Wemo Automation’s expansion in Germany: A year of growth and optimism
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2024-08-20
Wemo Automation GmbH, the German subsidiary of Wemo Automation AB, is celebrating its first year in the market. Mikael Westerberg, Chief Operating Officer of the company, shares the successes, challenges, and plans for the future.
Strong comeback in the German market
After several years of absence, Wemo Automation is back in Germany with its own subsidiary. The company considers the country one of its key home markets, and now they have returned stronger than ever. Mikael Westerberg, COO of Wemo Automation GmbH, explains the importance of once again having a direct presence in Germany.
“Germany has always been a key market for us, but during a certain period, our visibility in the market was limited. Having our own company here again feels fantastic and is crucial for us to be close to our customers and provide them with the service they expect.”
Customer focus and market segments
Wemo is known for its innovative automation solutions, especially in the plastics industry, which is the company’s primary focus area. However, many of Wemo’s customers supply plastic components to various industry segments, such as the automotive, pharmaceutical, packaging, and electronics industries, giving the company a broad presence across multiple markets.
Mikael Westerberg notes that the German market differs from the Swedish one, primarily due to a larger share of customers in the automotive industry.
“The automotive sector has historically been a significant part of our business in Germany, and this is where we see the biggest difference compared to Sweden. At the same time, we are seeing growing demand in other segments, such as the packaging industry and warehouse management with our xPacker concept.
We see great opportunities to grow in these new industries, which is an important part of our long-term strategy in Germany,” Mikael adds.
Automation solution with Wemo xPacker
Future plans and key milestones
Going forward, Wemo Automation aims to further strengthen its presence in Germany. On September 1, 2024, the company will open a new office 30 minutes outside Frankfurt with both a showroom and training facilities. This will be an important place to demonstrate the company’s broad product portfolio and offer hands-on training for customers and partners.
In October, Wemo will also participate in Fakuma 2024, one of Europe’s largest trade fairs for the plastics industry.
“We look forward to showcasing our latest solutions and products at Fakuma. It will also be an opportunity to meet our customers and partners in person, which is extremely important to us,” says Mikael.
The team behind the success
One of the keys to Wemo’s success in Germany has been building a strong and cohesive team. Mikael is particularly proud of how they have managed to transfer the so-called “Wemo spirit” to Germany.
“The Wemo spirit is about everyone, regardless of role, striving to help and collaborate. This is something we have successfully exported to our German team, and it has truly contributed to our success,” he says.
The team in Germany currently consists of Mikael himself, a salesperson, and two service technicians. Plans are already in place to further strengthen the service side, something that points to the company’s growing presence and importance in the market.
Mikael Westerberg
General Manager of Wemo Automation GmbH
Manager, Aftersales and Service for Wemo Automation AB
Has worked at Wemo since 2016. With his extensive experience and great interest in technology, he is responsible for the daily operations of Wemo GmbH. He strives to ensure that customers, partners, and employees feel seen and heard.
Dennis Massbaum
Regional Sales Manager for Wemo Automation GmbH
New to the plastics industry but has extensive experience in technical sales and is a skilled relationship builder.
Gerd Müller
Service Technician for Wemo Automation GmbH
Brings extensive experience in automation. Was able to get to work on the first day and is incredibly knowledgeable.
Markus Luckmann
Service Technician for Wemo Automation GmbH
Has many years of experience in software and electrical engineering and, together with Gerd, forms a skilled service team.
Johannes Kjellgren
CEO of Wemo Automation GmbH
CEO of Wemo Automation AB
Two strong brands – one shared future
Since Wemo became part of the Japanese Yushin Group, the company has gained further strength in its product portfolio. Despite Yushin being a much larger company, they have chosen to retain and highlight Wemo’s brand. Johannes Kjellgren, CEO of Wemo Automation AB, sees the collaboration as a major advantage.
“Linear robot technology has never felt more relevant. Together with Yushin, we can offer even more advanced solutions while maintaining Wemo’s unique identity and strong focus on quality and sustainability,” says Johannes.
Summary
After a successful first year in Germany, Wemo Automation GmbH looks forward to a future full of opportunities. With a strong team, a clear strategy, and support from the owners in the Yushin Group, the company is ready to continue growing and help its customers automate production in a smart and cost-effective way.
Contact Wemo Automation GmbH
mikael.westerberg@wemo.se
+46 (0)370 65 85 81