Certainty and trust were more than ever a theme in 2020

2020 was not an easy year. Covid-19 had everything to do with that. However, Klaes, a specialist in the development of software for window and door manufacturers, facade manufacturers and conservatory builders, ended the year on a positive note. During the first lockdown, the road was mapped out and Klaes' entire team was fully committed to it.

However, according to the management, Klaes can not only present a good report for 2020, but in the second half of the year many orders were already won, which will ensure a good start in 2021. Security and trust were more than ever a theme in 2020, both for new customers and machine projects and for the optimization of solutions at existing customers. Lars Klaes and Miriam Berzen take stock and talk about the markets, activities and products, as well as the goals
for 2021.

Markets

It was first and foremost a positive sign, that once again many companies worldwide invested in Klaes' software for the first time. This ensures a high proportion of new software developments in total sales. Among those new customers were again some large companies, which are already working with the software now or will start using it in 2021. The situation in the German-speaking countries was good, but beyond that (exports) there was still a lot of difference between the various countries. While it went very well in the Czech Republic, it was extremely difficult in Spain. China is one of the most important markets for Klaes, but there the severe lockdown at the beginning of last year caused a decline. In the second half of the year, that backlog was largely eliminated thanks to the efforts of the local team and participation in local fairs, because those were also the only events worldwide that could go on.

Activities

In all countries, the cancellation of trade fairs and other events was successfully compensated for by the organization of online seminars and events. This started early in the year with "Klaes web-fensterbau" to replace the canceled trade fair Fensterbau in Nuremberg. There was also great interest in the targeted webinars on specific topics, some of which were also organized together with partners. For example, the last webinar on greenhouse construction with a focus on the Klaes 3D software and the system from Steinbach alone attracted interested parties from eighteen different countries. But also the local events in small groups and completely in accordance with corona measures were a success. Finally, the digital possibilities for individual support were also widely used. 

Products

Also, the fact that, partly due to Covid-19, the demand for digitization was only increasing opened up new opportunities for Klaes. The wide range of products allowed the software house to support customers in many areas. This started with the supply and set-up of offices for home work. This was followed by orders for efficiently organizing mobile work via the Internet: software, servers, document management and also telephony. Each time, Klaes was able to propose an appropriate solution. In addition, the existing software solutions in the Cloud were an important pillar of success. The decision by window and door manufacturers, facade builders and conservatory builders themselves to invest in the development of new products also increased the demand for software: Klaes 3D for patio covers and residential extension in glass, Klaes TürDesigner for house and room doors and the integration of solutions for shutters, blinds, door panels and accessories. 

Targets for 2021

In 2021, Klaes intends to continue on momentum and push forward with digitalization in the sector. With the proven long-term relationship with customers and partners and the innovative solutions that are again in the pipeline and that will be of interest to all manufacturers and distributors of windows, doors, façade solutions and conservatories - whether small or large - the software house has all the trumps to succeed in this aim, according to the management.