Relentless focus on quality for 160 years

Proudly looking back at what has been achieved, but above all looking forward to what is yet to come

Wilhelm Karrenberg started a one-man business as a manufacturer of locks in 1865 with a limited number of tools. Thanks to its relentless focus on quality, WILKA is now celebrating its 160th anniversary and the family business has grown into a medium-sized specialist in locking technology. Profile spoke with Robert Schlieper, CEO in the sixth generation, about values and traditions, changes and his vision of the future.

How does this milestone feel?

"Although I have only been able to make a small contribution so far, I am proud to be the sixth generation to lead this company. WILKA stands for quality, reliability and long-term relationships. Our success is based on the work of many generations, our employees and management."

What milestones have shaped WILKA?

"There are a few. I would especially highlight the digitization of production processes in the 1990s and the introduction of electronic access components. The establishment of WILKA Poland in 2001 was another important step toward internationalization. In addition, our product range was expanded to include solutions for windows and escape doors. The expansion of our headquarters in Velbert this year is another clear signal for the future."

"Surely one of the most important aspects for me is the involvement of the shareholders. To this day, these are the three sons of the founder. The importance of the family business still weighs heavily here. Our shareholders do not think about short-term profits, but about the success of the company across generations. Therefore, they support decisions that are important not only for the future of the company, but also all WILKA employees
benefit."

Is there a personal event that particularly stuck out to you?

"The moment my father passed the leadership to me was very moving. We had a clear transition plan, which we stuck to. I especially remember the surprise party for his farewell and the big banner that said, 'WILKA says thank you.' That was a strong sign that he was highly valued as a CEO and a role model for me."

How has the corporate culture evolved?

"Obviously our culture has changed over the decades, but as a family business, personal contact is still important. Joint outings and meetings used to be more common. Nowadays, with all the digitization, that's more difficult. Still, our doors are open and we help where we can. Every employee is an important part of the WILKA family."

You've been there officially since 2010. As grandson of Friedrich Karrenberg and son of Wolfgang K. Schlieper, that connection has definitely been there much longer?

"Actually, I always say that I have been on contract since 2010, but have been associated with WILKA since I could walk. As a child, I was proud to help Grandpa in the company on Saturdays to open the mail. He still collected it from the post office and distributed everything to the different departments. As a teenager, I was allowed to do a vacation job. I enjoyed it immensely, but was aware that my work was judged more severely than that of other workmen. Therefore, I worked extremely hard. One day a co-worker said to me, "Robert, you can feel free to stop for today. We'll come back to work tomorrow.'"

What is your vision for the next 10 years?

"WILKA will continue to exist in the future as an independent family business. We will continue to strengthen our market share and, as in the past, stand firm against the big players in the industry. I believe it is important to preserve the culture and values of the company. Whether the leadership of the company will remain within the family after me, I don't know yet. But it is important that the management continues to work with heart and soul to further develop the company so that it can continue to exist in the future."

What would you like to say to employees, partners and customers on this anniversary?

"I would like to thank everyone wholeheartedly: the partners for their continuous support, our customers for their years of loyalty, and especially the employees, because they are our company's greatest capital."