History
Search
1996-2000 Production
New premises

The company crisis
In 1996 the growth in turnover turned out to be less than originally calculated, the company had overstretched itself and bankruptcy was threatening. Andreas Contag had sleepless nights thinking of what it meant for his employees and his family. This was an immense threat to his personal existence, for failed entrepreneurs do not get unemployment benefit and no pension contributions had yet been paid. Not to mention the four small children - and the debt.
After six weeks of suffering he had to to tell the team the facts. In one to one discussions, he explained the situation and gave notice. The tears flowed, it was a fine team which was now breaking up.
On the next day the sun shone and the staff was united. "Tell us how we can get more orders! We will even work without pay!" - The boss was speechless. He quickly worked out a plan of action. The production staff got on the phone and called up electronic companies. They were really lucky and hit the bull's-eye. A top-class company in the automotive sector was looking for a manufacturer, who could deliver quickly. Numerous orders followed, everyone was happy to do overtime, some only went home after beavering away for 32 hours.
After just a few months, the outstanding salaries could be paid, including a premium as thanks. During this time, the staff had learned how direct action and commitment contributed to the continued existence of the company and their jobs. In the most impressive way, Andreas Contag had seen the rewards that come from fairness and treating the employees as personal individuals. This period of crisis produced many lessons. A lot of conclusions were drawn and basic measures introduced so that this event would remain a once off for everyone involved.
Investments

The start of multilayer production

Berlin Environmental Prize 1999


Your personal contact

Guido Strehl
Assistant to the general
manager
+49 30 351 788-225
guido.strehlcontag.de