Erfurt & Sohn, a manufacturer of specialty papers, wall expert and market leader in the production and distribution of paintable wall coverings, is well on its way to celebrating its 200th anniversary in 2027. In order to successfully navigate the traditional family company in economically challenging times and changing markets, the Wuppertal-based manufacturer has now presented its business strategy for the next four years. The company has decided to pursue a wide-ranging and groundbreaking investment program in the amount of around 30 million euros. As part of the program, Erfurt is emphasizing the systematic improvement and further development of economic and energy-saving processes, a focus on CO2 savings and the expansion of important areas of expertise. The goal: To continue to offer customers excellent services at an attractive price, while at the same time continuing to drive innovation and solve problems for the industry.
What it means: Most of the approved funds will be invested into the production facilities. The measures taken include the installation of new machinery to enable the production of a wider range of products in the wallpaper division and to improve efficiency throughout the production process. Ultimately, these actions not only strengthen Wuppertal as a place of business, but also consolidate and improve Erfurt's attractiveness as a high-performance regional employer and a reliable partner for the retail sector. The material preparation process is also to be optimized in order to ensure that the proportion of recycled material in the manufacturing process continues to increase.
The significant expansion of the “specialty papers” division also suggests that there will be further growth beyond the wallpaper segment. Additional funds are also being invested in the company's own power plant to consistently advance the efficient, energy-saving and sustainable generation of electricity, steam and heat at the Wuppertal site. The planned sustainability measures are based on Erfurt's long-standing commitment to environmental protection: With a view to the future, the aim is to continuously increase the proportion of renewable, recycled raw materials and to systematically reduce CO2 emissions. The areas of logistics and infrastructure will also be reinforced through the introduction of centralized control of bobbin logistics, high-bay technologies and the expansion of drop-shipment capacities. Last but not least, the investment package also entails a fundamental modernization of the entire IT landscape of Erfurt & Sohn. This enhances security and streamlines processes, optimizing numerous workflows to the benefit of the company, business partners and customers alike.
Managing Partner Felicitas Erfurt-Gordon believes that the company is well positioned to meet future challenges in view of the approved investment package: “The Erfurt brand is synonymous with innovation and our distinctive ability to respond effectively to changing industry and customer demands. We think outside the box, listen to the market and are committed to constantly developing and expanding our offering based on customer needs. We are convinced that the comprehensive investment program that has now been approved reflects our commitment and ambition to continue to actively shape the market with our products and services and to provide innovations as well as proven product ranges that meet our high quality standards.”
