VAUDE’s new specialized production facility at
its company headquarters in southern Germany, VAUDE Manufaktur, doesn’t look
like a typical industrial building with its warm-toned, blond wood façade. The new 2-million euro production plant built
by the outdoor outfitter began operation at the beginning of the year. The role
that sustainability plays in the facility – as in the surrounding buildings – is
unmistakable. Plenty of natural wood and energy-efficient strategies ensure a
comfortable, healthy working space. 42 employees have finally returned to the VAUDE
Manufaktur at the company headquarters and are thrilled with the space. Due to
a major fire in 2015, production had been temporarily moved to a rented
production plant. Approximately 100,000 bike bags and backpacks are made in the
1,800 m2 factory – utilizing craftsmanship that meets highly technological
standards. VAUDE will continue to expand its “Made in Germany” production,
which is growing by about 20 percent annually.
"We have deliberately
chosen to strengthen production at our company headquarters and to invest in a
new, highly specialized production facility which represents our values, our
roots and our core competencies. We are proud of our "Made in Germany” products
which are in high demand around the world," said Antje von Dewitz, VAUDE
CEO. "We are also pleased that we can once again show the visitors on our
company tours our own production facility as a highlight. Interest in the facility
is enormous."
Since 1980, VAUDE has had
its own production plant at its headquarters in southern Germany. Starting out
with the production of backpacks, it now primarily manufactures waterproof panniers
as well as urban bags and daypacks for the VAUDE segment, Packs ‘n Bags. After the former production plant was
severely damaged in 2015 due to a lightening strike, VAUDE decided to build a
new, larger facility at the headquarters in the face of strong growth of its “Made
in Germany” products.
"Made in Germany" - environmentally friendly and long-lasting
At its Tettnang
headquarters, VAUDE manufactures high-quality, long-lasting products featuring
100-percent waterproofing using high frequency welding methods. Each product is
handcrafted on special machines involving about 20 steps. The craftsmanship of
these products can be seen in the smallest details throughout the process which
involves cutting pattern pieces, HF welding, sewing, quality control and
packaging. To leave the smallest possible ecological footprint, production is
100% climate neutral and EMAS eco-certified. VAUDE completely sustains from using
environmentally harmful PVC that is found in conventional tarpaulin. Instead,
the company uses alternative materials that are environmentally friendly and just as waterproof. In terms of sustainable product
development, VAUDE already takes the product’s lifespan and minimization of
material waste into account at the beginning of the design phase. Last year,
VAUDE initiated a refugee project that used material waste to make shopping
bags. This initiative was so popular that it is now responsible for an entire
product line. Future upcycling projects are certain to be exciting.
A VAUDE Classic – the Aqua Series
At the same time
that the VAUDE Manufaktur began operation, the Aqua pannier line is heading
into the new season with a complete re-launch. "Made in Germany"
quality is what this successful VAUDE classic stands for. Aqua panniers made of durable, PVC-free,
absolutely waterproof tarpaulin materials are reliable companions for any
biking adventure, be it large or small.
Ecological wooden construction for well being
As with its recently remodeled headquarters,
VAUDE has attached great importance to a comfortable working environment, excellent
lighting and a cafeteria in the new production facility. To achieve its goals,
VAUDE decided to build a wooden structure rather than a standard industrial building.
"Vorarlberger
Holzbaukunst," (Austrian wooden architecture) emphasized
Erwin Gutensohn, Head of Finance at VAUDE. The building will soon feature a “green”
roof contributing to biodiversity. LED lighting, triple glazing and high quality
insulation all ensure high energy efficiency. "We are pleased that we can offer an exceptional working
environment for our employees and that we are once again all reunited,"
said Antje von Dewitz.
VAUDE "Made in Germany"
1980 VAUDE begins production of backpacks and bags
at its Tettnang location in southern Germany.
1990 VAUDE begins manufacturing 100% waterproof panniers
and introduces high-frequency welding methods.
1999 VAUDE launches the successful
Aqua bike bag series to the market.
2015 Major fire in the VAUDE production facility
2017 The newly built VAUDE Manufaktur facility
begins operation
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