and the city centre alike. In 2015,
Volkswagen produced 7.2 million sausages
in its in-house abattoir thus selling even
more sausages than Volkswagen cars. .

Enchanting history meets innovation

Futuristic high-tech architecture and
light-flooded building structures or old
churches and historic buildings: you can
find all of this in Wolfsburg. While the mod- Summer in the Autostadt,
ern city centre offers an abundance of great Cool Summer Island.
Photo: Waldemar Salesski
shopping opportunities and impressive,

Wolfsburg Castle and the Wake Park for water skiing. Photo: WMG Wolfsburg

Issue 52 | July 2017 | 43

Discover Germany | Travel | Destination of the Month, Germany
View from THE VIEW skybar onto the Volkswagen factory
and the Autostadt. Photo: Janina Snatzke
contemporary architecture, history enthu-
siasts will also find their fair share of treats
as small towns that are over 1,000 years
old are as part of Wolfsburg as modern,
architectural masterpieces. The moated
castle in Neuhaus, the artisan street in
Vorsfelde or Fallerslebens old town will
take visitors back to long-gone periods.
Fallersleben, for example, is the birth place
of Hoffmann von Fallersleben, the writer
of the German national anthem. The town
itself impresses with a beautiful old town
with numerous half-timbered houses and
a castle from the 16th century in which
a museum can be found. After an inter-
esting day trip, one can relax in the Altes
Brauhaus (old brewery) where beer is still
brewed to this day.
Another great way to spend a day in
Wolfsburg is to explore the many interest-
ing museums. Art enthusiasts should defi-
nitely not miss Wolfsburgs art museum.
The large exhibition hall gets an architec-
tural overhaul from project to project and
serves as the perfect shell for showcasing
international contemporary art, themat-
ic exhibitions or elaborate artist projects.
Visitors can expect four changing exhi-
bitions per year that also integrate works
of the museums own extensive collec-
44 | Issue 52 | July 2017
tion. Until 3 September 2017, Hans op
de Beecks Out of the Ordinary exhibition
can be admired here. In the phaeno, on
the other hand, children and adults can
learn about the world of natural scienc-
es. At over 350 experimentation stations,
in visitor laboratories, the idea forum or
the science theatre, one can vividly expe-
rience astounding facts from the world of
science and technology. A current exhi-
bition, called Manometer! Die unglaubliche
Ausstellung ber deinen Krper will run until
11 February 2018 and explores the human
body. The phaeno was designed by the
Pritzker award-winning architect Zaha Ha-
did and, according to experts, counts toward
the worlds 12 most important, modern
buildings.
Buildings that are just as impressive: the
Kulturhaus, the Stephanus Churchs
community centre and the Heilig-Geist
Church. They were all designed by the
world-famous Finnish architect Alvar
Aalto and they describe Aaltos most im-
portant projects outside of his home coun-
try of Finland. Another architectural sight
that should not be missed is famous archi-
tect Hans Scharouns theatre the only
theatre that this important representative
of modern architecture ever built.
Delicacies and designer fashion
Of course, visitors can also look forward
to an abundance of great restaurants, cute
cafs, relaxing bars or convivial beer gar-
dens in Wolfsburg. Those that want to try
a first-class menu should head to Aqua
restaurant where Sven Elverfeld (three
Michelin stars) cooks on the highest level.
After strengthening oneself with great food
and tasty drinks, one should visit the de-
signer outlets Wolfsburg Germanys first
inner-city outlet centre. Here, visitors can
find over 70 international brands at signifi-
cantly reduced prices. On 4 August, visitors
can look forward to late-night shopping
until 10pm and on 15 and 18 August, live
music will enlighten ones shopping trip
from 7pm onwards. If this shopping expe-
rience is not yet enough, one can conven-
iently walk towards the Porsche Street in
the heart of Wolfsburg from here, where
boutiques, numerous shops and the City-
Galerie mall with over 100 shops can be
found.
Get active
Sport enthusiasts, on the other hand,
should visit the Volkswagen Arena VfL
Wolfsburgs home ground. The team has
been in the Bundesliga for 20 years and
its womens team is also very successful.
 Discover Germany | Travel | Destination of the Month, Germany

With the Grizzlys, who are at home at the The designer outlets Wolfsburg. Photo: designer outlets Wolfsburg
Eis Arena, Wolfsburg also has an ice hock-
ey team in Germanys highest ice hockey
division (DEL). Another fun-packed ac-
tivity for the entire family can be found at
Wolfsburgs Allersee: the high rope course
monkeyman. Here, one can push ones
boundaries on an obstacle course that
comprises numerous exciting stations that
must be overcome in heights between four
and 13 metres.

Lets talk business

With Volkswagens headquarters based in
Wolfsburg, it seems no wonder that the
city counts towards Germanys five most
promising business locations accord-
ing to the Handelsblatt and Prognos AGs
Zukunftsatlas 2016. But the city will
not rest on its laurels. Together with
Volkswagen, the city of Wolfsburg seeks
to develop into a model city for digitalisa-
tion to further foster the attractiveness of
Wolfsburg as a business and living stand-
ard location. The city also offers excellent
conditions for companies that seek to hold
or attend a conference or congress. Around
5,000 hotel beds (primarily in the four-star
category) and exciting locations offer the
perfect setting for events in Wolfsburg. The
great transport links and the convenient
location are great conditions for events
with participants from all over Germany. A
train from Berlin to Wolfsburg only takes 60
minutes and the nearest international air-
DFB-Cup winner 2017. Photo: VfL Wolfsburg
port is Hannover (HAJ), only 90 kilometres
away. From here, a shuttle brings visitors
to Wolfsburg in 60 minutes. Of course, the Kunstmuseum Wolfsburg. Photo: Marek Kruszewski

various leisure activities offer unusual pos-

sibilities for the framework programme.

www.wmg-wolfsburg.de/travelinfo

Travel offer:

- Two nights in a double room with

breakfast in a hotel of ones choice
on the weekend.
- Day ticket for Autostadt.
- Food and beverages in the Autostadt
for ten euros per person.
- Day ticket for phaeno.
- Brauhausteller dish in the Altes
Brauhaus zu Fallersleben.
Price per person in double room: 164,00
euros (including 19 per cent VAT)

Issue 52 | July 2017 | 45

Kameha Grand Bonn.

Infinity Pool. Beethoven Suite.

HOTEL OF THE MONTH, GERMANY

Resourceful entertainment giant

Green technology meets a powerfully designed environment for business and The Kameha Grand Bonn opened its doors
events in the giant wave-shaped Kameha Grand Bonn hotel, situated on the in 2009 and quickly became the event ho-
banks of the Rhine river. tel of the region. A favourite of both users
and experts within the gastronomy sector,
TEXT: CORNELIA BRELOWSKI | PHOTOS: SAEED ALAMI, COPYRIGHT: KAMEHA GRAND BONN the ecological lifestyle hotel has since won
numerous prizes. The imposing elliptical
The word Kameha stems from the Hawai- open and generous are fitted with luxurious structure is situated at the Bonner Bogen,
ian language and stands for the unique furnishings and cutting-edge technology. a newly developed area on the banks of
one. The Kameha Grand Bonn presents the Rhine river. Quickly reached from the
itself as a total artwork package, mutually Apart from offering a one-of-a-kind Bonn city centre, the site features a pictur-
created by the Bonn-based architect Karl- place for a stayover, the Kameha Grand esque view of the Siebengebirge moun-
Heinz Schommer and internationally ac- also hosts events like car and product tain range. The architect fondly links the
claimed Dutch designer Marcel Wanders, presentations and is conveniently locat- hotel to the spirit of generosity of the
co-founder of the Moooi brand. With its ed and easily accessible. In the evening, English glass domes and the passages
neo-baroque, detail-oriented interior, it enchanted guests enjoy the only Alpine that were built in European cities in the
offers a potential favourite space for each chalet set by the Rhine river and come 19th century.
individual guest. Marcel Wanders stresses next morning, due to the unique location,
that the unique project has createda space one can board a boat trip to Linz starting Generosity is also a main aspect of the ser-
both cool and sexy. Guest rooms that feel directly from the hotel grounds. vice and one of the prize-winning features

46 | Issue 52 | July 2017


of the Kameha Grand Bonn. In their own
words: Our service is marked by ease, ex-
clusivity and individual solutions. From
shopping to event ticket to restaurant visit,
our guest service team often use their own
contacts to suggest insider tips, making
your stay a unique experience.
Green technology is a given with the
Kameha Grand Bonn. Up to five floors
high, with a gross floor area of 31,100
square metres (a third of which is under-
ground), the giant structure features an
inhouse geothermal power station, con-
nected to one of Europes biggest geo-
thermal plants and saving a whopping
400 tonnes of CO2 emissions per year,
compared to a conventional energy sup-
ply system.
Apart from investing in its state-of-the-
art technology, the hotel sets a primary
accent on entertainment and the event
Kings Bed.
Atrium.
Queen Suite.
Discover Germany | Travel | Hotel of the Month, Germany
management sector. A hotel should
entertain, inspire and stimulate. That
way it needs a design supporting those
qualities, says interior designer Marcel
Wanders. We want to give the guests an
absolute life & style ambiance by creat-
ing a space full of beauty and surprises.
Guests are invited to explore themed
suites such as the Fair Play Suite, com-
plete with punching ball, soccer table and
Wii console; the Beethoven Suite featur-
ing its own piano and the extended Hero
Suite, with a spacious terrace and space
for up to eight guests.
For Wellness points, the Kameha SPA and
Fitness Power House offers a heated roof-
top pool, sauna and steam bath as well as
massages and beauty treatments. The In-
finity Pool especially draws weekend spa
guests, who enjoy the special ambiance
and the close vicinity to the Rhine river
and its picturesque natural panoramas.
Dome.
As for gastronomic delights, the restau-
rant brasserie Next Level serves breakfast
buffet in the morning, lunch and dinner,
with local specialties prepared and served
at the table. The Riverside Terrace in-
vites for relaxing meals overlooking the
Rhine and children playground. There
is the Michelin-star Japanese restaurant
Yunico, the Stage Bar & Lounge for ex-
otic teas and coffees and last not least the
Zino Platinum Cigar Lounge for the ci-
gar connoisseur.
Kamehameha was the first Hawaiian
ruler who managed to unite the various
Hawaiian Islands to one single state. The
Kameha Grand Bonn may not be an is-
land per se, but it certainly has the ap-
pearance of a kingdom, where everyone
finds all forms of shared entertainment,
as well as their very own exclusive retreat.
www.kamehabonn.de
Issue 52 | July 2017 | 47
Discover Germany | Travel | Hotel of the Month, Austria
HOTEL OF THE MONTH, AUSTRIA
Residing at the top of Vienna
With its luxuriously designed rooms, a chic atmosphere and a rooftop terrace
offering a spectacular view, the extravagant hotel LAME in the heart of Vienna is
one of the citys top addresses.
TEXT: NADINE CARSTENS I PHOTOS: MARKUS THUMS 2016
By combining a 1930s-style Viennese
charm with a cosmopolitan atmosphere,
Hotel LAME makes guests feel like mov-
ie stars, enjoying life to the fullest. Locat-
ed in the centre of the city, distances to
museums, exclusive shopping spots, the
Chamber Opera and other sights are very
short. The most direct neighbour of the
design hotel is St. Stephens Cathedral,
which is just a stones throw away and
can be perfectly seen from some of the
facilitys rooms. Nevertheless, those who
prefer to sleep in do not need to worry
about waking up when St. Stephens 22
bells start tolling since all the windows are
sound-proof.
Guests can stay at one of the boutique
hotels 32 rooms that are all decorated
with a loving attention to detail. Whether
they choose a Superior room, for example,
48 | Issue 52 | July 2017
with a king-size bed and a rain shower or
a Prestige room featuring Macassar wood
and a free-standing bathtub everyone
who has spent a night at the hotel prob-
ably does not want to leave anymore. That
is also because a team of 50 hotel em-
ployees takes care of every guests wishes.
If you want to find sports programmes
offered nearby or would like to have an-
other pillow or a vegan meal, our recep-
tion team is looking forward to helping all
guests to make their stay as comfortable
as possible, says Isabella Wexberg, hotel
manager of LENIKUS Hotels that runs the
establishment.
We are also very proud of our LAME
ROOFTOP terrace, which is the most
spectacular one in Vienna.On this terrace,
which was redesigned just recently by the
interior designer Gabriele Lenikus, guests
Left: The LAME Rooftop terrace.
Photo: Katharina Gossow (katharinagossow.com)
Right: Hotel LAME is very close to St. Stephens Cathedral
Middle: The Caf Bar BLOOM.
Bottom: The Prestige rooms have a free-standing bathtub.
can enjoy a particularly stunning view of
the city centre, while drinking a glass of
wine or a cocktail.In summer, we want to
offer several extraordinary, creative events,
for example club events such as a silent
disco or an open-air cinema, Wexberg
states.
Another highlight is our Caf Bar
BLOOM situated on the ground floor,
where a great range of culinary delights
are being served. Viennese citizens, as
well as hotel guests, come to this place to
quickly get an espresso or to enjoy lunch
or dinner with cocktails. The BLOOM
sandwich with grilled beef, bacon, eggs
and potato wedges is just one example for
various delicious meals.
www.hotellamee.com
www.lenikushotels.com
Air passengers who directly book their stay
at Hotel LAME on www.hotellamee.com
can profit from an exclusive offer by using
the promotion code LAMEE2017. The offer
is valid until the end of August 2017.
 Discover Germany | Travel | Top Conference Hotel

Top left: Enjoy a relaxing drink at Sky Lounge.

TOP CONFERENCE HOTEL

Left: Boost your energies with an invigorating breakfast in the bright breakfast room.
Right: Sweet dreams in a green superior double room with Regensburg-themed photographs.
Bottom: Atrium im Park Hotel in Regensburg a distinct place to stay.

Particularly distinct
the Atrium im Park Hotel in Regensburg
UNESCO World Heritage Site Regensburg in South Germany is a gem you may The newly formed service team enhances
have missed. This may change as Atrium im Park Hotel provides the perfect place the experience of a stay at Atrium im Park
to stay during your visit to this inspiring city right on the shores of the Danube. Hotel. Our team is an integral part of our
hotels success and its popularity with our
TEXT: SILKE HENKELE | PHOTOS: DUSCHNER FOTO & DESIGN guests. So, no matter whether you organ-
ise a conference or whether you are stay-
Regensburg holds a whole set of alluring mix of individuality, regional charm, a high ing with your family, you will always find
attractions. Visitors may find romantic plac- level of service standard and comfort as well a friendly, helpful and forthcoming support
es in Regensburgs old town as well as by as a pronounced level of hospitality. Our in each of our team members, Leidner
the river; age-old buildings like the Golden hotel is easy to reach. Located in a business concludes. Atrium im Park Hotel Regens-
Tower, a house tower from the 13th century, park, Atrium im Park Hotel is surrounded burg a singular hotel in a singular spot.
may propel you right back into ages long by lots of green, which gives the hotel that
gone. Regensburg and its surroundings very particular natural feeling. Restaurants www.atrium-regensburg.de
have a lot to offer and myself and the team and other amenities are nearby and park-
at Atrium im Park Hotel want our guests to ing spaces are free. The picturesque centre
make the most of their stay in our beautiful of Regensburg is only a 15-minute bus ride
city. We see our hotel as a convenient and away. Our 96 spacious rooms are family
welcoming base from which our guests friendly and have been styled in a wel-
may explore the magic sites of Regensburg coming manner that immediately connects
and as a reliable partner for business or the guests to Regensburg. A daily bottle of
conference guests,says Ralf Leidner, direc- fresh water is complimentary in all rooms
tor at Atrium im Park Hotel. and dogs are welcome and well catered for
on our premises, Leidner lists just some of
As part of the Libertas Hotel Group, the the many advantages and characteristics of
Atrium im Park Hotel boasts an appealing the Atrium im Park Hotel.

Issue 52 | July 2017 | 49

 Group of visitors in the Fuggerei.
Photo: Friedrich Stettmayer

St. Annes Church.

Photo: Friedrich Stettmayer

City hall with Perlach tower

and Augustus fountain.
Photo: Friedrich Stettmayer

The city hall, the Perlach tower and the St.

Ulrich church. Photo: Friedrich Stettmayer

G E R M A N H O L I D AY E X P E R I E N C E

Augsburg
Experience Italys most northern city
Founded between the Lech and Wertach rivers over 2,000 years ago by Roman The Golden Hall in Augsburgs city hall.
Photo: Siegfried Kerpf, City of Augsburg
troops, Augsburg is the second-oldest city in Germany. Today, one will find several
signs of ancient Rome in the city and can also feel a flair from the south. Augsburg
rightly calls itself the most northern city of Italy.

TEXT: AUGSBURG TOURISM I PHOTO COPYRIGHT: REGIO AUGSBURG TOURISMUS GMBH

A popular destination for city and culture
tourists alike, many visitors flock to Augs-
burg to gaze at exciting exhibitions, to
visit great conventions or to discover the
innovative university. In this city, a varied
architecture that includes medieval guild
houses or Renaissance buildings is com-
bined with top-class shopping opportuni-
ties, cute cafs and much more. No won-
der, Augsburg is a favourite for tourists all
year around.
Today, the Renaissance city hall with the
Golden Hall and the splendid fountains
and the palaces situated along the his-
torical Maximilianstrae are still impres-

50 | Issue 52 | July 2017

 Discover Germany | Travel | German Holiday Experience

sive reminders of this golden Augsburg
of the Renaissance. Along Augsburgs
Kaisermeile, one can relax in the many
sidewalk cafs on warm summer days,
while enjoying a view of the Augustus
fountain, the city hall, the Perlach tower,
the Mercury and Hercules fountains, the
St. Ulrich churches or the residential pal-
ace and savour the unique Mediterranean
charm of the city.
Another brilliant aspect is the story of
the wealthy Fuggers who left behind
the worlds oldest social settlement in
Augsburg. The Fuggerei annually attracts
hundreds of thousands of visitors.You will
find Jakob Fugger the Rich, the Augsburg
merchant and banker who financed em-
perors, kings and popes and baffled im-
perial leaders with his financial power in
the Altdeutschen Galerie in the Schaezler
palace. Here his portrait hangs, painted
by Albrecht Drer. Jakobs nephew (who
was most likely the richest man in the
world up until today) reconstructed the
Fugger buildings into a splendid city pal-
ace. Karl V lived here, Luther and Titian
were guests. The story of the Fuggers rise
to Europes most important trading house
in only three generations is told in the
Fugger and Welser Museum.
But you will find even more great names
in Augsburg: Leopold Mozart, the father
of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, was also a
citizen of Augsburg, as well as Bert Brecht
(the poet and author whose works are per-
formed on stage worldwide only second to
William Shakespeare). The birthplaces of
both can be found while strolling through
the city of Augsburg.
But these delights are only a few excerpts,
and Augsburg has so many faces. Some
are easy to find, others must be sought out,
in idyllic, narrow lanes in the old part of
town, in the ancient Dom (cathedral), on
a walk through the silent bulwarks and in
the award-winning parks of this city.
The city of Augsburg is also entering
the competition for inclusion in the
UNESCO World Heritage list. The topic
Historical water management and water
art in Augsburg has now been nominated
for an entry in the UNESCO list of cultur-
al and natural heritage at the Conference
of Ministers of Education and Cultural
Affairs. A decision is expected for 2019.
For further information please contact:
Regio Augsburg Tourismus GmbH
Tourist-Information
Rathausplatz 1, D - 86150 Augsburg
Tel: ++49 821/50207-0
www.augsburg-tourismus.de
tourismus@regio-augsburg.de

Water towers at Rotes Tor, left: St. Ulrich church. Photo: Reinhard Paland The Fugger and Welser Museum. Photo: Rudolf Morbitzer

The Brecht Houses exterior with illumination.

The historical Maximilianstrae at night. Photo: Reinhard Paland Photo: Norbert Liesz, Wolfgang F. Lightmaster

Issue 52 | July 2017 | 51

Discover Germany | Culture | German Holiday Experience

With the virtual reality camera, clients can visit a property when visiting Victor Investments exhibition stand.

Find a home away from home and

develop it professionally
Behind a dream property at home or abroad always hides a property specialist promotions. In June 2017, the compa-
who found or developed it in the first place. Most people prefer to buy such a ny finally opened its new retail shop in
property in a discreet way. This is something Victor Investment GmbH can Grunewald, one of the best living quarters
guarantee. With its head office in Berlin, the company has a wide portfolio of in Berlin, where Victor Investment GmbH
properties in Germany and abroad. now offers high-class flats for national and
international clients. In our view, this of-
TEXT: JESSICA HOLZHAUSEN | PHOTOS: VICTOR INVESTMENT GMBH fers our clients an additional service. For
our clients, we want to be as close as pos-
Victor Investment GmbH procures and sale of a large hotel with joint golf course sible to our properties, says Sven Johns,
sells upper-class properties in Berlin and in Northern Germany. This only became CEL at Victor Investment GmbH.
other parts of Germany here lies the public knowledge even among people
companys main focus. On the other hand, working there when the client decided to Clients and their needs are always in the
Victor Investment also facilitates holiday make it so. The client could thus determine centre no matter where they are looking
homes and larger plots of land for hotels when it was the right time to go public and for a property. To, for example, visualise
and commercial property developments. no one let anything slip in advance. We properties for clients, Victor Investment
Especially in the latter area, confidenti- put great emphasis on implementing our GmbH works with the newest technology.
ality is key. If it is our clients wish, we clients wishes when marketing properties. Visualisation is very important especially
work with all the necessary caution when for holiday properties, so that clients get a
searching for potential buyers, says CEO Last year, Victor Investment GmbH feeling for a propertys surroundings, says
Markus Nonnenmacher. In great secre- opened a pop-up store in a prime location Nonnenmacher.We are using 360-degree
cy, we recently for example mediated the at the Berlin Kurfrstendamm for special visualisations, virtual reality lenses and

52 | Issue 52 | July 2017


video footage shot with a drone, 3D floor
plans and more. Indeed, this is an effort
not many property investment companies
are making for their clients. But we think
that we should always offer our clients the
newest technology.
Victor Investments thesis is that own-
ing property follows upon great holidays.
Whoever has been to a holiday destina-
tion more than once might think about
buying a property there; they might have
felt at home in a foreign city, liked a certain
region, the landscape or the people they
have met. But since buying a property is
far more permanent than renting a hotel
room or an apartment, getting profession-
al advice in this case is always a good idea.
Expert advice secures making the right
decision about a property so that people
will feel happy about their choice for many
years. The company not only works for
private clients looking for themselves, but
Top left: Mediterranean coast in Croatia, one of the hotspots for
vacations and vacation properties in summer 2017 in Europe.
Top centre Clever floor plans, balconies, completely furnished
kitchen, pool, renting service for renting out to holiday guests
these are clients most important parameters for holiday
properties.
Top right: Victor Investment pop-up store for second home
properties, Kurfrstendamm 29 in Berlin.
Above: Victor Investments office, Kurfrstendamm 29 in Berlin.
Right: The Berlin Marathon directly passes by Victor
Investments office in Berlin.
Discover Germany | Travel | Victor Investment GmbH
also with property developers planning
new investments in foreign countries.
Choosing the right property is one thing,
but afterwards navigating through the le-
gal jungle can become quite complicated
especially in an international context,
says Sven Johns, lawyer and CEL at Victor
Investment GmbH. We prepare and pres-
ent all the necessary information clients
will need. For Croatia, we for example have
even created an e-book that tackles the
most important legal questions concerning
real estate acquisition in that country.
Croatia is among the top five locations
for buyers from the DACH region. The
number of overnight stays is constantly
growing, so it has become a hotspot for
investments in holiday resorts and apart-
ments. Victor Investment GmbH advises
investors when it comes to choosing the
right spot and planning the layout. The
company also has properties ready for de-
velopment in its current portfolio.
Legal questions also play an important
role when buying property in Germany
especially if you are from a foreign coun-
try and struggle with the German legal
system. Here, Victor Investment GmbHs
legal department also offers the necessary
support. When for example a declara-
tion of division for a residential complex
has to be made, says Johns. In Germany,
the company focuses on three separate
areas and markets: hotels, new buildings
and project development. At the moment,
Victor Investment GmbH has a golf ho-
tel in the Frankfurt area and newly built
flats in an excellent location in Berlin
Grunewald on offer, but also works inten-
sively to develop a project with 300 newly
built flats in Leipzig.
www.victor-investment.de
Issue 52 | July 2017 | 53
Discover Germany | Special Feature | German Holiday Experience

Ahlbeck Pier, Usedom. Photo: J. Triepke

The German Strandkorb

A piece of German Gemtlichkeit
The German Strandkorb, literally meaning beach basket, is a beach chair that has Elisabeth opened the worlds first Strand-
for generations been an integral part of the countrys seaside culture. From spring korb rental service. Literature Nobel Prize
to autumn, on Germanys shores, the motto prevails My Strandkorb is my castle. winner Thomas Mann recorded in a letter:
For writing I must have a roof over my
TEXT: WIBKE CARTER head, and since I enjoy working by the sea
better than anywhere else, I need a tent or
If there is one thing that distinguishes Ger- while sitting on the sand was certainly not. a wicker beach chair.
man beaches from any other ones in the Unwilling to forgo her annual visits, Von
world, it has to be the presence of beach Maltzahn commissioned Wilhelm Bartel- Since about 1910, a typical Strand-
chairs. Adorning the beaches of seaside mann, a chief basket maker who resided korb seats two people. Its roof can be tilt-
resorts on both the North Sea and Baltic in nearby Rostock, to weave a windbreak ed backwards and the back reclines into a
Sea, the sight of hundreds of beach chairs for her. The first ever beach chair, looking comfortable sunbathing position. The arm-
might be a bit strange for foreign first-time something like a large armchair and lik- rests have foldable trays for mealtimes and
visitors, but renting a Strandkorb on holi- ened at the time to an upright washing drawers at the base transform into leg rests
day is something quintessentially German basket, was first used on 15 June 1882. when pulled out, providing storage space
and not to be missed. for books, unneeded garments and snacks.
The new invention not only gave shelter
The beach chair as we know it today from the wind, rain, sand and sun, but Newer add-ons include seat heating and/
was invented in 1882 when Elfriede von the occupant was also hidden from view, or rainproof covers so it is possible to sit
Maltzahn was on holiday at the imperial affording some privacy. Von Maltzahns through violent storms without becoming
seaside resort of Warnemnde, a part of beach chair became so popular that Bar- damp. There are also models for children
the Baltic Sea often battered by strong and telmann began production at once. The and three-seaters for even more space.
chilly winds. Doctors advised that the sea following season, in 1883, he designed a PVC strips have replaced wicker as the
air was good for her rheumatoid arthritis, two-seater while his business-savvy wife main material, but construction is still a

54 | Issue 52 | July 2017

 Discover Germany | Travel Feature | A Piece of German Gemtlichkeit

joint project needing the skills of a carpen- Beach volleyball North Sea. Photo: Deutsche Zentrale Seagull. Photo: Deutsche Zentrale fr Tourismus e.V.
fr Tourismus e.V.
ter, basket maker, seamstress and uphol-
sterer, with each Strandkorb taking two
days to produce and the finished product
usually costing several hundred euros.
There are two main designs: the round
rolling Baltic Sea version and the straight
angular North Sea shape.

Even though German beach chairs are sold

in countries as far as Brazil, South Africa,
the USA and Japan, they still enjoy their
greatest popularity in Germany. It is esti-
mated that there are over 70,000 of them
along Germanys coastline. It has also be-
come fashionable to furnish living rooms,
patios, balconies or gardens with beach
chairs. Occasionally, they also decorate ho-
tels, restaurants in southern Germany, soc-
cer arenas or ski lodges in the Alps.

In 2007, the beach chair was catapulted

into the international spotlight when the
G8 Summit was held in Mecklenburg-
Vorpommern. A Super Strandkorb,
Juist Island - beach chairs in the twilight. Photo: Kurverwaltung Juist
which is two metres high and almost
six metres long in the shape of a half
Baltic resort of Warnemnde - organ grinders and sailor. Baltic Sea - seaside resort Heringsdorf.
hexagon, was specially made. The official Photo: Deutsche Zentrale fr Tourismus e.V.
Photo: Deutsche Zentrale fr Tourismus e.V.
family photo of the eight world leaders
including German Chancellor Angela
Merkel and Presidents Bush and Putin,
shows them all sitting together in a blue
and white upholstered beach chair in
Heiligendamm.

The beach chair is considered a cult ob-

ject of German Gemtlichkeit, which has
Beach chair in Cuxhaven. Deutsche Zentrale fr
survived two world wars, social and in- Tourismus e.V.
dustrial revolutions and the East-West
divide of Germany. Many Germans book
their beach chairs together with their ac-
commodation, some as early as Christmas,
and a good number of vacationers become
quite attached to their canopied wicker
baskets. Regular guests ask for the same
Girl playing in the sand.
beach chair every year such as beach
front row, but not next to Mr X and Mrs Y.
In a labour of love, often renters then build
low sand walls around their Strandko-
rb and decorate it with stones and shells.
With its gate safely put in place whenever
they are not there, it becomes their holi-
day home from home. As Mann wrote
fittingly: A beloved, incomparably satisfy-
ing and befitting situation indeed, which
my life prescribes with strict regularity!

Issue 52 | July 2017 | 55

 Photo: GROHE AG

SPECIAL THEME: SMART BUSINESS

Make your life smarter

The term smart home has become more and more omnipresent. It is no wonder, as smart home products offer greater
living comfort in many ways.

Photo: digitalSTROM

56 | Issue 52 | July 2017

 Discover Germany | Special Theme | Smart Business

Photo: GROHE AG Photo: Ulrich Beuttenmller

Simply imagine that after a long day at on smart home. Their latest intelligent a major leak is detected a revolution-
work, the house has already heated itself smart home solutions monitor room ary water security system for your home.
up to your preferred temperature. What temperature and humidity, detect frost Intrigued? Find out more on the follow-
might have sounded like a sci-fi dream risk and shut off the water supply when ing pages.
only a couple of years ago, is now easi-
ly attainable for ones house, flat, garden
and more.

In the following special theme, we take a

closer look at some of Germanys smartest
businesses that could improve your home
and your life. For example, the German
company digitalSTROM AG offers an in-
novative smart home technology for each
home with digitalSTROM this technol-
ogy communicates across existing power
lines and interlinks several electronic de-
vices, as well as broadband devices.

Another great company that we show-

case in this special theme is the Gira
Giersiepen GmbH & Co. KG, a leading
full-service provider of intelligent system
solutions for electrical or interconnected
digital building control. In this issue, we
explore how intelligent building technol-
ogy can provide greater living comfort in
ones own four walls.

Last but not least, we spoke to the

Photo: digitalSTROM
GROHE AG to find out about their take

Issue 52 | July 2017 | 57

 By connecting the lamps in an intelligent way, it is possible to provide individual moods in all rooms of the penthouse at the Hard Turm Park tower.

digitalSTROM
Smart home and digital assistant in one
digitalSTROM is a smart home system that makes living easier, more comfortable, an intelligent way, it is possible to provide
secure, and energy efficient. It connects all electronic devices with each other and individual moods in all rooms that are tai-
to the internet. lored to the residents needs.

TEXT: NADINE CARSTENS, DIGITALSTROM | PHOTOS: DIGITALSTROM Comfort and security

When you wake up in a digitalSTROM
house, the day starts differently for you:
the light is dimmed, so your eyes can ad-
just to your surroundings and you wake up
well rested. The bathroom welcomes you
with your favourite music and everything is
ready for you: the shower has exactly the
temperature you prefer and the light mood
slowly changes to daylight you feel vi-
talised and ready for your day. You slowly
start your day by looking at a mirror that
also displays the current weather and your
appointments. Therefore, you know what
to wear and expect in the following hours.
While you are still in your bathroom and
getting dressed, water is being preheated
for your special type of tea, providing time
you never had before. You can enjoy your
breakfast without feeling rushed. With
digitalSTROM you can have a perfect day
because your digital assistant prepares
what you need.
The penthouse at the Hard Turm Park tow-
er in Zurich is proof of how perfectly this
kind of intelligent interconnection and
contemporary design can interact. While
the interior was designed by the artist col-
lective Dyer-Smith Frey, the builders chose
digitalSTROM as a smart home platform
to orchestrate the entire light control of
the penthouse. By connecting the lamps in
With a simple Im leaving to the voice
control of the apartment or a convention-
al pushbutton, which was defined as leave
home, you can pursue your plans without
bothering about your home. A signal is sent
to all devices, which then react individually
depending on their type. The lights go out,
heating turns off, shutters close and the flat
iron is switched off. If a window is open,
digitalSTROM sends a notification. With
only one command, the house takes care of
everything.
digitalSTROM even ensures that the house
is secure even if nobody is at home: pres-
ence simulation turns on the audio sys-
tem as well as lights and moves the shut-

58 | Issue 52 | July 2017


ters accordingly to daytime, so it looks as
if someone is at home. If digitalSTROM
is connected with an alarm system and
someone breaks into the house, the devic-
es raise individual alarms, for example the
audio system starts a siren or dog barking
and the lights turn on. If a fire alarm is in-
tegrated and there is a fire, digitalSTROM
clears escape routes and illuminates them.
At the same time, it informs family and
neighbours.
In comparison to other smart home sys-
tems, digitalSTROM has several advantag-
es. Firstly, each device can be made intel-
The showroom in Hong Kong is designed and equipped together with partner V-ZUG.
Discover Germany | Special Theme | Smart Business
ligent by connecting it to a small terminal
block. This way, it can interact with all other
devices or household appliances. Secondly,
communication takes place via the existing
power line so that no additional wiring is
necessary and even old buildings can be
equipped. A third advantage is that the
system can be upgraded at any time. As a
result, customers have the chance to extend
their smart home step by step. Another ad-
vantage is that digitalSTROM orchestrates
all devices, which means they work in the
manner people living there expect them to,
therefore no configuration is necessary. A
real plug & play. Finally, digitalSTROM is an
With digitalSTROM you can control your home using mobile devices, voice control or a conventional pushbutton.
open platform, so the customer can choose
any manufacturer, whether it is lights, push
buttons, shades and so on. Home applianc-
es can be integrated as long as they have
publicly documented interfaces.
To get an idea of the perfect interplay be-
tween the different digitalSTROM prod-
ucts, you can visit one of the companys
showrooms in Schlieren or Cologne. There,
you can experience how a bathroom can be
turned into a spa at the touch of a button,
how a kitchen follows a short command,
and how a living room reacts to simple ges-
tures. Since operating on an international
Sven Oswald, TV host from Berlin and
digitalSTROM customer.
Issue 52 | July 2017 | 59
Discover Germany | Special Theme | Smart Business
Church Berghusens pastor Baltzer - the historic church
was equipped with a state-of-the-art lighting system
thanks to digitalSTROM.
Showroom Singapore shows how smart home
technology and contemporary design fit together.
level is important to digitalSTROM, it has
also opened showrooms in Shanghai,
Hong Kong and Singapore in cooperation
with partner companies such as Sauter
China, V-ZUG and Smartbox.
Those who have already installed the
digitalSTROM system include Sven
Oswald,TV host from Berlin, who has
60 | Issue 52 | July 2017
Together with partner Smartbox, digitalSTROM has a showroom in Singapore.
connected almost all his devices, from
roller shutters to lighting and to his ste-
reo.I and my family have been convinced
of all the practical advantages offered by
the digitalSTROM system, Oswald states.
For Jonas Hiller, an ice hockey goalie from
Switzerland, Arrive and Leave are the
most practical functions:When I leave the
house, I just push the Leave button and
Angelika Heier-Zimmer,
electrical engineer and
digitalSTROM customer.
the house takes care of the rest. Angeli-
ka Heier-Zimmer, electrical engineer, also
decided to set up this smart home system
at her guesthouse on the island of Fhr.
Right from the beginning, it was my wish
to offer a smart home in a comfortable,
traditional setting to my guests. Besides,
in the living area of my guesthouse there
are many windows and lamps the idea
 Discover Germany | Special Theme | Smart Business

of an intelligent, comfortable light control

according to different activities such as
reading, watching TV, or cooking seemed
to suggest itself.

New possibilities for people of all ages

In times of digitalisation, digitalSTROM
heralds a new smart home era, offering
new ways of interaction, intelligent ap-
pliances and almost endless connectivity.
The ability to understand speech and
contexts, as well as recognising certain
processes by means of sensors or imag-
es allows a whole new way of interacting
with your house, explains Martin Vesper,
CEO of digitalSTROM AG. In the face of
demographic change, this development
offers new possibilities for people of all
ages, independent from their affinity with
technology.We want to focus on our cus-
tomers, therefore using our products has
to be very simple.
Chancellor Angela Merkel and Martin Vesper, CEO of digitalSTROM, at the Girls Day.

Even Chancellor Angela Merkel was im-

pressed. On this years Girls Day, an annu-
al event that encourages girls and young
women to learn more about technology
and science, digitalSTROM visited the
Federal Chancellors Office. The company
presented Merkel and a group of girls how
exciting programming can be by letting
the girls program a humanoid robot that
interacted with the digitalSTROM system.

What is a smart home?

A smart home is a house where all devices are
digital and connected, meaning everything is
controlled by software. It is also connected to
the web, so that services can be added and
every device has access to the best algorithm
in the world. Once a home is fully digital and
connected, a feature like voice control is easily
Each device can be made intelligent by connecting it to a small terminal block.
done just by adding the device and log-in.
The marginal cost of new functions is close to
zero in a smart home and because of regular
updates, it continually becomes better.

Company data
digitalSTROM AG represents a coherent
interconnection concept and a more digital
way of life. While the companys headquarters
are in Zurich-Schlieren, it sells digitalSTROM
products in Germany, Austria, Switzerland, the
Netherlands, and in various other countries
worldwide. digitalSTROM works in cooperation
with companies such as Sonos, Microsoft,
Amazon, V-ZUG, and Dornbracht. By now,
the company has also been awarded various
prizes, for example by Juniper Research and
Focus Money.
Focus Money announced
www.digitalstrom.com digitalSTROM the most popular app Juniper Researchs Future Digital Award for digitalSTROM as the best consumer
in the Smart Home category. product in the Smart Home category.

Issue 52 | July 2017 | 61

Discover Germany | Special Theme | Smart Business

How smart is your home?

Smart homes are on everyones lips, yet few have become familiar with them. Do home already knows that you will soon
we need all those extra apps and features around us, or will they complicate our arrive. You have announced your arrival by
lives even more? Gira, a leading brand for building systems technology, will help smartphone. The heating adjusts to your
us get a better idea. desired temperature. The door opens by
fingerprint, and your preferred light am-
TEXT: GERSCHAU.KROTH.WERBEAGENTUR GMBH | PHOTOS: ULRICH BEUTTENMLLER biance and music are provided for a wel-
come. At the touch of a button, your living
In our cars, we have long become used to it: This has been the approach of Gira, lo- room converts into a cinema. You can see
doors open without a touch and the lights cated in Radevormwald in the Bergisches on your television screen when dinner
go on. At the touch of a button, the seat and Land region. For more than 100 years, is ready, or who is ringing your doorbell.
steering wheel move into our memorised this family-owned company has been de- When you wish to relax in the privacy of
position of convenience. Doors automati- veloping and manufacturing systems to the spa area under the massage shower,
cally lock when we start driving. The sound provide more convenience and safety in your home will keep you perfectly shield-
system plays our favourite music, and turns buildings through electrical engineering. ed from the world outside. Your home is
off when the phone rings. In modern ve- It all began with simple light switches and secured at any time, even when you leave
hicles, many smart, networked functions socket outlets today, full control sys- again the following morning, or if the chil-
are pre-programmed for extra conveni- tems are able to interlink a wide variety of dren are ever alone at home.
ence, safety and energy efficiency, and can functions and devices in a home network.
be individually adapted to the driver. Now Modern design, the art of engineering, Connected Comfort and Gira eNet:
why should this level of convenience end and quality Made in Germany this is space becomes an experience
in our garage? Once we enter our home, what the brand has been representing for A vision of the future? Not at all. In a loft
rather than us having to adapt to our tech- many decades. near Munich, several leading premium
nology, would it not be nice if our technol- brands in building technology demonstrate
ogy would rather adapt to us, individually, So, what happens when you enter a home how the different convenience and safe-
without us giving it a second thought? that is equipped like that? First of all, your ty functions can be networked together.

62 | Issue 52 | July 2017


Miele, Vaillant, Loewe, Warema, Brumberg,
Revox, Viega, Dornbracht all these brands
are focusing on the smart interlinking of
their products. The heart of the entire sys-
tem is the Gira Home Server. It ensures
at the same time that the home can easi-
ly be controlled by smartphone, tablet, or
simply by a switch on the wall. Together,
these brands are thus defining an equip-
ment standard for new residence buildings,
designed to cover all rooms, brands and
building trades, and making it so much
easier to achieve convenient and safe living.
This standard is called Connected Comfort
(www.connected-comfort.de) and its agenda
is in the name. Markus Fromm-Wittenberg,
one of the minds behind Connected Com-
fort, puts it succinctly: If you erect a new
building today without a network, you will
have an old building from day one.
Connected Comfort is only one of the
platforms where Gira is active in the smart
home market. Of course, smart technol-
ogy should not be limited to new build-
ings. Existing structures should equally
Discover Germany | Special Theme | Smart Business
benefit from the extra convenience and
safety. That is why a wireless system has
been developed for retrofitting without
any major renovation work. This system
is called eNet SMART HOME, and equal-
ly offers a wide range of functions to take
your living experience to a new level. The
eNet SMART HOME also covers an en-
tire range of brands for smart networking.
The entire world of networked living
The idea behind the Gira platforms is
clear: No single brand on its own can offer
all the devices needed for turning a home
into a smart one. Markus Fromm-Witten-
berg: Only if a system is used by many
brands and partners can it develop its full
potential. That is why cooperation is so
important to the company. It allows each
brand to contribute its own competence
without abandoning the common basis.
The result is that the home owner ben-
efits from the security of an established,
future-proof Smart Home standard, and
can still access the entire world of smart
networked functions. As part of this
Gira eNet Mobile Gate App.
Photo: Gira
arrangement, local skilled craftsmen who
are qualified service partners provide
consultation and the installation and pro-
gramming of the systems. Anybody who
has ever attempted to install complex de-
vices in his home will welcome this kind
of assistance. Especially with regard to
sensitive security functions, the flawless
operation of the new systems must be
ensured.
There are many aspects to security in this
context. For example, when it comes to
confidentiality of personal data, many
home owners will prick up their ears. At
an early stage, Gira has understood that
digitally networked living also involves se-
curity at the data and IT level. Therefore,
they offer a very high encryption standard
with their systems. Data is only stored
on servers within Germany. In fact, most
of the data never even leaves your home.
Thus, you can enjoy smart home living free
from worries.
www.gira.de
Issue 52 | July 2017 | 63
Discover Germany | Special Theme | Smart Business

CargoBeamer Gates are compact, scalable and fit everywhere.

Revolutionising smart home:

GROHE Sense and Sense Guard
GROHE Sense and GROHE Sense Guard are GROHEs latest intelligent solutions Moreover, the sensor tracks room tem-
for the smart home. The GROHE Sense smart water sensor monitors room perature and humidity. Multiple devices
temperature and humidity, detects frost risk and gives warning if the levels become across different rooms or at critical loca-
too high or too low. GROHE Sense Guard is installed in the main water pipe and tions can facilitate detection of leaks. This
can stop water flow automatically in case of, for example, a major leak. Both use makes it possible for the home owner to
ground-breaking smart technology, allowing them to be monitored and controlled react quickly and prevent further damage.
using the GROHE ONDUS App. GROHE Sense and GROHE Sense Guard combined,
constitute a revolutionary water security system for your home. Being installed in the central water pipe
of the house by a professional installer,
TEXT: EDELMANERGO | PHOTOS: GROHE AG GROHE Sense Guard serves as a smart
water controller which detects frost risk
Innovative products for a smarter future: ter in the home. When water touches the or cracks in the downstream piping sys-
GROHE Sense is a smart water sensor. sensors base due to for example a leak or tem and shuts off water supply automat-
Easily placed on the floor, it detects wa- flooding, GROHE Sense gives an alert. ically. A micro leak test is conducted once

64 | Issue 52 | July 2017


every 24 hours by which even the smallest
leaks in the cold-water pipes can be de-
tected. Even leaving a tap open will not re-
main unnoticed anymore! GROHE Sense
Guard tracks water consumption and con-
tinually monitors water flow, pressure and
temperature. Users can always check their
individual water consumption at any time.
Discover Germany | Special Theme | Smart Business
Your personal water profile
The innovative GROHE Sense system is
based on industry standard wireless LAN
technology, controlled through the GRO-
HE ONDUS App the centerpiece of the
GROHE Sense system. It offers the highest
level of water safety, allowing to continu-
ally monitor and control GROHE Sense
and GROHE Sense Guard whenever
and wherever. The users receive alerts on
the smartphone connected to the internet
when there is a water issue at home. The
water supply can be shut off with the app
to prevent major damage. Additionally,
the app has a feature that allows users to
track their domestic water consumption.
Issue 52 | July 2017 | 65
Discover Germany | Special Theme | Smart Business
Water damage an underestimated risk
GROHE Sense and Sense Guard have
been developed to address the issue of
water damage in households as an under-
estimated risk as a survey shows: in
January 2017, GROHE conducted its own
Water Security Survey in ten Europe-
an countries, focusing on water-related
damages caused by burst pipes, rooftop
leaks, pipe leaks or defective household
appliances. The survey revealed a consid-
erable gap between peoples perception of
water damage and the actual problems it
66 | Issue 52 | July 2017
can cause. Participants estimated that only
37 per cent of European households have
suffered from water damage while actu-
ally 54 per cent of European households
experienced one this is much more than
participants suspected.
Water damage an expensive risk
If water damage occurs, the cost of repair
can add up fast. However, insurance may
not cover the total sum. On average in
Europe, water damage costs including
detection, repair and replacement of dam-
aged goods can add up to around 2,300
euros while 39 per cent of total costs are
not reimbursed by insurance companies.
Water damage a preventable risk
With a growing number of people using
smart home devices, there are new intelli-
gent solutions for water security. GROHE`s
Water Security Survey shows that 67 per
cent of people would consider buying an
early detection system for their homes,
but currently only one in four are aware
that water damage warning systems exist.

Only three per cent own such a product. As
GROHE always wants to ensure that cus-
tomers can enjoy their water experience,
developing intelligent devices to moni-
tor and prevent water damage incidents
has been a natural next step in product
innovation.
Statistics provided by the German Insur-
ance Association (GDV) offer further sup-
porting evidence. Water was an issue in
56 per cent of residential home insurance
Discover Germany | Special Theme | Smart Business
cases in 2015, while 50 per cent of the total
residential damage is due to mains related
water damages. The GDV report has also
shown that 93 per cent of the cases could
have been prevented. These figures show
that water damage is indeed a big issue
and an underestimated risk.
Enjoy peace of mind
Our aim is to be a source of enjoyment.
Mains-related water damage is the most
frequent damage in the house. When
water damage occurs, you want things
fixed right away, but it can take weeks
if not months before everything is re-
paired. Therefore, prevention is the best
remedy. That is why we developed the
GROHE water security system: enjoy the
day enjoy peace of mind, while GROHE
Sense and Sense Guard take care of your
home, says Michael Rauterkus, CEO
GROHE AG.
www.grohe.de
Issue 52 | July 2017 | 67
 Photo: https://perzonseo.com

SPECIAL THEME: GERMANYS BUSINESS COACHES

The leadership experts

Business coaching can greatly improve ones skills and chance of success, whether you are an employee, a CEO, a
manager or looking for a new job. Find out what Germanys business coaches have to offer on the following pages.

Photo: https://perzonseowebbyra.se

68 | Issue 52 | July 2017

 Discover Germany | Special Theme | Germanys Business Coaches

Left: Cover of Simone Stlzels Unendliche Weiten. Photo: Verlagsgruppe Vandenhoeck & Ruprecht Middle: German terms for self-reflection, self-determination and self-responsibility.
Photo: Metaloge. Right: Cover of Thomas Stlzels Staunen, Humor, Mut und Skepsis. Photo: Verlagsgruppe Vandenhoeck & Ruprecht

A different approach to coaching

When a dialogue is led by Thomas and Simone Stlzel it becomes more than a ing as a way of discovering new thoughts
conversation, it transforms into a metalogue. With a diverse background in about topics. Hence, Staunen, Humor, Mut
literature, culture and philosophy, the two founders of the Metaloge Berlin GbR und Skepsis examines the advantages
have developed their own ideas about coaching. Through their consulting firm, they of philosophic competences in profes-
apply their unique, goal-oriented, often humoristic, line of thinking when supporting sional circumstances, while Unendliche
individuals and businesses in finding different points of view or sustainable quality. Weiten presents the original Star Trek
as an example for solving problems by
TEXT: THOMAS SCHROERS developing particular psychological skills.
Through these books, the two are able
We want to show that there is a different but also about the way we communicate to make their discoveries available to
way of talking about topics. That people with each other. Through this differentia- others.
are storytelling beings, whose lives are tion, the metalogue generates a new level
dependent on the stories they tell them- of knowledge. All Metaloge consultations, coaching or
selves and others. Like any human be- workshops are held in the German lan-
ings, the Stlzels themselves are made up One subject that has become very im- guage.
of a variety of stories. Some are about ex- portant for the Stlzels is sustainability
periences in literature, philosophy, histo- in management. For us, this is about a www.metaloge.de
ry of arts and culture. Others dive into the resource-efficient development for making
fields of therapy, consulting and coach- a company socially and economically sus- Simone and Thomas Stlzel.
ing. All come to play in the process of a tainable regarding not only environment, Photo: Metaloge

Metaloge project, where both use their
experiences to offer a constructive com-
panionship for all kinds of professional
and personal topics.
A metalogue is a special form of a dia-
logue, enabling the participants to view
a topic or problem from a diverse array of
perspectives. During a metalogue, one is
not only talking about the matter at hand
but also the resource of employees and
management. Correlating with sustain-
ability is the subject of nurturing quality
throughout a companys value chain. We
have developed methods for supporting
individuals and institutions at preserving
their qualitative level through renewal.
Keen on improving their methods,
Thomas and Simone have chosen writ-

Issue 52 | July 2017 | 69

Discover Germany | Special Theme | Germanys Business Coaches

Jasper Dehner (left) and Ulrich Dehner (right) in a meeting.

A holistically developed personality as the

basis for success
We are living in times where the value of each individual employee, their potential
as well as the need for professional advancement are acknowledged and actively
promoted. Employers and employees alike are aware that personal development
is key to a fulfilled and above all successful working life.
TEXT: SILKE HENKELE I PHOTOS: ANJA REITH
When certified psychologist Ulrich
Dehner established Konstanz and Berlin-
based dehner academy in 2014, he had al-
ready been working as a coach for almost
30 years. Together with his children, trainers
and coaches Jasper and Alice, he decided to
take their ideas that one significant step
further.The three of us had already worked
as coaches in the Konstanzer Seminare, a
collection of seminars for managers, sales
people and human resources, says Alice
Dehner, co-founder and one of the three
CEOs at dehner academy, remembering
the academys outsets. dehner academys
message has always been clear: the per-
sonality of an individual is his or her most
valuable asset. It was this belief in particular
we wanted to pass on to a German as well
as an international clientele.
Current demands on managers are varied
and they thus need to be equipped with
very short time,says Dehner, introducing
this singular tool.
dehner academys coaches have a sound
understanding of psychology as well as an
in-depth knowledge of the various types
of a companys operational departments.
a multitude of tools that enable them They have a well-grounded understand-
to interact with their team members on ing of systemic connectivities within com-
many different levels. Todays managers panies; this holistic knowledge as well as
need to be multi-functional: they need to dehner academys personality-centred
be able to coach individual employees as approach helps managers to develop their
well as whole teams. They need to stim- personality in a way that benefits them-
ulate their employees personal develop- selves and their employer.
ment and, if possible, retain the employ-
ee. They also need to be able to moderate www.dehner.academy
conflicts in a way that leaves neither win-
ners nor losers, Dehner explains. Put-
ting the individuals personality in the
focus of our seminars, we want to equip
managers, sales personnel and human
resources alike with the above described
tools. Moreover, dehner academy has de-
veloped IntrovisionCoaching, a tool that
is based on transactional analysis, Mind-
fulness Based Stress Reduction and Intro-
vision. IntrovisionCoaching is highly effi-
cient in pointing out and in permanently
Alice Dehner in a coaching situation.
overcoming a clients mental blocks in a

70 | Issue 52 | July 2017

 Discover Germany | Special Theme | Germanys Business Coaches

Finding inspiration in nature

and shouldnt hesitate to include their
Executive coach Gudrun Happich helps business leaders to improve their employees ideas as well.
management style.
www.galileo-institut.de
TEXT: NADINE CARSTENS | PHOTOS: BIRGITTA PETERSHAGEN FOTOGRAFIE www.leistungstraeger-blog.de

Nature can be a helpful guide for compa-
nies. Similar to biological systems, com-
panies also have to adapt to their envi-
ronment and to changing circumstances.
Gudrun Happich came to this conclusion
when working as an executive a job she
did for 12 years.I was expected to manage
the companies in a way that did not suit
me. I had to act like a different person and
realised that this management style was
ineffective, Happich explains.
Therefore, she was looking for alter-
native models. Since she studied biology,
she found inspiration in nature and de-
veloped the bioSystemik management
approach: I was looking for consistent
solutions, Happich explains.So I derived
this management style based on principles
such as self-organisation,
2_0_subscribe_DG:Layout 1 self-responsibil-
22/3/16 14:06
ity, and transparency from natural forms Executive coach
Gudrun Happich.
of organisation. Her strategy not only
turned out to be very successful, she also
enjoyed being an executive again.
To share her experience with others,
she has been working as a freelance ex-
ecutive business coach since 1994 and
established Galileo . Institut fr Human
Excellence in Cologne. With her expertise
as a biologist and former executive, she
creates individual solutions by combin-
ing these disciplines. The key to being a
successful executive is staying true to
yourself, says Happich. Many of my cli-
ents think that they have to orientate
themselves towards other companies
or that they have to stick to certain be-
havioural patterns. Instead, they should
find
Pageout
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Discover Germany | Special Theme | Germanys Business Coaches

Photo: Fotolia, Rawpixel Ltd.

Photo: Fotolia

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Know yourself and become who you are

423 BT Beratung und Training fr die Wirtschaft offers seminars in many specialist The competence of 423 is expanding
areas: development of personality and managers, coaching, mediation and and enhancing the leadership qualities.
supervision. All classes are custom-made to the clients personalities. What exactly distinguishes leadership
personalities? They have a wide range
TEXT: INA FRANK of possibilities and instruments to guide
their employees. Leadership personalities
423 was founded in 1996 and has pursued employees using convictions, attitudes and can take many roles: from role models to
its mission ever since: supporting man- a clear stance, the business management companions, from motivator to problem
agers in becoming empathetic leadership will be excellent. It has to be emphasised solver, from supporter to advisor.
personalities through coaching, trainings that working only with demands and in-
and seminars. The idea behind their con- structions does not work a real leadership Another important issue to the coaches at
cept is that companies can implement personality takes any specific situation and 423 is the learning company. Leadership
their vision and fulfil their mission if all the individual employee into consideration. personalities know how to get rid of old,
managers and employees take full advan- inefficient leadership and how to develop
tage of their potential. But how does becoming a good leadership innovative options for action. 423 coun-
personality actually work? According to sels, trains and accompanies businesses
Leadership is also an issue of ones per- 423, it can be compared to boxing: a leader- in becoming learning companies. The
sonal development. One can only motivate ship personality needs a sparring partner coaches help leadership personalities to
others to do their best for their company, who offers constructive feedback and helps build up a respectful and wary commu-
if he or she permanently reflects his or her to develop leadership competences. 423 nication culture which prioritises the cli-
thinking and acting towards others. The with its directors Dr. Bernd M. Wittschier, ents needs and expectations.
coaches at 423 believe that if a leadership Christian Polz and Gerda-Marie Wittschier
personality knows how to motivate the is that strategic partner you need. www.423gmbh.de

72 | Issue 52 | July 2017

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Discover Germany | Special Theme | Germanys Consulting Experts

Photo: Flickr.com, perzon seo

S P E C I A L T H E M E : G E R M A N Y S C O N S U LT I N G E X P E R T S

A fast-growing industry
According to a study by the Federal association of German management consulting (Bundesverband Deutscher
Unternehmensberater), the German consultant industrys turnover increased by over seven per cent to 29 billion euros in
2016. Additionally, 5,000 new consulting jobs were created. The industry is booming.

Photo: Flickr.com, Flazingo Photos

74 | Issue 52 | July 2017


Photo: Copyright: Flickr.com, Lucas
In 2016, around 115,000 business consult-
ants worked in Germany and, all in all,
140,000 employees were employed in the
consulting industry. This clearly shows a
booming industry, but why exactly is that?
Companies, organisations and adminis-
trations are subject to a profound, digital
transformation. Thereby, they increasing-
ly look for support through management
consultants in order to continue to be suc-
cessful with the needed strategy, process
and IT adaptations.
Not least because of this factor, the con-
sulting industrys turnover has increased
by 7.4 per cent to 29 billion euros in 2016.
At the same time, the job market is boom-
ing: an additional 6,000 jobs were created
in 2016 in consulting companies 5,000 of
these on consultant level.
For 2017, consultants remain optimistic.
They expect an increase in turnover of 8.3
Discover Germany | Special Theme | Germanys Consulting Experts
per cent according to a market study by Photo: Flickr.com, Michael Porter
the Bundesverband Deutscher Unterne-
hmensberater (BDU). Another forecast
predicted by the study is the targeted ex-
pansion of companies digital consulting
portfolio, as well as their own business
models. BDU president Ralf Strehlau says:
The consumers information and purchase
decision-making process severely changes
through digitalisation. Through this, classic
consulting and IT topics, as well as com-
municative tasks, have to interact more
closely. Management consultants react to
this development with the targeted acqui-
sition of tech companies, as well as digital
and advertising agencies or the intensive
cooperation with suitable partners.
In order for you to find out what Germany
has to offer on the consulting front, we
handpicked some of the countrys industry
leaders on the following pages.
Issue 52 | July 2017 | 75
Discover Germany | Special Theme | Germanys Consulting Experts

Hidden champions of Automated Disposition

Masters of the global flow of goods
To ensure that goods always arrive where they are needed, complex processes and global, the only way to efficiently con-
must be regulated and new decisions must be continually made. In todays world, trol the flow of goods is by relying on an
that means automated disposition is necessary to optimally control the stream of automatised planning schedule and corre-
goods. Abels & Kemmner Group just happen to be the hidden champions of the sponding ordering process.
trend towards the digitalisation of disposition.
As in many sectors, the emerging auto-
TEXT: JAIME HEATHER SCHWARTZ mated disposition market has its own
Hidden Champions. That is to say, the
The digitalisation of the world is progress- are just some aspects of these connect- medium-sized companies who are the
ing ever more quickly. Behind the devel- ed networks. But how do systems know technology and / or market leaders of
opment, which reaches the end user in the where things should be delivered and the niche. In Germany, that would be the
form of intelligent search engines, social what should be done when production corporate A & K Group, comprised of the
networks or simplified ordering processes capacity is limited? Or what has priority? consulting firm Abels & Kemmner, the
on the internet, is the automation of com- How does one reach a high delivery ca- software company SCT and the training
plex sequences and decisions. The digitali- pacity with a small amount of inventory and seminar provider AWF. The latter re-
sation of supply chains and industrial pro- and within reasonable costs? How does a cently developed an accredited course of
duction, often referred to as Industry 4.0, is company find the optimal balance? study for disposition managers, the first
the new economic megatrend. Machines of its kind to ever exist. Together, the A
collaborate in so-called cyber-physical Typically, these sorts of high-level deci- & K Group can provide all the necessary
systems and thus are increasingly able to sions are the responsibility of a companys services for companies to optimise their
produce goods more efficiently. Automat- disposition manager. However, as supply supply chains in a sustainable manner.
ed moving conveyors and seeing robots chains become more complex, fragmented Despite the fact the A & K Group is not

76 | Issue 52 | July 2017


as well-known as they perhaps should be,
many consumers have already indirectly
benefited from the groups achievements;
especially when it comes to the capability
to deliver goods.
In the past, the ability to deliver goods was
often ensured by maintaining a large in-
ventory. That meant any manufacturer or
distributor with a large warehouse could
create a successful supply chain. However,
keeping a high amount of stock on hand
these days is not profitable enough to justi-
fy, especially as the demand for goods, and
the kinds of goods, changes too fast. Today
the amount of inventory business custom-
ers are willing to keep is too low to bridge
a suppliers delays in delivery, as this has
often been the fact in the past. How then,
can dispatchers establish a supply chain
with a high delivery capacity while keeping
inventories as low as possible?
Strong solutions instead of instinct
Many companies are failing today because
of the above dilemma. No wonder, says
Professor Dr. Gtz-Andreas Kemmner,
managing partner of the A & K Group.
Keeping delivery capacity high with a
low supply of inventory for thousands of
Stock Keeping Units is a statistical chal-
lenge, and one that cannot be solved with
good instincts. The economy has been
struggling for many years now with this
exact problem that, in moments of doubt,
Discover Germany | Special Theme | Germanys Consulting Experts
those responsible will default to making
decisions based on their personal experi-
ence. Ultimately, this means important de-
cisions are made according to someones
gut-feeling. Even if this intuitive process
has proved some level of success it keeps
the potential optimisation only between
20 to 30 per cent.
Even if companies use specialised add-
on systems, says Dr. Kemmners partner
Dr. Bernd Reineke. Delivery capacity is
still heavily reliant on instinct. Although IT
systems can bring transparency and make
it possible to visualise decision-making
situations, these systems often make order
proposals that a dispatcher considers im-
plausible; so again going with a feeling is
what wins out. Many companies are con-
fronted with another challenge: business
is growing, but finding sufficiently quali-
fied dispatchers is becoming more diffi-
cult. There are many reasons, therefore,
to work towards automated disposition
solutions and to optimise them by gener-
ally accepted rules so users can obtain the
overall optimum.
For this reason, the Aachen consultants
from Abels & Kemmner, together with
the software house SCT, are continuous-
ly developing a disposition methodology
and have implemented a special simula-
tion system that makes it possible to de-
velop a company-specific set of best prac-
tice planning algorithms, which require
none, or very little, additional oversight
by dispatchers. Appropriate staff training
is offered by AWF and its application can
produce savings as well as higher optimi-
sation potential for industry and trade.
www.ak-online.biz
www.diskover.eu
First page, left: When users no longer need to intervene,
the delivery process can be highly automated. Delivery
capacity can be enhanced with the same personnel, or this
work force gains time to focus on areas that require critical
attention. Professor Dr. Gtz-Andreas Kemmner, managing
partner of the A & K Group. Photo: Abels & Kemmner
Business Consultants Ltd.
First page, right: By using the A&K Groups Dispo 4.0
DISKOVER tool, we currently have about 250 warehouses
which are operating almost fully automated, and were able
to increase delivery capability even with reduced inventories.
Christian-Hans Bltemeier, CFO at the Bremen Hydraulic
Expert HANSA-FLEX AG. Photo: HANSA-FLEX AG
Bottom left: We consolidated disposition for more than
140 locations with three different ERP systems with the A
& K Group Dispo 4.0 DISKOVER tool and enabled a broad
automated disposition. With DISKOVER we also have
an excellent reporting tool that, even with more than ten
million Stock Keeping Units, makes a drill down from KPI
to individual item levels possible. This is extremely efficient.
Dr. Reiner Schmitz, head of central disposition / director
corporate replenishment at TROST, which belongs to the
Wessels & Mller Group. Photo: TROST Fahrzeugteile
Bottom middle: We call our simulation system for the
automatised flow of goods Disposition 4.0, since it
represents the complete automation of the disposition
procedure, as with Industry 4.0. Dr. Bernd Reineke,
managing partner of the A & K Group. Photo: Abels &
Kemmner Business Consultants Ltd.
Bottom right: Working with A & K Groups Dispo 4.0
System DISKOVER is an important component for us to
further develop several Industry 4.0 projects. Andreas
Bergen, coordinator for procurement processes at Nolte
Kchen. Photo: Nolte Kchen
Issue 52 | July 2017 | 77
Discover Germany | Special Theme | Germanys Consulting Experts

Processline change management. Photo: Tom Merton, Avenue Images

Management change done differently

Business consultancy processline helps medium-sized companies to unfold their make a difficult decision between soft
full potential and keep up with the change of time. Thinking outside the box and skills or hard facts. We present the symbi-
ensuring an overall holistic and individual support are just some of processlines osis of both in connecting the classic pro-
many secrets to success. cess and project management skills with
a systematic consulting approach.
TEXT: MARILENA STRACKE | PHOTOS: PROCESSLINE
Over the years processline has specialised
During the past decade, our world has improved is often already on the compa- in complex projects in the field of change
changed like never before. With the rise nys leaders minds. But in order for it to management and is a trusted partner for
of the internet, social media and envi- be recognised as such, it requires an ex- upper medium-sized enterprises. Today,
ronmental consciousness, we all must pert outsider to point it out. processlines impressive portfolio includes
think a little differently. That is exactly the over 200 projects focusing on change
same for businesses, but often on a much CEO Jennifer Reckow, who founded management in about 100 companies.
bigger scale. Even well-established com- processline in 2002 during the stock mar-
panies have to ask one critical question: ket crash, remembers how it all started: I It should come as no surprise that
Does our business model stand the test recognised the necessity for companies to Reckow and her team of 20 consultants
of time? incorporate more organisational flexibil- were recently awarded the prestigious
ity and hence to be able to manage new seal of quality as Best Consultant 2017 in
Adjusting to changes that occur outside challenges with optimised structures and change management, transformation and
a company inevitably means embedding motivated loyal employees. reconstruction.
some internal changes as well. That is
where processline comes in. The essential I clearly hit a nerve, Reckow continues. We are very proud to be amongst the top
knowledge of what aspects need to be Previously, companies were forced to consultant agencies in Germany,enthus-

78 | Issue 52 | July 2017


es Reckow. Processline is a small giant.
I am particularly happy about reaching
outstanding marks in the category of
client evaluation. We work hard to be
amongst the best of the best and our cli-
ents recognise that.
Processline promotes custom-made solu-
tions that are developed together with a
companys management and staff. This
can be seen as one of processlines pil-
lars of success. For the team of experts at
processline, it is absolutely crucial to
properly include all employees and make
use of their know-how.
An open and regular information policy
strengthens everyones trust in the project
and the management alike and is also a vi-
tal part of processlines strategy. This over-
all approach ensures that a new structure
is not only filled with life right from the
start, but also - and more importantly - it
means that it is sustainable in the future.
Vertical integration is at the heart of
processlines philosophy and is fairly un-
usual within their industry. Their services
span across management, organisation and
CEO Jennifer Reckow.
Discover Germany | Special Theme | Germanys Consulting Experts
process consulting to project and change
management, but also include drafting
concrete work instructions or job descrip-
tions.
Looking at all aspects of a business as a
whole right from the start is certainly a
criterion that sets processline apart from
its competitors. The holistic approach
and the understanding that change man-
agement only succeeds if structure and
culture work hand in hand has resulted in
the companys excellent reputation.
Their clients range from municipal util-
ities, energy service providers and cable
network operators to telecommunication
companies, plant engineering and auto-
motive suppliers. There are also clients
from the pharmaceutical and chemical
industry.
We are currently receiving a lot of re-
quests from the health and finance sec-
tors, Reckow adds.Both industries need
some re-thinking during the next years in
order to meet the challenges the shifts in
our society and the global political land-
scape present.
With her extensive experience, Reckow is
also part of the board of the Federal Associ-
ation of German Management Consultants
(Bundesverbands Deutscher Unterneh-
mensberater BDU e.V.). The associations
purpose is the mutual exchange about in-
dustry trends and quality assurance in the
field of change management consultancy.
Reckow concludes: Here at processline
we understand the needs of medium-
sized companies and help our clients
giving birth to something new. We take
responsibility for them and the achieve-
ment of their goals. Looking beyond the
surface and thinking of changes that are
sustainable is part of our work.
To ensure that Reckow and her team are
able to provide top services at all times, it
goes without saying that she does not shy
away from analysing her own business:
For a consultancy and service company,
which supervises businesses when they
undergo changes, it is only natural to fre-
quently put ourselves to the test so that
we continue to grow with our clients.
www.processline.de
Issue 52 | July 2017 | 79
Discover Germany | Special Theme | Germanys Consulting Experts

CEO Michael Bitzer.

Lumics is a joint venture between McKinsey and Lufthansa Technik.

Lumics Consulting
CEO Dirk Mulzer.

Bottom-up change
Innovate simplify engage. These attributes are at the core of Lumics business tional and professional backgrounds. We
philosophy and consulting services. Through their highly specialised expertise, are a young team of highly experienced
the firm helps clients achieve the highest levels of productivity and quality in all of practitioners and experienced consult-
their maintenance, repair and overhaul activities as well as associated processes. ants in a company with flat hierarchies
and open doors. Every Lumics employee
TEXT: ELISABETH DOEHNE I PHOTOS: LUMICS GMBH & CO. KG has access to the management and can
and should help shape our company with
Our consulting follows more a bottom- aviation, but their vast portfolio also in- new ideas and their know-how, says
up rather than a top-down approach. cludes clients from heavy and chemical managing director Michael Bitzer. Look-
We work closely with our clients, enabling industries as well as defense and phar- ing forward, he believes that Lumics will
them to make changes. All communication maceutical companies. Currently, Lumics grow continuously, recruiting top talents
is open, direct, clear and authentic. This supports the Lufthansa Group during the and practitioners.
philosophy also means that Lumics does implementation of process orientation
not only help the companys top man- structures in many areas. End-to-end partnerships
agement, but we ensure that the working We are convinced that good advice not
environment is improved for all employees Sustainable change only helps the company but also increas-
from the board room to the shopfloor, Lumics supports the implementation of es the motivation and satisfaction of em-
explains managing director Dirk Mulzer. sustainable change through conceptu- ployees. We take the time to understand
alisation of business processes and the where the real problems lie, and well
Founded in 2013, Lumics is a 50/50 joint on-site implementation of their lean tackle them. Part of the Lumics claim is to
venture of Lufthansa Technik AG with management philosophy. Their industrial be seeing eye to eye with blue and white
the management consulting company background means experience in com- collar workers. We consider our job done
McKinsey & Company. Lumics has office plex production processes with the high- when we are truly convinced that our
locations in Hamburg and Frankfurt and est security requirements. clients can continually improve, states
their client base is truly diverse. Lumics managing director Dirk Mulzer.
background is maintenance, repair and Another asset is that all of the firms 60
overhaul processes with a clear focus on employees have a vast set of skills, educa- www.lumics-consulting.de

80 | Issue 52 | July 2017

 Discover Germany | Special Theme | Germanys Consulting Experts

GEOS Germany
A business enabler and partner for security worldwide
Almost every enterprise is aligned globally nowadays whether with the distribution With the services of GEOS Germany,
of its products and services, procurement of raw materials in other countries, or you receive a complete security package:
with assigning their staff to other countries for industrial projects. At the same time, continuous risk consulting and advice,
a rise of threats and all kind of risks is omnipresent: political ones, organised or qualified risk assessments and integra-
violent crimes, corruption, natural disasters and many more. tion in existing protection strategies
along with a global operative support.
TEXT: GEOS GERMANY | PHOTOS: FOTOLIA The tried-and-trusted management
experience of our staff at small, medi-
For company owners and management in ment and serves its clients worldwide, or um and large-scale enterprises provides
charge of human resources, this means rec- if you want to export your produced food the footing for our strategic expertise.
ognising the obligation to care for, as well products all over the world GEOS Ger- Contact us today for an informal first
as protect, employees and preventing any many offers preventive support in building meeting and find out how to improve
organisational failure. At the same time, up a proper security setup, including crisis your security organisation, concludes
company values need to stay protected. and emergency management procedures. Washausen.
We also support you in your operations
GEOS Germany, as part of the Group of infrastructural projects in critical regions GEOS Germany is at your side so you can
GEOS, supports clients in developing an worldwide. And, in case of an incident, you take better care of your daily business.
awareness for travel security as part of can always fall back on our emergency hot-
company security. We provide special line where our consultants advise you im- www.geos-germany.com
resources and know-how to support your mediately, notes Washausen. www.groupegeos.com
corporate security department and to build
up a crisis management organisation.
Our experts will advise your employees in
specifically designed security trainings as
well as intercultural training programmes
and if the worse comes to worse support
your crisis management teams in resolving
even a heavy crisis such as kidnapping
or extortion, explains Jens Washausen,
managing director of GEOS Germany.

It is of no importance if you are a global

player who acts in an industrial environ-

Issue 52 | July 2017 | 81

Discover Germany | Special Theme | Germanys Consulting Experts

Richard Hilton, managing director EMEA, Miller Heiman Group.

Analysis and transformation

Customers focus or customer-focus? Miller Heiman Group frontline research puts Group, serves as a basis for Miller Heiman
customer experience right at the centre of all sales. Groups own product innovations. They
deliver the data and benchmarks that
TEXT: CORNELIA BRELOWSKI | PHOTOS: 2017 MILLER HEIMAN GROUP allow Miller Heiman Group to support
companies with developing successful and
The customer as a person is a unique part- for any challenges an enterprise might professional strategies.
ner for any interaction related to sales. face within the sales and service division.
Ideally, the experience, or customer jour- For each phase of the selling process, the The Miller Heiman Group is the merger
ney, spans from a successful marketing Miller Heiman Group portfolio of sales of five leading providers for sales and ser-
strategy via the actual contact/service to training programmes offer just the right vice training within the USA. The roots of
the final conclusion/purchase. practice-oriented training. With more Miller Heiman, Achieve Global, Channel
than 60 branches worldwide and training Enablers, Huthwaite and Impact Learning
The latest research has shown that long- in 20 languages, the group is one of few Systems reach back to the 70s. The 2014
term oriented values in customer service consulting companies offering consistent merger therefore did not only pool the
eventually lead to greater revenue and staff training on an international level. competencies and product portfolios of
sustainable company growth. Their programmes are setting interna- five enterprises; the newly formed organ-
tional standards and count as the most isation also profits from the mutual sum
The new comprehensive approach of the attended ones within the sales and service of 150 years of experience in consultation
Miller Heiman Group supports clients sector, with more than 1.5 million alumni and staff training of customer organisa-
from organisation to talent assessment worldwide. tions.
and management through to process con-
sulting, by using the latest in digital train- The independent CSO insights research Miller Heiman Group clients are individ-
ing methods. The firm offers solutions company, part of the Miller Heiman uals like sales managers, striving to im-

82 | Issue 52 | July 2017

 Discover Germany | Special Theme | Germanys Consulting Experts

prove their teams performance, as well as
service managers who realise the growing
potential that customer service entails by
turning employees into brand ambassa-
dors. Another big part of Miller Heiman
Group clients are leaders who want to
support their staff in meeting future mar-
ket challenges regarding both service and
sales and who regard training as an effec-
tive investment into the future sustainabil-
ity of their company.
potential future regular user of a compa-
nys products and services. Thus, not only
do the staff members become brand am-
bassadors, but the customers as well.
Miller Heiman Group have come to the
conclusion that including customer jour-
ney analysis into any sales strategy will
lead to higher quota achievement and
increased revenue. Therefore, Sales Ena-
blement, Sales Transformation and Cus-
tomer Experience are at the focus of Miller
Heiman Group research and product de-
velopment. They pass on their classified
knowledge with products like their Be
Ready Solutions, both through their on-
line webinars and platform tools and face-
to-face consulting.
www.millerheimangroup.co.uk

For 2017, the Miller Heiman Group will

strengthen their position as an interna-
tional market leader. New and innovative
products and methods meet the growing
challenges that customer organisations
face at present. By developing, for exam-
ple, the Learner-Ready-Platform, face-
to-face training is being effectively com-
bined with the digital teaching of course
contents; an extension that is especially
useful for globally oriented teaching
initiatives.

The Miller Heiman Group will also con-

tinue to fulfil their pioneering role regard-
ing trends within the sales and service
sector, for example through boosting the
Sales Enablement function. Related re-
search lately has shown the effectiveness
of including service and marketing into
the sales strategy.

Sales Transformation is the resulting, im-

portant initiative. Instead of focusing on
one-off sales, the customer journey is
put at the centre of a long-term strategy.
It reaches from brand awareness, created Sales System.

through marketing, to sales and after-sales

support and allows a deeper custom-
er analysis, eventually leading to better
sales results. For example, Miller Heiman
Group believe in the customers own in-
itiative as a driving force for sales. They
advise you to build your enablement strat-
egy around letting the customer drive the
conversation, while the sales professional
guides it down the right path to the en-
visioned solution and outcome. They also
suggest to constantly analyse customer
behaviours that enable a sales team to be
responsive and nimble to make on-the-
fly adjustments. In short, it helps to take
the customer seriously, both as a person
who expects a certain experience and as a Be Ready Solutions.

Issue 52 | July 2017 | 83

Discover Germany | Special Theme | Germanys Consulting Experts

The management team from the left: Dr. Thorsten Liebehenschel,

HPP Consulting
Andr Khler, Uwe Harnischfeger, Robin Desens and Roland Pietsch.

German marketing and strategy

specialist for the digital revolution
Founded in 1996, the Frankfurt-based consultancy HPP Consulting, which trained in the company, own HPP as major
focuses on marketing and strategy optimisation, supports their clients growth shareholders, employing a staff of 60 highly
through discovering new market possibilities. While the origins of the consultancy qualified people.
are in the automotive sector, their portfolio has continuously widened. Nowadays,
HPP Consulting has, next to projects in various technology and service industries, In its 20 years of doing business, the con-
established a second core focus in the telecommunication sector. Currently, all sultancy has emancipated itself from its
these sectors are facing the challenges of digital transformation. Challenges that former parent company Daimler, but is
the consultants at HPP are more than willing to address. still uniquely tied to the automotive sector.
It has also developed extensive expertise
TEXT: THOMAS SCHROERS I PHOTO: HPP CONSULTING within the telecommunication sector. We
have always chosen a path of qualitative
Initially, HPP was a business segment for ough restructuring gave the new company growth, explains Uwe Harnischfeger,
the Daimler daughter debis Marketing its strategic foundation and new name, founder and managing partner. It has been
Services. Integrated in the company, the the HPP Harnischfeger, Pietsch & Partner the choice for this path that enabled HPP
segment became a success and conse- Straegie- und Marketingberatung GmbH. to establish itself in the fast-changing en-
quently an independent business. A thor- Since 2016, five partners, who were all vironments of their core markets and with

84 | Issue 52 | July 2017


regard to modern topics like digitalisation.
Currently, it is the latter that continues to
transform business and social life at large
and initiate exciting projects for HPP.
Challenges of digitalisation
In the automotive sector, digitalisation
has become an item of daily news. Catch-
phrases are connected cars, e-mobility,
online sales and digital sales tools. Not
only is the car itself revolutionised by
technological advancements, the facilitat-
ing business structures around it are as
well. For the automotive sector, the main
challenges arise when it comes to the sales
and service process. The processes have to
be translated into the digital environment
and they have to be implemented into re-
tail organisation. Nowadays, digitalisation
is an integral component of each automo-
tive project that HPP does. Next to the
development of digital products, business
models and processes, early attention
should be directed to brand integration,
clear positioning and customer commu-
nication. And not only in terms of func-
tionality, but in relation to the added value
Discover Germany | Special Theme | Germanys Consulting Experts
for the customer. When this value is not
obvious, something is preventing develop-
ments, explains HPP Partner Dr. Thorsten
Liebehenschel.
Digitalisation expertise
Due to constant training and education
activities, HPP Consulting has accumu-
lated experience and expertise in digital
transformation. In the value chain of digi-
tal transformation, the customer journey is
identified as a core item for change. When
developing this customer journey, HPP
follows a holistic approach that reviews
all influencing factors. Starting with the
definition of a target picture, this process
follows a constant reviewing of the status
quo in relation to the target state. In order
to truly make the change to a successful,
digitalised customer journey, HPPs con-
sulting is further addressing internal and
external challenges in adaptation. Various
instruments are used for different market,
customer and competition analysis, all of
which become a part of the main process
of identifying and solving these adapta-
tion challenges.
Know-how and do how
HPP Partner Andr Khler explains that
the companys strength lies in being aware
of the know-how, knowing what should be
done, and the do how, knowing how this
can be done. Because of this line of think-
ing, a topic like digitalisation is not just ab-
stract and theoretical for the consultants,
but a lived and applied practice. For HPP,
combining both the know-how and do
how has been the key to an international
customer base and projects for markets in-
cluding Japan, China and the US. It has also
led to acknowledgements by publications
like the German business magazine brand
eins, which rated HPP Consulting among
the best German marketing, brand and
pricing consultancies in 2016. As the rating
took the reputation within the consulting
industry, as well as client satisfaction into
account, HPPs management team is proud
of their achievement. Acknowledgments
like this reassure the qualitative path HPP
has followed for 20 years and continues to
follow as the digital revolution plays out.
www.hpp-consulting.de
Issue 52 | July 2017 | 85
Discover Germany | Special Theme | Germanys Consulting Experts
A holistic approach to company optimisation
When consultant Jochen Schmid tackles a project, everybody is included, from
top management throughout the complete hierarchy down to the basis.
TEXT: CORNELIA BRELOWSKI I PHOTOS: PROMAPROD
Following on the motto of breaking down
layers and talking to people, not only to
receive relevant information but also to
implement change at both management
and base levels, Jochen Schmids hands-
on mentality helps with losing fear and
realising the advantages and added value
coming with change.
Tackling problems together with an on-
site team, the consultant believes in the
principle of the sum of little steps, eventu-
ally leading to a lasting result. A strong im-
plementation expert and emphatic prob-
lem solver, Jochen Schmid acts goal and
decision-oriented, while providing both
support and challenge for the team.
With 25 years of professional experience
under his belt in total, the engineer looks
back on a decade of consulting and 15
successful mandates as interim manager.
Methodical Supply Chain Management
(SCM) knowledge to a Lean Six Sigma
Black Belt level, profound SAP exper-
tise as well as years of leadership experi-
ence within the producing industry make
86 | Issue 52 | July 2017
within a company. In fact, Jochen Schmid
Jochen Schmid the go-to address when it
comes to efficient company optimisation.
With a focus on SCM, he acts on a
cross-sector level in the producing indus-
tries, from the engineering and automo-
bile sector to pharmaceutical and chem-
ical companies, through to sanitary and
energy systems providers. As a mechan-
ical engineer with a profound business
management background, he provides his
expertise for top leading and project man-
agement positions.
Apart from analysis and consulting,
Jochen Schmid also takes on the actual
implementation process, from planning to
realisation. With the ultimate goal of fos-
tering financial and production efficiency,
Jochen Schmid also provides insights into
further important topics, making SCM a
central and strategically important field of
enterprise policy.
Beginning with the overall project to
subsection through to specific measure,
Jochen Schmid acts strategically as well as
Jochen Schmid, SCM interim manager.
tactically and operationally. Through long
years of experience, he also has an eye
for synergies of SCM with other divisions
looks at himself as an SCM generalist.
He constantly keeps both goals and results
of a project in mind, while analysing and
optimising both structures and processes
from an integral point of view.
His clients, mostly entrepreneurs and
owners of medium-sized companies with-
in the producing industries, enjoy services
from project planning and management,
sales order processing and purchasing op-
timisation, through to intralogistics and
cross-sectoral processes.
My mandates, first and foremost, deal
with optimising organisational structures
and processes. Simple as it sounds, pro-
found expertise and know-how, as well
as a sound knowledge of team leadership,
are actually needed to effectively imple-
ment change. With a palette of optimising
methods at the ready, his excellent SAP
know-how and a high personal flexibili-
ty, Jochen Schmid sees a project through
while also allowing the overall process to
become transparent, much to his clients
benefit.
www.schmid-scm.de
 Discover Germany | Special Theme | Germanys Consulting Experts

TurnFriendly CEO
Marco Rothberg.

Customer Experience Management with TurnFriendly.

The smart way to Customer

Experience Management
From start-up to hidden champion, TurnFriendly, founded by Marco Rothberg its many features can be customised for
in 2001, has developed from a simple idea to a comprehensive Customer the requirements of currently more than
Experience Management System. Working as an IT consultant, Rothberg saw that 10,000 individual users worldwide. In
customers were seldom asked about their opinion or input for a solution. From this TurnFriendly, all factors that shape the
insight, development on TurnFriendly, a software assisting customer experience customer experience come together.
management in all kinds of environments, began. Starting with requests, the software is
integrating sales, different web portals,
TEXT: THOMAS SCHROERS I PHOTOS: TURNFRIENDLY analysis and reporting, gained knowledge
and feedback.
In 2000, during one of Rothbergs early ly to a comprehensive Customer Expe-
projects in the banking sector, it became rience Management System and turned Through the feedback gained by their
necessary to ask customers about their Rothbergs company into a hidden cham- customers and consequent application to
opinion regarding real-time stock quota- pion with deep knowledge in the banking TurnFriendly, Rothberg and his team have
tions. To do so, a first version of a web- and tourism sector. Regarding tourism, I become experts in Customer Experience
based questionnaire was created over the have to thank Willi Verhuven of Alltours. Management. Therefore, clients such as
course of nine months. The questionnaire When Alltours asked if TurnFriendly the Deutsche Bank not only profit from
was tested and quickly a difficulty arose: could be applied to manage complaints the software solution, they also learn from
What happens when the customer is not in tourism, it opened up whole new av- the deep insights and sector-related know-
satisfied? enues for us. ledge of the company. In the future, the in-
dependent hidden champion will continu-
It was obvious that we needed to start a Not only is the software web-based and ously refine its own product, thus following
dialogue with the customer and that com- easy to use, it can also be used company- its ambition to grow and Rothbergs motto:
panies need to understand complaints wide without limits of multi-client ca- Only who really knows his customers
and professionally process them,explains pabilities. Through automatic allocation needs, will make fans out of clients.
Rothberg. A whole new development cy- of cases, TurnFriendly saves the cus-
cle began, one that expanded TurnFriend- tomer experience managers time, while www.turnfriendly.com

Issue 52 | July 2017 | 87

Discover Germany | Special Theme | Germanys Consulting Experts

WARGITSCH & COMP. AGs headquarters in Bavaria.

Responsiveness is key for adapting to

an ever-changing business world
WARGITSCH & COMP. AG is an agency that dedicates its work to all aspects of bodies and are therefore refused, says
transformation processes. With many years of experience, the agency, based Dr. Christoph Wargitsch. Often enough,
in Bavaria, advises its clients but also provides concrete tools and training that transformation processes fail not be-
enable clients to help themselves in future. Service, tools and training are the three cause of how they are implemented, but
pillars that guarantee a successful business transformation. because mistakes had already been made
in the design. This is why WARGITSCH &
TEXT: JESSICA HOLZHAUSEN | PHOTOS: WARGITSCH & COMP. AG COMP. AG not only offers traditional con-
sultancy work, but tangible tools that help
But why is transformation so important for WARGITSCH & COMP. AG has devel- companies to work out their transforma-
companies at all?When companies do not oped a framework for helping companies tion process on their own.
adjust regularly to a changing environment, with transformation processes that can be
the risk heightens that they will not survive summed up with four easy words: Think. When Dr. Wargitsch still worked as a young
in the long term, says CEO Dr. Christoph Design. Plan. Do.What is most important project manager and moderator, he often
Wargitsch. Adaptation at best happens is not to take over the transformation com- wished for tools that could help him mod-
as conscious and actively led, structured pletely, because this means that chang- erate the wild discussions and stressful
transformation process that brings a com- es and protagonists are seen as a foreign workshops. What already existed were un-
pany from state A to an envisioned state B.
WARGITSCH & COMP. AG mainly works
for internationally operating companies,
often in the automotive sector. In their ap-
proach, the consultants follow the logic of
Charles Darwin and the idea that respon-
siveness is key to survival or, as Darwin has
put it: It is not the strongest of the species
that survives, nor the most intelligent, but
the one most responsive to change. The
same applies to companies: responsiveness Dr. Christina Weigert,
means the ability to transform and adapt to head of marketing and
Dr. Christoph Wargitsch, CEO. Monika Lamby, CFO. product development.
a dynamic market.

88 | Issue 52 | July 2017


structured whiteboards or white flipcharts
on the one hand, and structured software
tools on the other. But here only one person
could work on a project at a time.
How do you bring both together? With
analogue transformation tools that are
not only effective but also fun to work with
and address certain management groups
or processes directly. WARGITSCH &
COMP. AG developed paper-based tools
as well as magnetic ones to be used on a
whiteboard. The Scrum & Kanban Toolkit
for example supports collaborative pro-
ject management in providing different
categories that differentiate the status of
actions to be taken. A similar kit exists for
example for value chains; it is designed
to ideally depict and visualise sequential
connections and the different processes
that form a value chain, using different
shapes and colours. The same idea shaped
all the other tools available, allowing for
example to easily create a business mod-
el. All tools can be bought directly online
(www.analog-transformation.tools).
Process Modeling Toolkit.
Discover Germany | Special Theme | Germanys Consulting Experts
Next to these analogue tools, WARGITSCH
& COMP. AG also provides software solu-
tions. Even though they are not software
developer themselves, the transformation
agency has partners in the IT sector that can
develop the necessary software solutions.
Additionally, to analogue and virtual tools
the company also offers high-class training
programmes to prepare management and
staff for transformation processes and give
them the necessary knowledge at hand.
What most clients appreciate is the con-
sultants ability to function as connector
between business and IT, which is even
more important for processes that con-
nect and intertwine both. One challenge
currently in many companies focus is the
so-called digital transformation the em-
bodiment of new technology into busi-
ness. One can currently observe a hype
around this special form of transforma-
tion. That IT allows new business mod-
els and process changes is indeed noth-
ing new, but the amount of possibilities
has rapidly grown through the dynamic
Value Chain Toolkit.
Scrum & Kanban Toolkit.
All tools available at
www.analog-tranformation.tools
of todays interconnectivity, explains Dr.
Wargitsch. But even here transformation
includes more than reforming IT struc-
tures or going mobile, it always also in-
cludes the consolidation of legacy IT and
existing processes.
Indeed even though at the heart of
digitalisation Digi-Labs and internet
start-ups are heavy users of post-it notes
and flipcharts simply because they are
so practical and their haptic inspires the
creative process. WARGITSCH & COMP.
AGs transformation tool kits address
exactly that. Compared to simply scrib-
bling on paper they also have the ad-
vantage that they can be re-shuffled and
re-written without making a complete
mess of the chart. Overall, having the
right approach to transformations and
the right tools and training is the basis for
a successful process of change in a com-
pany no matter if the transformation is
analogue or digital.
www.wargitsch.com
Issue 52 | July 2017 | 89
Discover Germany | Special Theme | Germanys Consulting Experts

COMATCH founders Dr. Christoph Hardt (left) and Dr. Jan Schchtele (right), two former McKinsey consultants.

Mind the gap

Bring your project to completion with the help of a COMATCH, a digital marketplace Those interested in finding a consultant
filling in resource and knowledge gaps for international projects with top-calibre can start the process at any time online
independent consultants. With their quick-acting algorithm, they can match any by filling out a project briefing form, or
project to a talented pool of specialised experts. via a phone conversation with a CO-
MATCH account manager. Either way, it
TEXT: JAIME HEATHER SCHWARTZ | PHOTOS: PHIL DERA will only take about ten minutes before
your request is ready to be run through
We created a digital model that works panies of all sizes, including seven from the the matching algorithm. One of the
with independent consultants and intro- DAX30. COMATCH was founded by Dr. things our customers really value is how
duces quality criteria to a market that for Jan Schchtele and Dr. Christoph Hardt, fast we can connect them with a qualified
too long was not transparent, says Dr. both former consultants themselves, and is consultant, says Dr. Hardt. Within just
Christoph Hardt, COMATCH co-founder currently active worldwide. Their freelance 48 hours our clients are given three to
and managing partner. And this has consultants are especially engaged with five matching consultant profiles to look
worked. In the last two years alone we projects in the DACH countries, France, through and in urgent cases we can make
have realised over 450 projects with com- Benelux, the Nordics and the Middle East. that happen even faster.

90 | Issue 52 | July 2017


Based on the project briefing, the
COMATCH algorithm is able to identify
suitable consultants for the project. The
selection is then narrowed down through
a second individual screening process be-
fore the best options are presented. The
client can review potential candidates CVs
as well as set up interviews with poten-
tial consultants in order to make the final
decision. This is again where our digital
platform really demonstrates its advan-
tages, says Dr. Hardt. A client can really
set up projects and finish tasks 24/7. That
means even on a Sunday evening a client
can be making feedback requests or re-
viewing candidates.
Matching great minds with great
projects
COMATCH is proud of providing a mar-
ketplace of highly qualified independent
consultants with diverse backgrounds
and skill sets. They have gathered an in-
ternational pool of around 2,500 indepen-
dent consultants who are native speakers
from over 50 countries. In general, their
candidates are about half management
consultants, almost the majority of whom
have professional experience working at
top consulting firms like BCG, McKinsey
The COMATCH consultant network. COMATCH
Discover Germany | Special Theme | Germanys Consulting Experts
or Roland Berger. The other half is gen-
erally, but not limited to, finance and in-
dustry experts, who have often spent time
at top firms.
Through their careful two-tiered selec-
tion process, COMATCH can gather an
exemplary roster of consulting experts,
which in turn creates a mutually benefi-
cial situation. Clients get to choose from
top-level candidates, and COMATCH is
able to provide talented consultants with
a way for them to do their best work. As
independent contractors, consultants are
more motivated for each project they take
on, coming in with a fresh perspective
and innovative approach. Continually
working on new projects also keeps them
abreast of the latest trends and allows
them to continually hone their expertise
and skills.
Successes are celebrated together
COMATCH itself is a diverse team of 40
who hail from ten different countries,
and everyone on board is well-versed
in the consulting field. The marketplace
that they have created goes beyond the
old model of consulting firms and really
reaches the needs of the contemporary,
digital workplace. We operate almost
more on a startup-like mentality that
allows us to be more hands-on and dy-
namic, Dr. Hardt explains. Our clients
appreciate this working style, its fast, still
very personal and flexible, and we can
meet their demands with confidence in-
stead of tight control.
Another element that contributes to
the success of COMATCH is their close
attention to both sides of the experi-
ence. Client feedback is important to
COMATCH as it allows the platform to
continually improve. Through honest re-
views COMATCH can offer more trans-
parency to clients and maintain the high
calibre of their pool of consultants. We
are proud to say that we have received
9.2 of ten possible points in evaluations
by our clients and we know their satisfac-
tion to be true as many have returned to
us and used our services for further pro-
jects, says Dr. Hardt. The approach has
clearly been a success as COMATCH is
currently the largest European player in
the field of marketplaces and platforms
for independent consultants.
www.comatch.com
COMATCH finds the perfect consultant for your project.
COMATCH
Issue 52 | July 2017 | 91
Discover Germany | Special Theme | Germanys Consulting Experts

Strategic succession planning ensures a smooth transition

InterSearch Executive Consultants GmbH & Co. KG is a HR consulting firm and ly 2016 through an online survey with more
recently determined in a study how to ensure the best outcome when handling than 200 participants. InterSearch focused
a succession. It states that every second company only thinks about filling age- on the first and second management lev-
related vacancies when they finally arise and do not plan accordingly. el of companies from trade, industry and
service sectors with more than 250 em-
TEXT: JESSICA HOLZHAUSEN | PHOTO: RYANKING999, DREAMSTIME.COM ployees. InterSearch Executive Consultants
has German offices in Hamburg, Cologne,
Management has become strategically coordinate strategic succession planning Frankfurt and Munich and belongs to a
more relevant and personnel planning with their overall strategy. worldwide network of HR consulting firms
more complicated. Every second compa- Often enough, key talents and lead- with more than 100 offices in 50 countries.
ny names the grown requirements for ership potentials remain undetected, the
example the digital transformation or the study claims based on data collected in ear- www.intersearch-executive.de
dynamic of markets as one of the main
obstacles. But less than one in three com-
panies has a proactive approach to deal
with the challenges of arising vacancies
through age or other reasons. Strategic
succession planning is very rare and the
implementation incomplete. With that,
companies risk the loss of know-how.
While 40 per cent at least consider suc-
cession planning for the first and second
management level, most do not include
the third or other important key positions.
Above that only half of the companies
 Discover Germany | Special Theme | Germanys Consulting Experts

Streamlined for success

Left: Optimisation of candidate management workshop.
Right: Andrea Kaden as office raider.

Zeitgewinn gives you back your time

and a better work-life balance
It is becoming increasingly apparent that when it comes to creating success in the adapt in a timely manner; whether in re-
business world, less is more. However, knowing when, where and how to streamline gards to how the workplace is organised
your office or personal work activities is not necessarily easy on your own. or how to communicate with customers.

TEXT: JAIME HEATHER SCHWARTZ I PHOTOS: RALF WESTPHAL
Many of my clients are feeling stressed,
overwhelmed and feel like they are lack-
ing structure, says Zeitgewinn director
Andrea Kaden. I help them find their
way back to a place where they can start
working smarter not harder, which gives
them a chance to rediscover their crea-
tivity and make room for new ideas.
One of the main goals of Zeitgewinn is
creating a paperless office. Kaden shows
clients how they can lose the paper trail
and gain more mobility and flexibili-
ty. Instead of folders and storage boxes,
she demonstrates how a digital office
can save on costs and actually provide
easier access to archived information.
Kaden says: Part of what I love about my
work most is when I motivate my clients
so much that they start to come up with
their own ideas about how they can im-
prove.
Inspired by the likes of the Kaizen prin-
ciple and other lean methods, Ms. Kaden
has her own system: the Lean Digital
Office. Besides process optimisations
and digitalising, she offers clients an in-
dividualised approach rooted in fulfilling
the needs of the business end and the
customer side as well. Her tips and tools
are complementary to the New Work
concept that is becoming a global trend.
From new technologies to changing de-
mands, businesses need to respond and
I teach clients how to hone in on what
is important, says Kaden. When there
is too little structure there is no time for
strategic thinking. We only react instead
of having time to reflect as well, and this
can hold us back from achieving all that
is possible.An optimised, efficient struc-
ture is better equipped to keep things
moving forward and recognise when
something is not working. Of course,
changes do not have to happen immedi-
ately or be adopted in a radical fashion.
Sharing her experience, Kaden says: I
find that continuous small steps towards
improvement are what really end up cre-
ating lasting, and larger, changes.
www.zeitgewinn-hamburg.de
www.mrs-paperless.com

Issue 52 | July 2017 | 93

Discover Germany | Special Theme | Germanys Consulting Experts

CEO Dr. Inacker and his team.

Communication is the key

The WMP Eurocom AG, an independent communications agency based in Berlin serves as CEO of the WMP Eurocom AG.
and with offices in Frankfurt, Munich and Hamburg, is very aware of the necessity He has extensive experience in the media
for communication in todays business climate. Whoever does not communicate world, for example as a managing editor of
properly will soon be out-communicated by competitors. Since its foundation the WELT am Sonntag, as well as in lead-
in 1998, WMP has worked with its diverse clients to establish sustainable ing corporate functions at Daimler AG and
communication strategies regarding all relevant topics. Metro AG.

TEXT: THOMAS SCHROERS | PHOTOS: WMP EUROCOM AG 360-degree consultations

In its almost 20 years in the field, WMP
has been shaped by various influences. Of
course, there are developments with re-
gard to the market and clients, but more
than anything else it has been the different
notable personalities, from the founders to
current managers, who made the agency
what it is today. While the founders were
entrepreneur Roland Berger, long-time
German foreign minister Hans-Dietrich
Genscher, Ulf and Ernst-Wilhelm Rit-
tinghaus, as well as Ludger Staby, former
managing editor of the Bild newspaper
Hans-Hermann Tiedje has led the com-
pany for the longest time. Starting as
a board member in 2000, he went on to
become chairman and is currently head
of the board of directors. Over the years,
many more personalities have worked
with WMP and made their projects suc-
cess stories.
Among them are Bernd Schiphorst,
head of the board of directors at Her-
tha BSC, political consultant Klaus-Peter
Schmidt-Deguelle, former business sec-
retary Gnter Rexrodt and former Porsche
CEO Wendelin Wiedeking and former
Mercedes and Metro CEO Eckhard Cord-
es. At the moment, Dr. Michael J Inacker
Based on their values of trust, discretion,
dependability and open-mindedness, the
consultants at WMP approach each pro-
ject with complete transparency towards
their clients and an ethical code of con-
duct. With an extensive network in the
German economy, media and politics, the
agency is able to offer services that include
all fields of communication. Among them
are public relations, financial communi-
cation, crisis communication, healthcare,
litigation PR and digital communication.
Speaking the journalism language is one
of the most important aspects of the con-
sultancy work. With longstanding experi-

94 | Issue 52 | July 2017

 Discover Germany | Special Theme | Germanys Consulting Experts

ence talking this language and invaluable

contacts to relevant decision makers in
media, business and politics, WMP is able
to support its customers at all times with
the necessary penetration power.

Holistic communication
One example for illustrating WMPs
unique market position and abilities can
be found in financial communication. As
for any topic, WMP takes a holistic ap-
proach. Rather than just communicating
numbers, the agency is interested in for-
mulating messages of social and political
relevance. Looking beyond the pages of
the business section, it can present infor-
mation and react to situations in whole
different ways. Be it in a crisis or normal Digital Communication is a key at WMP.
situation, it is valuable to notice in advance
whether communication is needed. For
both types of situations, WMP develops
the right narrative and point of view with
thoughtful sensibility and diligence.

Networking across borders

In the future, WMP aims to continue its
growth process. Currently, the agency is
developing international partnerships
that will enable a client base from all
kinds of geographical backgrounds. Tak-
ing this stance and following this poten-
tial is needed, as Germanys internation-
al importance continues to grow. WMP
Eurocom anticipates a further trend: as
the countrys importance rises, there will
Head of the board of directors Hans-Hermann Tiedje.
be other states and governments that aim
to be represented properly in the German
public. For these parties, WMP has adapt-
ed one of their core competences, Nation
Branding, and will continue to invest in
the matter.

Many CEOs may be reserved when it

comes to the media landscape including
digital platforms. Especially in relation to
sensible sectors and complex situations it
is difficult to find the proper way of com-
municating. For many businesses, this
is a challenge. For WMP Eurocom, it is a
challenge worth taking. Mastering it ena-
bles real growth and a sustainable market
presence. To achieve this, WMP is a strong
partner, lending support at all times and
constantly communicating your message.

Working at WMP.
www.wmp-ag.de

Issue 52 | July 2017 | 95

Discover Germany | Special Theme | Germanys Consulting Experts

Shaping the future together

Management consultancy PROTEMA helps companies recognise and unfold their across the globe in the areas of strategy
full potential. With headquarters in Stuttgart and a branch in Detroit, PROTEMA and process consulting, plant and logis-
understands the international playing field and works hand in hand with their tic engineering and simulation as well as
clients to boost growth rates efficiently and sustainably. transformation in the meaning of change
management, organisation development
TEXT: MARILENA STRACKE | PHOTOS: PROTEMA and personnel development.

A successful company will never rest on
its laurels, but instead it will continuous-
ly look at how to improve performance
and customer satisfaction. There is always
a way to grow as a business, but even
within top companies it is often difficult
to really pinpoint problem areas and find
long-term solutions. Just like for all of us,
sometimes it is hard to see the wood for
the trees.
Like a good friend who sits down with us,
listens and talks a problem through, con-
sultancy PROTEMA supports companies
Working hand in hand with their clients is
an integral part of their corporate philos-
ophy and has been a bulletproof success
recipe for over two decades. PROTEMA
represents the PROcess-oriented con-
nection between TEchnology and huMAn
resources in a performance-oriented or-

96 | Issue 52 | July 2017


Executive management of PROTEMA Group.
ganisation, says Michael Mezger, one of
four management partners.
Companies often consult with PROTEMA
when they are facing the question of
whether they are able to grow further
at their current location, or if a move to
green field sites is necessary.
Mezger explains: If the decision has been
taken in favour of green field sites, we help
to find the ideal location and achieve the
move through different expansion stages
and in line with the business develop-
ment. If it makes more sense for the com-
pany to remain at its original location, we
evaluate and develop other options for ex-
panding and realising change on site.
Discover Germany | Special Theme | Germanys Consulting Experts
PROTEMA has an impressive interna-
tional track record and the team of 60
consultants has the capability to take on
a large number of projects. We introduce
process-oriented organisation and busi-
ness process management with multiple
organisations in order for the company to
independently maintain and expand the
addressed areas after our work is done,
Mezger adds.
He continues: Our services are relevant
for medium-sized companies. We usually
work with the owner family or the man-
aging director in that sector and we speak
the clients language, emphasising practi-
cal solutions that are feasible.
Larger corporations demand a different
approach and PROTEMA works direct-
ly with the management to complement
ambitious complex goals with concrete
measures and hence realise the objec-
tives accordingly. Previous clients include
a variety of well-known brands such as
Daimler, Bosch, Birkenstock, Porsche, Fes-
to, Trumpf, BMW, BBraun and Airbus to
name but a few.
At the moment, we focus on the automo-
tive and supplier industry, mechanical and
plant engineering, consumer goods sector
and retail. We can offer in-depth specialist
expertise in the fields of automotive after-
market as well as spare parts management,
after sales and services for capital goods.
There is no one-solution-fits-all ap-
proach and at PROTEMA it is under-
stood that people, not principles, move
times forward. Following that philosophy,
PROTEMA employs a diverse team of
high-profile consultants, planners, ex-
perts, coaches and trainers who not only
bring their outstanding expertise to the
table, but also their individual personality.
Aside from senior consultants with prov-
en success rates, recent graduates are also
part of the team as they bring fresh per-
spectives and creative solutions. That mix
of different personalities who are all highly
empathetic and determined, and the skill
to match the right consultant with the
right company or project, gives PROTEMA
a clear advantage over their competition.
It should come as no surprise that
PROTEMA has been announced TOP
CONSULTANT by compamedia eight times
in a row already and four times in a row
by Brand eins and Statistik as well as many
other awards and excellent customer eval-
uations such as the benchpark rating. Plac-
ing great importance on their employees
and relationships, they have also been
awarded best employer.
Just like their client companies are always
growing and expanding, PROTEMA is
looking to develop and strengthen various
new parts of their own service in the future.
We want to master the challenge, which
the digitalisation of business models in the
consultancy industry represents. The goal
is to become an equally well-known con-
sultant when it comes to agility and dig-
italisation, appeases Dr. Jrg Pirron, also
one of four management partners.
Transformation within companies with
European footprints in all countries is
another big subject we would like to ex-
pand as it demands keeping cultural and
country-specific aspects in mind, Dr.
Pirron concludes. Lastly, we want to keep
living up to our reputation of providing
holistic consultancy under one roof.
Living for their clients success, the team at
PROTEMA welcome new challenges and
are ready to ignite your journey into the
future.
www.protema.de
Issue 52 | July 2017 | 97
Discover Germany | Special Theme | Germanys Consulting Experts

The path towards total interconnectivity

challenges and chances for SMEs
Every manufacturing company has probably already dealt with Industry 4.0. depicted as a digital process. However, the
Unquestionably, Industry 4.0 or IoT (Internet of Things) offers incredible potential processs complete digitalisation from
and numerous possibilities for improvement, such as process improvement or the the commission or ideally from the order
fostering of new business models. The latter are the result of data that emerges initiation to the provision of raw materials,
through new technical possibilities - either on site or at the client. surveillance and control of production, to
automated shipping and delivery, invoic-
TEXT: JENS HORSTMANN, BOARD OF TREVISTO AG; TRANSLATION: NANE STEINHOFF | PHOTOS: TREVISTO ing and accounting is not consistently
implemented. Manual steps or analogue
However, total interconnectivity also holds way towards complete digitalisation thus aids are commonplace. These situations
challenges. Industrial companies from the falls short due to practical and technical not only hold optimisation possibilities
DACH region especially SMEs (small conditions. To use each manufacturers re- through analytics but also solid saving
and medium-sized enterprises) usually spective analytical system will bring about potential through process improvement,
face one or more of these. information about one specific machine inventory reduction and more.
but a comprehensive overview is simply
Heterogeneous machine parks not possible. Additionally, the transfer of Grown IT infrastructure
Usually companies comprise heterogene- gained knowledge from one machine to At its core, the central company IT consists
ous machine parks that further complicate another, and thus the implementation of of an ERP system, which is often based on
uniform digitalisation. Machines from uniform results into uniform reactions, outdated technology. Built from demands
different generations and with different seems impossible. of different times, the systems were further
control systems exist. The machine man- fortified with the expectation to exchange
ufacturers analytical systems often only Incomplete process digitalisation them soon. Many time periods later, they
take machines of one generation into ac- Often individual subdivisions, such as the hardly offer any expansion potential and
count and ignore machines of other man- process from a commission to the machine a changeover to digital processes and
ufacturers or generations. The quickest and to the manufacturing feedback, are their connection to interfaces represent

98 | Issue 52 | July 2017


a seemingly insurmountable hurdle. As
a first task, the change of the central IT
would be listed on the digitalisation list.
An aggravating factor is the purchase of
different IT systems during company ac-
quisitions. These might be sufficient for
the current tasks at individual branches,
but they cause major problems while de-
picting comprehensive, generalised pro-
cesses. Often, isolated, rural company lo-
cations are simply the obstacle to a central
network due to a weak digital connection.
Fearing change
Employees from all levels fear new pro-
cesses, production methods and findings
that can be derived from new data. They
see it as threats to their jobs or they fear
that the loss of expertise that seemingly
goes hand in hand with it reduces their
value in the company. These fears are a bar
to change and pose a threat to successful
project implementation. Without the sup-
port of know-how carriers, projects with
such high change potential can hardly be
sensibly realised.
Further developing IT
For the central IT department, an inevi-
table development is imminent: from a
bothersome cost centre to a fixed part of
the value chain. It needs to participate in
developing new business models and in
contributing to value creation. The IT de-
partments human resources are, however,
usually not geared towards supporting
Discover Germany | Special Theme | Germanys Consulting Experts
such complex processes. There is a lack
of experts that are qualified to meet the
contentual and technical challenges of
digitalisation and that comprise economic
and technical know-how to enhance old
business models or to develop entirely
new ones. In summary, it can be said that
comprehensive in-house changes, as well
as additional know-how, is needed for
such projects. At the same time, a com-
petent change management is needed
to involve employees in the change and
thus, to secure their motivation and com-
mitment.
The solution?
First of all, a clear strategy with a big pic-
ture is needed. A comprehensive solu-
tion with a focus on holistic digitalisation
seems inappropriate due to the men-
tioned obstacles. But, even with step-by-
step procedure, vision and strategy for
digitalisation are indispensable.
The second decisive factor is workforce
training and the expansion of project
teams through experienced advisors.
Many tasks need know-how in areas
in which little or no expert knowledge
is found within a company. Workforce
strengthening, know-how development
and partial consultation of experienced
specialists thus seem sensible.
The third factor is the identification of
lighthouse projects that convince sceptics
within a company and that keep stake-
holders happy. The measure that brings
about the largest possible benefit and
has the best chance of success needs to
be identified. When one starts with such
projects, one achieves the stakeholders
acceptance of the strategy. This simplifies
change management and secures financ-
ing and continuation.
The fourth factor is project division into
individual projects, so-called loops. Con-
trolling and measuring these is easier and
thus, secures the overall projects success.
Mistakes become lessons learned and
improve the follow-up project as well as
market changes can be considered.
Conclusion
The challenges are diverse and complex.
Grown company structures and systems
are often difficult to transform into a digi-
tal process. The enormous complexity of
a large digitalisation project often leads
into dead ends, success often comes later
and the risk of stakeholders dropping out
early is great. Creating a clear digitalisa-
tion strategy, identifying exemplary pro-
jects, dividing projects into learning loops
and strengthening internal and external
know-how not only make digitalisation
manageable it turns into a future op-
portunity for companies. The first step?
Starting!
www.trevisto.de
Issue 52 | July 2017 | 99
Discover Germany | Special Theme | Germanys Consulting Experts

Mobile devices. Photo: Fotolia

Embracing the future through a

successful digital transformation
SEVEN PRINCIPLES AG, based in Cologne, is specialised in digitalising business 1. A pioneering spirit allows keeping
models. No matter if an international corporation or a small-scale business: up with the newest trends and
everyone needs mobile devices and solutions to accelerate processes, to gain developments.
and process data in real-time, close gaps in communication and, in the end, save 2. Participation in success means that
money. SEVEN PRINCIPLES AG develops successful mobility strategies for various employees benefit from the companys
business sectors. success as well.
3. Performance: SEVEN PRINCIPLES
TEXT: JESSICA HOLZHAUSEN supports clients by creating perfectly
fitting services and solutions.
To be competitive in a changing market and this is often a riddle for companies. SEVEN 4. Perfection, because quality is at the
business world digitalisation is a key factor. PRINCIPLES AG, in short 7P, has a com- centre point.
The digital transformation and the opti- prehensive performance spectrum that 5. Professionalism, which means the
misation of business processes associated tackles the complete value chain. 7P con- company only works with the best in
with it are the drivers of mobile innova- sults companies on how to enhance their their field.
tion, says SEVEN PRINCIPLES AGs CEO processes or create the right architecture 6. Personality is as important as
Joseph Kronfli. Processes, applications and and develop the necessary software tools. individuality.
users have become more and more compli- SEVEN PRINCIPLES AG has many years 7. Partnership builds the fundament for
cated and demand more from companies of experience in different business sectors each co-operation.
than this has been the case only a few years and with various digitalisation projects.
ago. To stay competitive, the digitalisation Our promise of performance is based on
of core processes is mostly inevitable. The The companys name originates in the these seven principles. The client is always
basis for this is created through an inno- seven principles that form the core of their in our focus and we act as an innovative
vative IT architecture. But how to tackle approach: and strategic partner throughout, says

100 | Issue 52 | July 2017

 Discover Germany | Special Theme | Germanys Consulting Experts

Joseph Kronfli, explaining the companys
philosophy and approach. What differen-
tiates SEVEN PRINCIPLES AG from oth-
er companies working in the same field
is not only the vast experience and that
it implements the same principles in its
own company, 7P tackles every aspect of
digitalisation internal and external pro-
cesses so that clients get everything out
of one hand. We consequently expand
the three main topics of digitalisation: big
data, security and agile software develop-
ment, says Kronfli.
devices like tablets and smartphones and
can thus safely store sensitive company
data.
Today, the app has optimised the com-
plete sales process not only by reduc-
ing the timespan needed for delivery,
but also by reducing the work effort. The
sales team for example no longer needs
to worry about reworking incorrect orders
or reporting mistakes made in the sys-
tem. Digitalisation has made the process
smooth, cost-effective and fast and there-
fore is an ideal example of why digitalisa-
tion makes companies more competitive
and is the future of business.
www.7p-group.com

The first step when tackling digitalisation

is the analysis of existing processes, to
work out how they can best be digitalised.
Most times we first initiate a workshop
with the companys top management, in
which the actual goal is worked out, says
Kronfli. A holistic enterprise mobility
solution optimises business models and
achieves the highest possible efficiency
in regard to sales increase as well as in
reducing costs. But, of course, it is also
possible to digitalise only certain areas or
processes.

To give a more tangible example, one only

needs to look at mobile distribution solu-
The seven principles. Photo: SEVEN PRINCIPLES AG
tions. SEVEN PRINCIPLES AG has opti-
mised the sales process for a well-known
Consultation. Photo: Fotolia
German direct selling company through
implementing a mobile solution. Among
others, this halved the timespan between
orders and delivery to end users, says
Joseph Kronfli about 7Ps success.
Through daily sales figures, the company
gained new possibilities in sales manage-
ment and for optimising sales campaigns. SEVEN PRINCIPLES AGs CEO Joseph Kronfli.
Photo: SEVEN PRINCIPLES AG
7P developed a concept for a middleware
based on Microsoft Share Point and a na-
tive Apple iOS App for on-premise use
on an iPad. Design and functionality have
been tested in advance using a laboratory
environment to measure its operability.
In the end, all functions are integrated
seamlessly: the transmission of customer
data, delivery, invoice and direct payment
of provisions to the consultant who en-
sured the sale. The app cannot be down-
loaded over the normal app store, but is
delivered through the 7P Mobile Device
Management-System, a safe platform
7P uses when cooperating with compa-
Development. Photo: Fotolia
nies. Clients gain access through mobile

Issue 52 | July 2017 | 101

Discover Germany | Business | Austrias Consulting Expert

Dr. Karin Schreiner. Photo: Felicitas Matern

A U S T R I A S C O N S U LT I N G E X P E R T Dr. Karin Schreiners book.

A bridge between cultures

Dr. Karin Schreiner is an author and consultant for intercultural competence.
Based in Vienna, Schreiner shows how to work successfully within an
international context.
TEXT: MARILENA STRACKE
Today, most companies maintain relations
abroad. Although the world is getting
smaller, cultural differences can still be a
challenge when it comes to negotiating
deals or establishing work-flows. A di-
verse playground is beautiful, but in order
to benefit it is vital to understand different
cultural values, attitudes and expectations.
Dr. Karin Schreiner, an expat in Asian and
European countries for many years, knows
first-hand that mentalities are different
across the globe. As a cross-cultural facil-
itator, she has witnessed many business
challenges that could have been mastered
better if cultural differences had been ad-
dressed.
Our day-to-day work is a constant set-
ting for intercultural encounters because
cultural diversity is part of our society,
Dr. Schreiner explains. Managers lead by
example and are responsible for showing
how openness and respect can be embed-
ded in business.
Whether you do business in Austria where
Dr. Schreiner is based, or if you are looking
to expand from Europe, it is the same prin-
ciple. You need to understand the culture
that is new to you.
Dr. Schreiner says: One of the biggest
problems I address is that managers often
dont know how to communicate effective-
ly within a different cultural context. Inter-
acting with employees the right way can
make everything a lot easier. If, for exam-
ple, I start to work in India and my profes-
sional demeanor is not overly confident in
terms of demonstrating leadership, Ive im-
mediately lost. But if I appear authoritarian
in European countries such as the UK or
Austria, it will not be well received at all.
It can be a fine line and hence it is im-
portant to consult with experts like Dr.
Schreiner who can navigate through inter-
cultural differences. Schreiner covers India,
China, France, Belgium, Finland, Czech
Republic, Slovakia, Slovenia, Hungary,
Croatia, Serbia and Bosnia-Herzegovina.
She explains that understanding what is
considered polite is not just helpful, but
crucial when it comes to negotiating deals.
Her third book, published in May 2017,
gives practical guidance for managers who
work within intercultural context and in-
cludes new sectors such as health care and
education.
With her warm attitude, Dr. Schreiners
advice is an invaluable asset for anyone
who is interacting with different cultures.
In the wonderfully diverse world we live
in, that includes almost all of us.
www.iknet.at

102 | Issue 52 | July 2017

 Discover Germany | Special Theme | The Future of Mobility

Photo: Flickr.com, christcovenantchurch Photo: https://homethods.com

S P E C I A L T H E M E : S W I T Z E R L A N D S S U C C E S S F U L S TA R T- U P S

Switzerlands creative minds

In this special theme, we take a closer look at Switzerlands creative minds and their innovative ideas. Discover the
inspiration behind the latest start-up ventures and much more on the following pages.

Photo: Flickr.com, perzon seo

Issue 52 | July 2017 | 103

Discover Germany | Special Theme | Switzerlands Successful Start-Ups

Latest fashion only one click away TEXT: MARILENA STRACKE | PHOTOS: FASHWELL

Have you ever seen a must-have fashion item online without any info on where to increase the sales of a fashion brand or
to buy it? Yes, we have all been there. Luckily Swiss B2B tech start-up Fashwell retailer. The future of online shopping is
holds the key to our shopping desires and bridges the gap between content and based on searching visually and pictures
eCommerce by making every image shoppable. that are shoppable. Fashwell makes that
possible.
In times where social media has become search for a particular item through using
our steady companion, a large part of our photos, rather than having to struggle https://tech.fashwell.com
communication happens visually. Espe- with describing an item accurately.
cially with platforms like Pinterest or In- Marketing manager Sophia Cosby Left: During the picture analysis a box appears around
stagram, where 140 million pictures are says: On the one hand, our technology every fashion item and it is then matched with fitting
products in the online shops.
uploaded daily, photos inspire us to buy helps buyers to find the desired product Right: Fashwell founders Matthias Dantone, Lukas
certain outfits. quicker, but on the other hand it also helps Bossard and Michael Emmersberger (from left to right).

Fashwell co-founder Matthias Dantone

explains: I am a big fan of sneakers. But
I always got frustrated when I saw a cool
pair on Instagram and didnt know where
to buy it. That is why Lukas Bossard,
Michael Emmersberger and I developed
Fashwell. So that everyone can finally find
exactly what they are looking for.
Fashwells technology recognises gar-
ments in photos. It then compares it to
items in a large data bank from certain on-
line stores and offers either the exact item
to buy or a similar one. Customers can also
 Discover Germany | Special Theme | Switzerlands Successful Start-Ups

Tennis elbow on PRS. The PRS in a plane. Photo: Singapore Airlines

Neurological protocols:
gateway to higher quality of life
A.R.P. Concept (Europe) SA is a Swiss start-up with its head office in Wollerau. In one can deliver desired results through
2016, they were invited to the prestigious scientific event, The Brain Forum, and maximised performance potential, mitigate
reached the semi-finals of this very competitive Innovation Startup Competition. any type of injury risk, recover faster from
The MyARP Concept was recognised as a highly effective opportunity and tool to fatigue, stress, muscle soreness or injury
address the challenges in rehabilitation, performance and lifestyle management. and, finally, sleep better and lead a pain-
free life.
TEXT & PHOTOS: MYARP

The MyARP Concept provides the profes-
sional support for the proper use and ap-
plication of the innovative ARPwave elec-
trostimulation technologies and patented
neurological protocols. The key outcome: a
more effective communication between the
central nervous system and our musculo-
skeletal function leading to extraordinary
results whether in the area of rehabili-
tation (50 80 per cent faster and more
efficient than with traditional treatments),
performance management (better, quicker
and stronger with reduced injury risk) or
lifestyle management (live more actively
pain free).
Travel
stress or opportunity to recover?
Your opportunity as a busy business exec-
utive and traveller is: the MyARP Personal
Recovery System (PRS). The PRS is the per-
fect tool for all those who are, or would like,
to be active without the pains and aches,
as well as recover faster from work and ac-
tivity. In short, to lead a higher quality life
without pain. Too good to be true? Try it!
The PRS is especially beneficial to those
who are exposed to repetitive and stren-
uous tasks (sitting or standing jobs, pre-
senters, surgeons etc.), those who work in
stress-related environments (fatigue, burn-
out) and travel (avoid jet lag), those who
practise recreational sports (golf, tennis,
running, yoga etc.) with the aim to avoid
injuries, muscle soreness and recover faster,
The PRS.
as well as those who want to benefit from
an independent mobile aid for preparation
and recovery on the go. Contact details:
info@myarp.ch
+41 43 888 92 37
The key benefits of this are: one can live, www.myarp.ch
work, train and compete restriction free,

Issue 52 | July 2017 | 105

Discover Germany | Business | Solicitor Column
Starting-up in Brexit Britain
TEXT & PHOTO: GREGOR KLEINKNECHT
Setting up a new business is as exciting a
project as it is a challenging one (I know,
I have done it), regardless of whether you
are a dot.com kid fresh out of university
and about to rock the gig economy, or an
old hand at business and seasoned seri-
al entrepreneur. Britain has always been
a welcoming environment for start-ups
and the statistics suggest that this con-
tinues to be the case. According to the
start-up tracker at startupbritain.org, some
2,465 new companies were registered to-
day alone (over 300,000 this year to date).
Now, some of these new companies will
simply sit on the shelf, some will never
take off as an actual business and, even
if they do, famously, four out of ten new
businesses will not be around to see their
fifth anniversary.
Thankfully, the impending economic
gloom, which some predicted in the im-
mediate aftermath of the Brexit referen-
dum last year, has not so far materialised
and, for now, the British economy has
been enjoying relative health. Never-
theless, there are signs that this may be
about to change, with consumer spend-
ing down and the outcome of last weeks
general election having made the shape
and potential political and economic con-
sequences of Brexit yet more uncertain.
So, does it make sense to set up a new
business in Brexit Britain? The lawyers
standard answer to any question will
(as always) fit: it depends. Well, it actu-
ally does. Many of the fundamentals re-
main unchanged: Britain continues to
attract the brightest and the best, is the
international hub par excellence, the reg-
ulatory environment is benevolent, the
106 | Issue 52 | July 2017
labour market flexible, and the corpora-
tion tax rate one of the lowest in the de-
veloped world. The weakness of Sterling
has helped exporters and the tourism
industry. There will therefore be indus-
try sectors, in particular those serving
the domestic economy, not dependent
on foreign labour, and without the need
necessarily to access the single market in
future, in which now is as good a time as
any to launch a new business.
On the other hand, many foreign investors
are adopting a wait-and-see attitude, in
particular if setting up a subsidiary busi-
ness in the UK, which involves significant
capital expenditure and long-term con-
tracts. A serious commitment of resources
may be more difficult to justify for now if
there is uncertainty about the terms of ac-
cess to European markets, or the ability to
post personnel in the UK, and there is a In the long term, however, the UK will re-
risk that the regulatory environment will main one of the leading European econ-
start to diverge. Other potential problem omies and an attractive market place.
areas include a range of tax questions, Once there is more clarity about what
from VAT on cross-border transactions, to Brexit actually means, businesses will no
double taxation and customs duties, which doubt find a way to work with whatev-
will require careful consideration. er the future brings. Fingers crossed and
good luck.
However, that need not place business on
hold. Alternative approaches include the
appointment of a local distributor, subject Gregor Kleinknecht LM MCIArb
to contractual safeguards with enough
flexibility to permit termination of the is a German Rechtsanwalt and English
solicitor, and a partner at Hunters Solicitors,
arrangement in the event that the future
a leading law firm in Central London.
trading relationship between the UK and
the rest of the EU should eventually turn Hunters Solicitors, 9 New Square, Lincolns
out to be more difficult than everybody Inn, London WC2A 3QN,
hopes for now. The first step in the right E-mail: gjk@hunters-solicitors.co.uk
direction will always be to obtain profes-
www.hunters-solicitors.co.uk
sional advice tailored to the specific cir-
cumstances of the new business venture.
 ELTEN.COM

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wie Stahlkappe und metallfreiem Durchtrittschutz wehrt er im Job Gefahren fr die Fe zuverlssig ab. Und
ziemlich lssig aussehen tut er auch!
Discover Germany | Special Theme | The Future of Mobility

Hamburg Elbphilharmonie by Herzog & de Meuron. Photo: Maxim Schulz

SPECIAL THEME: SWISS ARCHITECTS 2017

Timeless architecture made in Switzerland

Switzerlands architectural heritage is as diverse as it is impressive. From the stone houses in Ticino, to the half-timbered
houses in Switzerlands eastern parts and the UNESCO world heritage Old City of Bern, there is much to cherish.
Contemporary architects pick up on the Swiss architectural traditions and offer a unique diversity that has garnered them
worldwide followings.

TEXT: THOMAS SCHROERS

Schaulager by Herzog & de Meuron. Photo: Tom Bisig

108 | Issue 52 | July 2017


ETH Zurich School. Photo: ETH Zurich
In the past, it was Charles-douard Jean-
neret, better known as Le Corbusier. Today,
it is the duo Herzog & de Meuron. On a
regular basis, Swiss architectural artists be-
come international stars. Most often, they
arrive at that status because of innovative
thinking and devotion. Le Corbusier is fa-
mously known for his attempts to combine
human existence and the industrial socie-
ty, making his work both exhilarating and
controversial.
Herzog & de Meuron, both of whom grad-
uated from the ETH Zurich University, are
known for their minimalist designs, which
have become an international sensation.
The Tate Modern in London, the Birds
Discover Germany | Special Theme | Swiss Architects 2017
Messe Basel by Herzog & de Meuron. glise Saint-Pierre, Firminy, by Le Corbusier.
Photo: Rosmarie Voegtli Photo: Richard Weil
Nest in Beijing, the Elbphilharmonie in Tate Modern London by Herzog & de
Meuron. Photo: Hayes Davidson
Hamburg and many more sites stand as and Herzog & de Meuron
a testament to their abilities. At home in
Switzerland, the two have created the St.
Jakob Park in Basel and the Schaulager,
which combines a public museum and an
art store.
The examples above show that the coun-
trys architectural reach goes far beyond
geographical borders. Switzerland may be
a small country but, due to a long history
in the field, new creative voices constantly
arise and widen the reach. Look no further
than the following pages to find out about
some of these voices and get an insight into
their work and process.
Issue 52 | July 2017 | 109
Discover Germany | Special Theme | Swiss Architects 2017

Outdoors lighting concept. Residential and office building Baden (CH).

Classic elegance meets imagination

I want the people living in my buildings to experience a sense of well-being, buildings, a spiral staircase, one of the pro-
without exactly knowing why, says architect Lucienne Antonia Kpfli. jects beautiful eye-catchers, unites the two
structures to an ensemble.
TEXT: CORNELIA BRELOWSKI | PHOTOS: FISCHLI & PARTNER AG
My clients are people with a strong sense
Marked by a timeless quality and classic For a residential and office building at cen- for aesthetics and comfort,states the archi-
elegance, Atelier LAK designs are func- tral Theaterplatz in Baden, Switzerland, tect. Often, the people approaching Atelier
tional and economic, as well as ergonomic Atelier LAK planned, designed and im- LAK have their own, clear views on archi-
and easy to inhabit. plemented a classic structure containing tecture, or they even stem from the building
five condominiums, two medical practices industry itself.
As the architect Lucienne Antonia Kpfli and two offices. Flanked by a heteroge-
herself states: Though my architecture is neous mix of solitary buildings, the house For the near future, the architect wants to
unassuming in general, there will always provides for a solid yet elegantly grounded tackle mainly remodelling and refurbish-
be a playful element, capturing the imagi- quality, adding to the overall value of the ment projects. With her sense for unobtru-
nation for a moment and thereby creating Theaterplatz city square. The future owners sive yet elegant designs, Lucienne Antonia
a pleasant distraction. of the apartments, all in retirement, were Kpfli will find the path just right for pre-
looking for suitable city flats. Lucienne serving old values while adding modern
Thanks to a direct commission, the archi- Antonia Kpfli designed a six-storey build- comfort and levity.
tect was able to start her office right after ing, with a limestone concrete base. Lime-
finishing her studies around ten years ago. stone is a typical traditional building ma- www.atelierlak.ch
Since then she has applied her skills to terial in the region, and the house blends
building and remodelling concepts, fea- in with the urban surroundings effortlessly.
sibility studies, as well as building assess- Oriented on a former 120-year-old tower
ment and competition advice. Her range building, the structure also features an attic
of offers further include cost calculation floor, complete with roof terrace. While the
and implementation planning, site man- main building breathes a charming solidity,
agement as well as construction adminis- an attached glass pavilion to the back adds
Stairwell eye.
tration. light-flooded fragility. Set between the two

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 Discover Germany | Special Theme | Swiss Architects 2017

Security centre in Weinfelden,

2017, KIT architects Zurich.

Discover Germany | Special Theme | The Future of Mobility

Residential studios, Meisenrain Gockhausen,

2015, Jakob Steib architects.

Dessau, Bauhaus masters houses, 1926,

Walter Gropius 2014 BFM architects Berlin. Residential homes in Wetzikon, 2017, MRH architects Bern.

Depicting our built environment

When it comes to architectural photography, for Pit Brunner, depicting the shell who have started their own offices. With
that society chooses to live in means depicting society itself. Our constructed architects, editors, developers and builders
environment, he says, is the exact expression of our society. counting to his main clientele, sometimes
Pit Brunner likes to take a little detour by
TEXT: CORNELIA BRELOWSKI | PHOTOS: PIT BRUNNER photographing events. He enjoys this lit-
tle sideline as it exclusively deals with
In his opinion, there are many capable its future and society, the photographer depicting human beings. Human beings,
photographers as well as architects also tries to track down the architectur- the houses they live in and, in conclusion,
around, so when Pit Brunner takes pic- al mindset behind a structure and then an interest in the structures of society it-
tures of buildings, he tries to stick to the transports it through the picture. self form the motivation for Pit Brunners
simple facts to What Is. Calm per- photographic work.
spectives, clear-cut pictures taken from a As a trained architect, Pit Brunner started
potential observers eye level, the houses his work as architectural photographer Having established a profound basis over
and their connection to the surroundings, on the sidewhile working at a renowned past years, the photographer at present
the gaps, the spacial interactions: Pit Zurich office. His former second mainstay seeks to embark on more international
Brunner sees potential in everything, gradually grew until becoming a full-time commissions, especially those depicting
even in disturbances or obstacles like job as of three years ago. Apart from com- architectural developments within EU
cleaning personnel performing their final missions, he works on his own projects countries such as Germany and Austria,
tasks before hand-over, moving boxes, or that also deal with constructed surround- as well as countries of the Mediterrane-
tools left behind by craftsmen. Such ex- ings; architectural photography with an an region. When asked about his fore-
tra items are a welcome element of com- extended focus, as he himself calls it. His most interest at the time, he simply states:
position to Pit Brunner, as they provide networking began early, during his own Europe, I guess.
a link to the real, future life of a build- architectural studies. Today, his client list
ing. Apart from connecting a house to still includes many former fellow students, www.pitbrunner.ch

Issue 52 | July 2017 | 111

Discover Germany | Special Theme | The Future of Mobility

Seefeld loft, Zurich. Photo: Chen Qing

Custodians of common property

Frei & Ehrensperger architects believe in the responsibility of architecture, both to end, the structure thus becomes the car-
the builder and society. While representing the individual interests of the builder, rier of meaning: Between the inner and
they are acting as custodians of the public space at the same time. the outer, emotion, mood and usage melt
into life itself.
TEXT: CORNELIA BRELOWSKI | PHOTOS: FREI & EHRENSPERGER
The resulting range in urban planning and
As caretakers of both common and pri- ty also always entails a strengthening of design is dazzling and ranges from fitting
vate property, the architects make a point identification. a whole field and track stadium into an
of always applying diligence and accuracy. existing city structure through to the sen-
As the architects state:Rather than being By fulfilling needs while using resourc- sitive task of adding rooftop apartments to
unique in its handwriting, our architec- es in a careful and economical manner, historical structures. The respective choice
ture strives to be conscientious. How- Frei & Ehrensperger architecture thus of materials varies strongly, which in turn
ever, the handwriting is still charmingly negotiates between the individual and leads to manifold design patterns, nat-
visible and at times reminds of architec- society. As the architects say: We un- urally avoiding any trace of architectural
tural and societal philosophers such as derstand architecture as not only the narcissism. That way, the unifying charac-
Walter Gropius. To Frei & Ehrensperger, a built structure itself but the force of the teristics of Frei & Ehrensperger architec-
wholesome approach that strives towards in-between, where life can blossom and ture often emerge at a second glance. For
an inclusion of the individual into socie- thrive. Rather than being a means to an example, to them, all buildings are instru-

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 Discover Germany | Special Theme | Swiss Architects 2017

ments, creating emotional quality through

the use of light. The user or inhabitant
plays the structure, with the respective
daytime and season providing the basso
continuo, or tonality.

The architects started their common work

in 1989 by participating in public competi-
tions, of which they won the first four right
away (each of which counting more than
a hundred participants). Since then, more
than 90 prizes on both a national and in-
ternational level mark the work of Frei &
Ehrensperger, who regard competitions as
essential laboratories of our own develop-
ment as well as contribution to the dis-
cussion important for a broadly supported
cultural development of a space.

From first draft to cost calculation through

Letzigrund Stadium. Photo: Guido Baselgia
to implementation planning; from urban
development studies to designing a piece
of furniture, the architects themselves
strive to cultivate building culture from
start to finish, and beyond. Post-realisation
project support is part of their portfolio and
mirrors their attachment to each structure
they help to create.

We have taken a closer look at the Frei

& Ehrensperger approach by diving into
their manifold range of projects.
Cultural and Sports Center Gries, Volketswil. Photo: Bruno Klomfar
Rooted connections
Bongert until today names the tree gar-
den in front or behind a house; tradition-
ally a meadow with fruit trees. Also, the
senior residency of Bonaduz is set within
a bongert. Although the old building had
to be replaced with a new structure fea-
turing 15 apartments, the goal of the new
design was to retain the character of the
original atmosphere as an effort of contin-
uance and renewal. The result is a compact
garden cube sculpture, structured in a way
that mirrors the varying forms of the sur-
rounding buildings as well as combining
landscape with social life.

A sense-oriented living surrounding

was created for the inhabitants of the
Schaffhausen Knzle home: a multi-
layered, simulating environment that is
full of character. Influenced by the respec-
tive light of both daytime and seasons,
Brhl multipurpose hall, Gebenstorf. Photo: Chen Qing
the building changes its moods and hues

Issue 52 | July 2017 | 113

Discover Germany | Special Theme | Swiss Architects 2017

playfully. There are rooms with a view of

the park trees, and such with a vast pan-
orama of the town or surrounding land-
scape. Meeting spaces alternate with quiet
areas for retreat. The wooden faade both
symbolises and enhances the overall play-
ful range of moods.

For the Langrti nursing home, samsara

the Sanskrit word for wandering or
the cycle of life, acted as the fundamental
philosophy behind the design. The exten-
sion organically adjusts to the existing old
building. Bending repeatedly, the new part
returns to the original building, leaving
enough space for a central square.

Working life goes paradise

Staying with the eternal myths, from hell
to paradise or the emancipation of modern
working life mark the Dietlikon municipal
works yard (Werkhof). The architectural
concept presents an interpretation of the
space allocation plan: a horizontally struc-
tured, 70-metre-long building in three
layers. Set above a cave-like, subterranean
Langrti senior residency and nursing home. Photo: Chen Qing
storage floor, only visible through two side
ramps, the four-metre-high base level is
used as a light-filled workshop. The floating
mezzanine floor presents an administra-
tion landscape (five gardens of paradise).
The cantilever structure of the mezzanine
stresses its autonomy, while the overhang-
ing roof shields the workshops access area
at the same time.

Relations and interventions

An initial analysis of the site quickly revealed
the necessity of giving the village-facing
north side of the Boppelsen multipurpose
hall a unique and expressive shape, a face.
With the planning for a new building, the
chance arose to create a powerful layout
showing an expressive yet respectful out-
line, thereby creating an ensemble that be-
came more than just the sum of its parts.
An Agora functions as a schoolyard and the
former wire-mesh fence was replaced by a
spacious awning, displaying big windows
towards the village. The buildings thus in-
terrelate with each other and the transpar-
ency and connection between village and
school complex was preserved.

Business Park Zofingen (reconstruction). Photo: Alexander Gempeler

Displaying its autonomy, the Brhl multi-
purpose hall design features a compact,

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 Discover Germany | Special Theme | Swiss Architects 2017

Senior Residency Bongert, Bonaduz. Photo: Guido Baselgia Dietlikon municipal works yard. Photo: Guido Baselgia

Boppelsen multipurpose hall. Photo: Chen Qing Schaffhausen Knzle home. Photo: Guido Baselgia

streamlined building. With its floating roof
above a site modulation, the ensemble is
viewed as a topographical intervention.
Large gesture
Entering the arena through a mouth hole,
the visitor of the new Letzigrund Stadium
suddenly faces the stunning effect of the
gigantic sloping roof. The view from below
streamlines the powerful dense, compos-
ite support columns, making load-bearing
architecture an experience in itself. As
part of the Zurich city structure, the
stadium remains open outside match
days, with access to a restaurant overlook-
ing the grounds from the highest point of
the arena.
Delicate features
The Seefeld loft conversion is once more
based on the interplay of space and light.
With one room leading into another, a flight
of rooms was created, reminding of the Ba-
roque enfilade layout. For the more seclud-
ed upstairs area, the stairs were designed
in a way that the light shines through from
above while from below, the view is denied,
creating a light-filled yet shielded access.
This year, Frei & Ehrensperger will further
expand their horizons by diving deep into
foreign cultures once again, implementing
and widening their expertise through yet
more international competitions and com-
missions. From large gestures to delicate
compartmentalising, Frei and Ehrensperger
continue to provide an architecture utterly
unpretentious yet full of the right ambi-
tions, while displaying a deep sense of soci-
etal responsibility and cultural curiosity.
www.swiss-architects.com/de/frei-and-
ehrensperger-architekten-zurich

Issue 52 | July 2017 | 115

Discover Germany | Special Theme | Swiss Architects 2017

Hospital patio in Kaya, Burkina Faso. Jolimont balcony.

Illustration: Pyo Arquitectos Photo: Joel Tettamanti

Connecting old and new, tradition and innovation

Swiss architecture that leaves an impact
The Geneva-based architectural office Nomos works on very diverse projects, from the new energy and new ideas, says
residential buildings and social housing to commercial projects in Switzerland, Lucas Camponovo. This allowed us to do
Europe and abroad. Looking closely at the contemporary environment they are in three years what would normally take
building in, architects at Nomos embrace modernity but combine it with the love ten. They established themselves very
for the old, the patina and history. successfully and today Nomos has about

TEXT: JESSICA HOLZHAUSEN Caf Paradiso, Geneva.

Photo: Miguel de Guzman

By creating something new out of nostal-
gia, Nomos architects are trying to chal-
lenge todays standardisation, carelessness
and chaos. At the same time, the architects
are inspired by the diversity, complexity
and contradictions of our times in order
to build specific, poetic and intelligent ar-
chitecture. The diversity of our projects
reflects the diversity of our office, says
architect Lucas Camponovo. The office
works with inspirational young architects
and brings these young innovators togeth-
er with experienced architects.
Nomos was founded in 2009 as a partner
office with five partners. The two young-
est partners, Lucas Camponovo and
Katrien Vertenten, met at university the
lAccademia di Architettura di Mendrisio
and later on worked all over the world,
from Zurich and Madrid, to New York and
China. In 2010, a big opportunity arose
for both of them when they opened an
architectural office in Geneva together
with three experienced architects, todays
partners. They brought the know-how
and the clients, we as younger architects

116 | Issue 52 | July 2017

 Discover Germany | Special Theme | Swiss Architects 2017

30 employees in the Geneva office and two

international offices in Lisbon and Madrid.

We know that we are living in a very

complex modern world and we em-
brace that, as we embrace the past, steal
from it, re-interpret it, but also invent
new things, says Nomos partner Katrien
Vertenten. Her colleague Lucas Campono-
vo adds: We challenge the modern world
in marrying the ideas of young and old.
Being at the border between two worlds
is something you can easily embrace in a
city like Geneva. Situated at the border be-
tween the Latin world and the Northern
Hemisphere, the city has always been in
between different cultural contexts, lan-
guages and ideas.

Taking the time to make the

right choices
One example for interior design done by
Nomos architects is the Caf Paradiso in
the centre of Geneva.Looking at what we
did here makes it easier to illustrate how we
position ourselves in time and tradition,
the architects explain. The client was very
specific when determining the look of the
caf. He took over a year to choose the cof-
Nubian vault in Kaya, Burkina Faso. Illustration: Pyo Arquitectos
fee beans.And it was the same kind of pro-
cess when we chose the building materials,
says Katrien Vertenten about the long talks Construction site in Kaya, Burkina Faso. Photo: Clara Gbodossou Sawadogo

they had to determine materials and finish.

The chosen design is not anchored in a

specific time but embraces different tradi-
tions, addresses different kind of people.
Nostalgic marble countertops unite with
contemporary medium density wood that
is CNC cut to look like an old Roman col-
umn. People coming into the building for
the first time are never sure if the interior
is very old or really modern. We re-united
nostalgia and a contemporary feel, ex-
plains Lucas Camponovo. I think the
interior speaks to every generation from
a small child to a 90-year-old man, adds
Katrien Vertenten.

Before starting on a project, Lucas

Camponovo and Katrien Vertenten ex-
plain, they always look at the area they
are building in; the history and traditions
of the village or city and, of course, at the
people they are building for. Their projects
are ambitious and realistic at the same

Issue 52 | July 2017 | 117

Discover Germany | Special Theme | Swiss Architects 2017
time. This also applies for JOLIMONT, a
social housing project Nomos developed
in Geneva. To make housing affordable the
building costs had to be kept very low, so
the architects developed a twisted concrete
structure. We created a very spectacular
looking faade with large balconies that
seem to move in a specific way. It was very
118 | Issue 52 | July 2017
important for us to get the landscape into
the building, says Lucas Camponovo.
The building is located in an old
working-class area formerly characterised
by very small houses, all with their own
garden. The idea was to create the same
quality of housing, says Katrien Vertenten
JOLIMONT exterior. Photo: Miguel de Guzman
about the new flats and why it was impor-
tant for the architects to let nature enter
the new building in providing a huge bal-
cony for each flat. The result simply does
not look like social housing, says Lucas
Camponovo. Which has also to do with the
fact that the area is overlooking a lake and
nature reserve.
JOLIMONT faade. Photo: Miguel de Guzman
JOLIMONT living room. Photo: Joel Tettamanti
JOLIMONT railing.
Photo: Miguel de Guzman

Caf Paradiso, Geneva.
Photo: Miguel de Guzman
The entrance of Caf Paradiso, Geneva.
Photo: Miguel de Guzman
Embracing the landscape
The specifics of the surroundings were im-
portant from the very beginning when the
architects still brooded over ideas. Where
the new building should be erected, spec-
tacular nature and old trees already exist-
ed, including a beautiful cedar. The archi-
tects wanted to protect that and, instead
of landscaping the area after the build-
ing was finished, they shaped the house
around the existing landscape so that the
trees did not have to be cut.As soon as the
building was finished it looked like it had
always been there.
Nomos worked with rather rough and
inexpensive materials, but gave them an
elegant touch. The main building material
was concrete.The perception of materials
is very important. And the perception of
concrete is very negative. We try to change
Discover Germany | Special Theme | Swiss Architects 2017
that and prove the opposite, states
Katrien Vertenten. Indeed, concrete is a
very old building material and has often
been used in very artistic ways. Even the
Romans used concrete. What we hope to
achieve is to change peoples perception
of certain materials. Lucas Camponovo
compares the treatment of materials to a
human body; treated well, it brings out the
best forms, shapes and looks.
Empowering communities
through education
Working with very basic building materials
is at the core of their third project: a hos-
pital the architects developed and built in
Kaya, Burkina Faso, as part of a centre for
people with disabilities. Keeping material
costs very low was important. Concrete
and steel are very expensive in the region
because they have to be imported. Labour
Bar of Caf Paradiso, Geneva. Photo: Miguel de Guzman
on the other hand is economic and getting
people into work was an important factor
for making a social impact. Nomos did a
great deal of research and, together with
a team of local and international building
experts, they found the right solution. For
4,000 years, people in northern parts of
Africa have built vault-like buildings us-
ing earth without form-work, concrete
or steel. It is a very specific technique the
architects themselves and their local team
of architects, masons and workers had to
learn.The centre in Kaya is a great chance
for us to do a humanitarian project in
Africa, says Katrien Vertenten. Exchang-
ing ideas and building in a very essential
way is not only helping the local commu-
nity, but it also empowers us to take a new
look at architecture in Switzerland.
www.nomos.archi
Issue 52 | July 2017 | 119
EXCLUSIVE BUSINESS PROFILES

The DACH regions innovators

On the following pages, find out what the country of Austria has to offer on the business front.

120 | Issue 52 | July 2017

 Discover Germany | Business Profiles | Dr. Brigitta Balogh

Dr. Baloghs surgery.

Univ.-Doz. Dr. Brigitta Balogh.

Dr. Balogh performing surgery.

Avoid white skin cancer:

enjoy the sun, but protect the skin
Today, most people know that UV-radiation and the following sunburns are risk Dr. Balogh. If the scar is treated properly
factors for white skin cancer, so-called basal cell carcinoma. Austrian plastic and regularly massaged afterwards, it will
surgeon and skin specialist Dr. Brigitta Balogh says protection is important, but heal until only a tiny scar line is left.
fast treatment is key when detecting changes in ones skin.
The chance of successful therapy is quite
TEXT: JESSICA HOLZHAUSEN I PHOTOS: UNIV.-DOZ. DR. BRIGITTA BALOGH high. The cancer cells might grow back but,
unlike other cancer types, white skin can-
95 per cent of all basal cell carcinomas are people should avoid sitting or working in cer does normally not spread through the
the result of too much direct exposure to the sun at noon and during the early after- whole body. But why take the risk at all?
sunlight, even though genetic factors play noon,explains Dr. Balogh, when the sun is Just make sure the skin is protected before
a role as well. The human skin actually at its highest point. going into the sun.
memorises each sunburn, so that damage
caused by UV-radiation adds up over the Those with light skin or those working out- www.drbalogh.at
years until a certain barrier is crossed and doors should particularly check their own
Dr. Balogh performing surgery.
the skin develops cancerous cells. Avoid- body for skin changes regularly and consult
ing direct sunlight is the best prophylaxis. a specialist once a year.In the early stages,
People should protect the parts of the skin changes in the skin can be treated with a
that are most exposed to sunlight, says Dr. special ointment that removes the tumour,
Balogh, especially the face. Here, wearing a explains Dr. Balogh. This treatment is nor-
hat with a wide brim will provide necessary mally done by a dermatologist. In later
shade. Of course, there are many skincare stages, white skin cancer must be removed
products on the market providing a pro- through plastic surgery.We are using local
tective barrier, which should be chosen flap procedures or skin transplants to close
according to the skin type. But actually, the defect after removing the tumour, says

Issue 52 | July 2017 | 121

Discover Germany | Special Theme | The Future of Mobility

Caramel office, ground floor. Photo: Hertha Hurnaus, Caramel

TOP AUSTRIAN ARCHITECT 2017

Putting humanity front and centre

Circumstances count. Caramel Architekten strongly believe in the influence of ice Biennale based on their constructive
surroundings and future users on the creative act, rather than being influenced by problem-solving attitude towards urban
trends and artificially created standards. densification, successfully also shown
with their award-winning Haus CJ_5 in
TEXT: CORNELIA BRELOWSKI Vienna. The abbreviation CJ_5 stands for
Cooking-Jockey_5m. It is named after
Every Caramel project therefore is unique creative approaches aimed at improv- the kitchen unit that features only five me-
and perfectly adjusts to the given situa- ing the living conditions for refugees in tres in width, as does the entire house. The
tion, preferably by using new, or newly Austria. The resulting structures look like CJ_5 floor plan thus had to be constructed
interpreted, materials. Take Caramels a merger between rotary clothes dryer on a plot measuring five by 35 metres. By
contribution at last years Venice Bien- and Roman tent. Easy to set up and dis- integrating the aspect of density into the
nale for example, showing that the ma- mantle again, they succeeded in improv- buildings design, while at the same time
jor influence by no means lies with the ing the user experience at a Vienna-based managing to create an air and light-filled
financial background of their clients: We shelter at the modest cost of 50 euros
simply enjoy working for and with peo- per person. The Home Made tool set is
ple, that is the central point of our work now being used in a further range of both
always! says architect Gnter Katherl. professional and private situations. This
Working with our clients on a long-term resulting closed loop fulfils the original
basis has created lasting friendships. aim of the architects to build for not just
one target group, but for everyone.
The Places for People Biennale project in-
volved three teams of architects and de- Caramel were chosen as one of three Science Park - Unit I- III.
Photo: Hertha Hurnaus, Caramel
signers with the objective of developing Austrian representatives at the 2016 Ven-

122 | Issue 52 | July 2017

 Discover Germany | Business Profiles | Top Austrian Architect 2017

living space, Caramel provide the answer by connecting each room with a rooftop Germany. However, private housing is as
to an open question that urban society fac- garden idyll. Opening up to various di- high on the list as ever right now. Next is
es everywhere. The CJ_5 did not only pave rections, all free spaces offer panoramic the Mietgestalten rental project, a space
the way to the 2016 Biennale in Venice, it views. With most rooms following up on co-created together with the future inhab-
has also won numerous prizes such as the the idea of flowing transitions, two bed- itants. Last but not least, a compact res-
best house award in 2015 and 2016 and rooms and a home office provide for the idential high-rise in Viennas Simmering
an AIT award for innovative architecture. necessary retreat. district is being realised, together with the
former Caramel co-workers of heimspiel
The three architects Gnter Katherl, Caramel architects also frequently cover Architekten. As Gnter Katherl states:
Martin Haller and Ulrich Aspetsberger larger projects. Successful examples are Caramel have finally arrived at creating
started out in 1999, by working on compe- the Science Park Linz to which an exten- the kind of housing that Vienna so desper-
titions together, in Martin Hallers kitchen. sion is currently being tackled, the Krems ately needs.
They won with their very first entry, a big, federal school centre and, last but not
international bidding with 300 partici- least, the World of Sports headquarters in www.caramel.at
pants and a great deal of prestige. Though
never realised, winning that competition
brought a great deal of recognition for the
trio who suddenly saw their names on
the title pages of several renowned archi-
tecture magazines. We basically had no
choice than further collaborate and weve
never regretted it! recalls Gnter Katherl.
The official founding of the office in
Vienna followed in 2001.

Having now grown into a team of 20

co-workers, Caramel just recently moved
into a new space perfectly designed to the
architects needs. For designing the new
office, we finally came to be our own cli-
ents about time! says Gnter Katherl.
With the compact working spaces effi- House CJ_5, patio view. Biennale Architettura 2016.
Photo: Hertha Hurnaus, Caramel Photo: Paul Kranzler, Caramel
ciency and the invitingly spacious mo-
bility sections for everything else, the
co-workers enjoy the new surroundings
so much they never feel the urge to go
home. With newly enhanced enthusiasm,
the team have resumed working on their
busy 2017 agenda.

Caramel projects currently in the works

are the two private homes of Haus Rock
and Haus am Berg. Two clean-shaped
and constructivist modern structures, they
offer interesting solutions, managing for
example a sloping plot (Haus am Berg)
and making use of overhanging upper
floors, a Caramel favourite to grant even
more space both up and below.

With the recently finished m24, a roof ex-

tension for a Vienna Grnderzeit house,
urban densification takes yet another turn
with Caramel. Almost not visible from
down below, the specific construction al-
Roof garden. Photo: Hertha Hurnaus, Caramel
lows the outer flowing into the interior,

Issue 52 | July 2017 | 123

fwp reception area.

A U S T R I A S L E G A L E X P E R T

fwp lawyers compete to win, with a

detailed view of the big picture
Always on the ball and highly efficient, the lawyers at Fellner Wratzfeld & Partners business law. The specialised know-how
(fwp) know their game. Highly praised by both clients and peers, the firm is of the partners and their teams in their re-
constantly expanding its circle of specialised and competent partners while at spective fields guarantees expertise for all
the same time keeping internationally connected through influential networking. scenarios. fwp represents mainly Austrian
and international private companies, but
TEXT: CORNELIA BRELOWSKI | PHOTOS: CHRISTOPH PANZER also has clients from the public sector.

Commitment is the key word and fwp
likes to use sports-related language when
they speak about their passion for law:
When it comes to working out the best
strategies for our clients, we get right into
the thick of things. A precise knowledge of
the rules of the game and maximum effort
keep us always at it. Down to the last mile,
on any court, at any match. Compete to
win, indeed, with a detailed strategy laid
out upfront.
As an internationally active Austrian law
firm, fwp covers the entire spectrum of
With top modern office spaces set in the
heart of Vienna, the one-stop shop law
firm of Fellner Wratzfeld & Partners has
made accessibility and service their high-
est aims. Their clients experience and ap-
preciate a 24-hour availability. At fwp, fast
response, quality and efficiency are the

124 | Issue 52 | July 2017

 Discover Germany | Business Profiles | Austrias Legal Expert

measure of all things. Academically based
legal expertise combined with economic
and commercial know-how form the pil-
lars of the firms international success.
Founded in 1999 in the heart of Vienna by
co-founders and lawyers Markus Fellner
and Kurt Wratzfeld, the firm started out
with a staff of five. Immediately adopt-
ing a pioneering role, the firm has since
followed the vision of a modern working
approach matching contemporary needs.
fwp was founded with the goal of growing
into a large law firm with a wide-reaching
structure.
of large corporations. Besides his law de-
gree, Markus Fellner holds a degree from
the Vienna University of Economics and
Business Administration.
Co-founder and partner Kurt Wratzfeld
specialises in individual and collective
employment law as well as general civil
law. He studied in both Vienna and Linz,
where he gained his doctorate, and has
been working as a lawyer since 1997 be-
fore co-founding fwp in 1999.
A classic tool for fwps own business strat-
egy is networking. As Fellner Wratzfeld &
Partners work has become increasingly
international, they can rely on an inten-
sive longstanding cooperation with in-
ternational partner firms. To fwp it makes
all the difference and is one of the most
important criteria for success. fwp has a
widespread international referral network
with law firms in over 110 countries. The
firm is also part of the global law firm net-
work TerraLex having more than 15,000
lawyers as members. fwp is also part of
the Association of European Lawyers
(AEL), which provides a strong platform
for pan-European cross-border transac-
tions and legal advice.

Today, fwp has more than a hundred quali- fwp reception area.

fied personnel. The fwp competence teams

are led by 22 partners. One of the leading
Austrian law firms in the business sector,
fwp offers legal support for banking and
finance, corporate, M&A (mergers and ac-
quisitions), real estate, infrastructure and
public procurement as well as reorganisa-
tion and restructuring. While mostly look-
ing after Austrian and international com-
panies, fwp also works for the public sector.
Markus Fellner advises on high-profile
corporate / M&A transactions, banking
and finance law, dispute resolution and
antitrust and competition law as well as
on complex corporate restructurings /
insolvencies. He has been extensively in-
volved in bank rescues and restructurings

fwp entrance area.

Modern offices.

Issue 52 | July 2017 | 125

Discover Germany | Business Profiles | Austrias Legal Expert
fwp reception area.
fwp reception area.
fwp ranks among the best of Austrias law
firms. Their wide-ranging excellence in
corporate/M&A, banking & finance, cap-
ital markets, as well as labour law plac-
es them regularly at the top of rankings.
This year, partner and co-founder Markus
Fellner took first place in the FORMAT
lawyers ranking in the category of bank-
ing law. A total of 100 law firms voted in
22 categories. Other top rankings went to
126 | Issue 52 | July 2017
Kurt Wratzfeld for labour law, Paul Luiki
for CEE work and Gregor Schett in the
field of investor lawsuits.
Banking & Finance: fwp advises major
banks on financing issues on an ongoing
basis, not only about project financing,
but also in connection with funding com-
plex consortiums and financing for com-
pany reorganisation purposes. fwp can
fwp reception area.
fwp reception area.
anticipate the legal challenges and issues,
and guide its clients accordingly.
Corporate / M&A: developing optimal
solutions in these fields requires extensive
knowledge and vast experience in many
different legal areas, including corporate,
tax, capital market, labour and tenancy as
well as numerous other fields. fwp advis-
es national and international companies

in the acquisition and sale of companies
as a core strength of the firm. The services
cover everything from legal due diligence
to antitrust regulations and fwps wide
experience in the private and public sec-
tor, especially relating to cross-border
transactions, takeover bids, private equity
and venture capital ensures the highest
degree of efficiency and deal stability.
Other subfields of commercial and busi-
ness law covered by fwps specialists are
real estate, infrastructure and procurement
as well as dispute resolution, both in court
and before arbitral tribunals.
Antitrust violations, another specialist
field of fwp, have become more and more
costly. Entire industries have come under
the scrutiny of antitrust authorities. fwp is
fwp partners.
Discover Germany | Business Profiles | Austrias Legal Expert
helping clients to become pro-active right
from the start, for instance by implement-
ing suitable compliance programmes. fwp
also provides advice on merger control,
antitrust and market abuse proceedings,
before Austrian and European courts as
well as antitrust authorities.
Transaction law makes up one of the big-
gest chunks of fwps work and has re-
ceived significant international recognition.
With long-standing experience in struc-
turing tailor-made solutions and an all-
encompassing understanding of business
matters under their belt, the teams at fwp
feel right at home in this area. In theCham-
bers and Partners Europe 2016 rankings,
fwp and especially co-founder Dr. Markus
Fellner have recently received high acco-
lades: Very efficient, quick and straightfor-
ward. A top choice for large-scale, complex
mandates with an excellent level of service.
Clients mention outstanding negotiation
skills and the ability to see the big picture
in a transaction. A market leader with
an impressive track record, Dr. Markus
Fellner is known for possessing a detailed
commercial understanding and for effi-
ciently pushing transactions forward.
Fast response, efficiency and a view of
the whole while never forgetting a cru-
cial detail make for the highly committed
full-service strategy of Fellner Wratzfeld &
Partners. When fwp throws a ball, it will be
the perfect throw. They are happy to catch
yours at any time, safely and securely.
www.fwp.at
Issue 52 | July 2017 | 127
Discover Germany | Culture | Culture Calendar

xxxxxxx.
Mussels on a Beach is part of the exhibition Pure Nature Art. Photo:Photo:
VG Bild-Kunst
xxxxxxx

Culture Calendar
Save the date as there are plenty of great events scheduled for the weeks to 12 Steiff Summer, Giengen an der Brenz
come. From music festivals and exciting exhibitions, to fantastic sport events and (30 June 2 July)
social highlights, Discover Germanys Culture Calendar is your perfect guide to In 2017, legendary German brand Steiff is once
what not to miss in July. again inviting to its annual Steiff Summer. Taking
place at the Steiff museum, it is a family event
TEXT: THOMAS SCHROERS by a family company with special auctions and
many more highlights for young and old.
altonale19, Hamburg (until 2 July) Pure Nature Art, Fhr www.steiff.com
Celebrating one of Hamburgs most fascinating (25 June 7 January 2018)
districts, the altonale19 is a festival for music, This exhibition is dedicated to natural materials
art, film and literature. It is a unique conver- in art. There are many ways artists weave nat- Silvretta Classic Rallye, Montafon
gence of street festival, culture programme, ural material into their pieces. The exhibition will (4 9 July)
commerce and art and is always exciting and examine such ways and dive deep into various For the 20th time, classic car enthusiasts gath-
exceptional. related installations. er for the Silvretta Classic Rallye in the Austrian
www.altonale.de www.mkdw.de Montafon region. Kicking off on the four with

128 | Issue 52 | July 2017

 Discover Germany | Culture | Culture Calendar

pre-Rallye events, the start of the Rallye is dated

for the 6 July. Both from the inside of the cars
and from the outside, there is much to see and
experience for car lovers.
www.event.motorpresse.de

Splash Festival, Ferropolis near

Grfenhainichen (6 9 July)
This year, the Hip Hop festival Splash is taking
place for the 20th time. Staged at Ferropolis,
Splash is devoted to bringing some of the gen-
res biggest stars. The 2017 line-up includes
Marteria, Travis Scott and Mac Miller.
www.splash-festival.de

YOU 2017, Berlin (7 9 July)

The trade fair YOU is the main fair for youth
culture targeting the segments music.sports.
Steiff. Photo: Son Tran
lifestyle and Education.career.future. It is a mix

Performing at the Splash Festival: German rapper Marteria. Photo: Der Robert

Issue 52 | July 2017 | 129

Discover Germany | Culture | Culture Calendar

Fireworks over the illuminated Heidelberg castle. Photo: Patrick Freitag

Il Barbiere di Siviglia will be staged during the Komische Oper Festival. Photo: mariozeffiri

130 | Issue 52 | July 2017

 Discover Germany | Culture | Culture Calendar

MTB Festival. Photo: Zach Dischner

of entertainment and education, attracting more

than 50,000 visitors who are interested in their
culture and future possibilities.
www.you.de

Heidelberg castle lighting (8 July)

Thousands of people visit Heidelberg to see
this. Bengal fires plunge the historic castle into
a mysterious light, before a spectacular fire-
work production illuminates sky and city. The
Heidelberg castle lighting follows a more than
400-year-old tradition
www.heidelberg-event.com

East meets West, Thalwil / Zurich

(until 15 July)
Swiss gallery AB43 is bridging the gap between
east and west. The new exhibition, titled East
meets West presents porcelain works from var-
ious Eastern and Western artists highlighting a
multifaceted approach to contemporary culture.
The Hidden Czanne. Photo: The Metropolitan Museum of Art/Art Resource/Scala, Florence
www.ab43contemporary.com

Issue 52 | July 2017 | 131

Discover Germany | Culture | Culture Calendar

Komische Oper Festival, Berlin (11 16 July)

During this one-week festival, the Komische
Oper takes a look back at the new produc-
tions of the season. Dedicated to both the
music and the theatre in the term musical the-
atre, events will include works by Strawinsky,
Strauss and more.
www.komische-oper-berlin.de

Melt Festival, Ferropolis near

Grfenhainichen (14 16 July)
One of the leading electronic music festivals
takes place in mid-July. The Melt festival fea-
tures an impressive line-up: Die Antwoord,
Bonobo, Phoenix and many more will take cen-
tre stage during the three-day event, bound to
make you dance.
www.meltfestival.de
The Melt Festival in the evening. Photo: Martin Terber

Classic Open Air, Berlin (20 24 July)
Each month, Berlin offers many attractions. In
July, one of these will be the Classic Open Air
at the Gendarmenmarket, taking place for the
26th time. Roofed by the stars, classic and
modern melodies will be played in front of en-
ticing architecture.
www.classicopenair.de
MTB Festival, Serfaus-Fiss-Ladis
(31 July 6 August)
It is Europes only MTB youth festival and
thus the stage for the stars of tomorrow. The
Mountainbike Festival in the Austrian Bikepark
Serfaus-Fiss-Ladis offers a great opportunity
for young bikers to compete in all disciplines.
www.bikepark-sfl.at
The Hidden Czanne, Basel (ongoing)
Dedicated to one of the founders of modern
art, Paul Czanne, the exhibition looks behind
the curtain of his groundbreaking work as a
draftsman. It is a little known, but astonishing,
part of his oeuvre and at the kunstmuseum
Basel more than 154 sheets will be shown.
www.kunstmuseumbasel.ch

Parade at the altonale in Hamburg. Photo: Klaus Friese

132 | Issue 52 | July 2017

 Discover Germany | Culture | Culture Calendar

Silvretta Classic Rallye. Photo: Conal Gallagehr

Berlins Classic Open Air. Photo: visitBerlin

Issue 52 | July 2017 | 133

Discover Germany | Culture | Barbara Geier Column
Theres no place like home
TEXT & PHOTO: BARBARA GEIER
Here we are. Summer. Ive finally decid-
ed that it might actually be worthwhile
to change the wardrobe order from win-
ter to summer and move those tees from
back to front row. Lets just hope that, by
the time youre reading this, I havent had
to chuck them back again. In any case,
were thinking sun and were thinking
holidays.
Any plans yet? Maybe the usual British
suspect Spain? Or staying in the UK
and following the growing trend of do-
mestic holidays. Be it for Brexit-induced
pound devaluation reasons or others.
Germans, for their part, who are known
as Urlaubsweltmeister (holiday world
champions), have known for years that
their country is a prime holiday destina-
tion. Holidays at home are all the rage.
Yes, sure, the classic beach destinations
Italy, Spain and Greece are still top but,
based on figures by organisations such
as the German Tourist Board (Deutsche
Zentrale fr Tourismus), on average more
than a third of Germans also go on holi-
day in their own country each year.
Why? Well, its convenient in times of
international unrest. The Preis-Leis-
tungs-Verhltnis (value for money), If youre into history or monumental his-
a particular German obsession, is very
good and, it needs to be said, the coun-
try actually has a great deal to offer and
is much more varied than many would
think. Theres beaches (yes, in the north,
and beautiful they are), lakes and moun-
134 | Issue 52 | July 2017
tains, great hiking, cycling and a wide
array of cities to discover. In particular,
city trips are a growing trend with the
big three Berlin, Hamburg and Munich
as long-term favourites but, increasing-
ly, smaller cities are also on the list for
Germans when exploring their coun-
try. Ive always thought that from north
to south and west to east, from Lbeck
to Regensburg and Trier to Grlitz, the
country has so much to offer in terms of
beautiful, interesting and historic cities
that many international visitors overlook.
Well, you shouldnt, I said it here.
So, yes, I can understand my fellow
countrymen and women pencilling in
a Deutschlandurlaub. According to
German holiday site trivago.de, whove
analysed search enquiries, there are celebrations of the 500th anniversary of
a number of specific summer holiday the Reformation. So, you can see theres
trend destinations this year for Germans. variety and every interest being catered
Theyve compiled a top ten list and, in- for in good old Germany. In any case,
terestingly, half of them are in Germany. and no matter if you consider giving it a
At number one: a place called Glowe on go for a quick trip this year or not, I hope
Rgen, Germanys largest island in the you enjoy your holidays! Fingers crossed
Baltic Sea, described as a small town with for all of us that the sun continues to
kilometres of fine, sandy beach. Sounds shine down on the British Isles, just for
good to me. a change
Barbara Geier is a London-based freelance
torical events, you might want to check writer, translator and communications
out another one in the said top ten list: consultant. She is also the face behind
Lutherstadt Wittenberg, birthplace of the www.germanyiswunderbar.com, a German
travel and tourism guide and blog that was
Reformation where Martin Luther nailed
set up together with UK travel writer Andrew
his 95 Theses to the door of the local Eames in 2010.
Castle Church and a centre of this years
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