The host, Dr. Andreas Hettich, informed the participating Managers, Works Councils of Timber and Furniture Industries and representatives of District Government Detmold about Hettich’s positive development.

With 36 subsidiaries and 100 partner agencies worldwide, Hettich belongs to international market leaders in furniture fittings. Although Germany is Hettich’s main location, Dr. Hettich pointed out the company’s production plants abroad: “The plants in Czech Republic and Spain co-operate with our production plants in Germany. We decided to source out in order to safe jobs in Germany.” The production plants in the USA, Brazil, Russia and China are there to serve regional markets.
Dr. Andreas Hettich and Minister Christa Thoben agree on the fact that a qualified apprenticeship is highly important. “We believe that modern and future-oriented apprenticeship is an investment of vital importance”, explained Dr. Hettich while presenting the Training Centre.

A tour in the Training Centre provided the visitors an insight into Hettich’s training structures which orientate on the latest technological and organisational standards and perfectly integrate theory and practical experience in the respective professions. Trainees can implement production projects by using newest technology, e.g. a robot. Hans Riepe, who is in charge of technical training in Kirchlengern, stressed that Hettich’s trainees from beginning on learn to appreciate their own work by being part of creative and productive operations. The visitors also found out that Hettich co-operates closely with universities and colleges.

Christa Thoben thanked Dr. Hettich for giving insight into a small family business that has developed to a Global Player and strengthened its German location at the same time. “North Rhine-Westphalia’s economic power results from outstanding companies like Hettich, which succeed in operating worldwide from their origin locations”, explained Christa Thoben.