The award ceremony for the TOP 100 competition took place on June 27 as part of the German SME Summit. Ranga Yogeshwar congratulated Dr.-Ing. Max Schlötter GmbH & Co. KG from Geislingen on its success. The science journalist accompanied the innovation competition, which was held for the 32nd time, as a mentor.
Outstanding culture of innovation
Schlötter was recognized for its special culture of innovation. One example was an employee who had an idea on how to avoid the formation of nitrous gases when pickling nickel-phosphorus alloys. He suggested using a special inhibitor to prevent the formation of these gases without negatively affecting the result. He carried out initial tests in the "Genius Hour" - an internal format in which employees can test ideas in the laboratory. Convincing results are passed on to the "Ideas Factory", where a steering committee decides on their implementation. If a proposal is approved, Schlötter starts a structured process based on a special project management method that combines traditional and agile processes. Managing Director Dr. Michael Zöllinger describes the company's innovative atmosphere as follows: "Our innovation work is characterized by the fact that, despite our long tradition, we still tick a bit like a start-up."
Responsibility for generations
For Dr. Zöllinger, innovation means above all "boldly breaking new ground". This is why the company's strategic focus has expanded significantly: In addition to electrolyte additives, it now develops complete surface solutions with novel properties. This is the company's response to important trends such as the substitution of substances of concern. Internationalization is also being driven forward in order to establish sustainable technologies in new markets.