High honours for VAUDE

As the Minister President of the state of Baden-Württemberg, Winfried Kretschmann, stated at the Mannheim Palace: »Every community urgently depends on exceptionally committed people, such as those being honored today, because they are so actively involved. Because they think ahead and outside of the box. Because they raise their voices and speak out on the behalf of others.«

Antje von Dewitz was one of twenty-two to be honored this year. The judges were clear in their reasons for her commendation: »She has clearly been able to build on her father’s success with innovative spirit and conviction, as well as a sustainable, fair and environmentally friendly business approach. Furthermore, her keen instincts, farsightedness, and great sense of responsibility for society and nature distinguish her.«

»I am very proud to have received this award«, the dedicated entrepreneur stated at the ceremony in Mannheim Castle. As the managing director in second generation of the family-owned and run company in southern Germany, she accepted the order: »Such an award for civic engagement is important and naturally it makes me proud because it validates what we are doing. The ceremony was very touching and I really feel honored to be amongst such interesting personalities, who received the Order of Merit with me.«

Under Antje von Dewitz, the outdoor manufacturer VAUDE has consistently pursued a path of sustainability and social management, which has now been successfully implemented in all areas of the company. A leadership culture of trust, a 40 per cent share of women in management positions, an outstanding commitment to refugees within Germany, and the company's own organic canteen are just a few examples of how responsible entrepreneurship becomes visible.

In addition, VAUDE was awarded the European Business Award in "Environmental & Corporate Sustainability", and recognized as one of the eleven best European companies.

Of the more than 33,000 participating companies, VAUDE was able to win over the jury of experts at the end of a long selection process. As VAUDE CEO, Antje von Dewitz, stated: »This award shows that with our holistic concept of environmental protection and sustainability, we are sending important signals far beyond our industry.«

The award underscores how far the company has proceeded on the path of sustainability and reaffirms its position as Europe's most sustainable outdoor brand.

VAUDE has consequently focused its operating procedures and business activities on promoting environmental friendliness and sustainability throughout the company. Since this decision, it has proven that socially and ecologically responsible business principles can also be economically successful. The company's sales performance is consistently above the industry average. Products are manufactured under strict environmental and social standards according to the Green Shape label. VAUDE publishes an annual sustainability report in accordance with GRI guidelines and is climate-neutral at the company's headquarters on Lake Constance.

»Through the EBA, we have been able to once again confirm that our philosophy of sustainability is an economic success factor.« Antje von Dewitz, proudly commenting on receiving this accolade from such a high caliber, international panel of judges stated: »I am very pleased to have been chosen for this award among such a strong international group of candidates. The award for this outstanding performance goes to our whole team, because sustainability is teamwork and a lot of people in the company are involved in this effort.«