Sihl named one of leading innovators in Germany

Germany-based Sihl has been awarded the TOP 100 seal 2024, a recognition compamedia has been awarding since 1993 for special innovative strength and above average innovation success to medium-sized companies.

The renowned innovation researcher Prof Dr Nikolaus Franke from the Vienna University of Economics and Business and his team examine the innovative strength of all participants on the basis of more than 100 criteria from five categories innovation-promoting top management; innovation climate; innovative processes and organization; external orientation/open innovation and innovation success.

To ensure equal opportunities, the TOP 100 seal is awarded in three size categories: up to 50, 51 to 200 and more than 200 employees. As the requirements of the selection process are very high, out of more than 3,000 interested parties, only companies that think they have a chance of winning the award usually apply.

In the 31st edition of the innovation competition, 388 SMEs applied for the award, out of which, 287 were successful and now bear the TOP 100 seal 2024. A maximum of 100 companies per size category can be honored.

‘We live innovation every day and being one of the TOP 100 is a great honor for us. We are proud that our work is bearing fruit and being recognized,’ commented Peter K. Wahsner, CEO of the Sihl Group.

‘Innovation is an important part of our corporate strategy. We develop innovative processes, technologies and products for a sustainable future. This is how we ensure our long-term success with our customers,’ added Steffen Ohr, vice president of innovation at the Sihl Group.

He and his team take a holistic approach to innovation: scouting, research and development, business development and initial commercialization – these are the three steps to success. And they are not limited to Sihl products, but also include technologies and business models.

For instance, with the innovative business model of its adelmo brand, Sihl has rethought the path from packaging idea to sales success. Using an online 3D configurator, customers can fast and simply create and order their desired design for customized printed stand-up pouches on the B2B platform. Thanks to the cooperation with local adelmo partners, the pouches are produced and delivered within just five days.