Schmitz Cargobull operations network recognised as a pioneer in Global Production Benchmarking

Dr. Günter Schweitzer, COO Schmitz Cargobull, opened the ceremony with a presentation on the development of the operations strategy and the realignment of site roles in the network. "This award is an impressive and independent confirmation of our approach to the internationalisation of our production footprint," said Günter Schweitzer. "Our decentralised, near-to-market approach to value creation is unique in the trailer industry. We want to be globally close to our customers, i.e. produce locally, procure locally, be a local employer and local partner, but operate globally. This increases our resilience, reduces our carbon footprint and strengthens customer satisfaction."
 
The Product Line Manager for General Cargo, Ralph Kleideiter, presented the Schmitz Cargobull operations network for curtainsiders. Using the example of curtainsider trailers, he explained the control processes for the five production sites with which Schmitz Cargobull ensures customer-oriented supply to the European markets.
 
At the Altenberge plant, the participants were able to get an idea of the central Schmitz Cargobull axle production and the production for long beams and outer frames, from which the production network for curtainsiders is supplied. In addition to the automation aspects of production, the control aspects of network logistics were discussed in depth. During the subsequent product presentation, the experts from product management explained the technical modular system of curtainsider trailers. Thanks to its unique modular design and its end-coated individual parts, it enables flexible and reliable final assembly worldwide.
 
In the afternoon session, Schmitz Cargobull experts discussed with the participants in a "World Café" session about cross-location procedures for the planning of new factories, standardised networked processes for international order fulfilment and current structural measures for increasing supply security in an increasingly volatile business environment.
 
In the final feedback, the participants of the benchmark visit were enthusiastic about the flexible Schmitz Cargobull network. The exemplary interaction of the strategy process with consistent process-oriented implementation based on a strong network culture and employee motivation was emphasised. The valuable tips for improvement from the discussions with the experts will be incorporated into the further network design at Schmitz Cargobull.