Frank Schmehl joined the former HD-Wiegetechnik GmbH in Wetzlar as a partner and managing director in 2003. Responsible for sales and controlling, he expanded the machine programme and sales structure. Following the retirement of company founder Heinz Debus last year, Mr Schmehl is now responsible for the entire business operations of what is now MultiWeigh GmbH.
pj: Mr Schmehl, what are the current priorities? in your company?
Frank Schmehl: We have defined several corporate goals and are working on many improvements to the production process. The main focus is on the development of new, more efficient machines and the associated software. A multihead weigher is defined by the Performance in terms of output and weighing accuracy. We will continue to be a world leader in this area. Our already high level of service and customer support will continue to be expanded and new services such as training programmes and seminars will be added.
pj: What particular challenges did you face last year?
Frank Schmehl: We acquired the company in 2017 Completely reorganised and our long-standing partner, B+M Elektronik, were purchased and integrated. This also marked the Renaming of the company to MultiWeigh GmbH. B+M was previously a system supplier for electronic components and software. This step will enable us to generate even shorter development cycles and accelerate further development. To your question: That was the challenge in 2017!
pj: How do you assess the economic situation?
Frank Schmehl: The economic situation in Germany is currently excellent. The investment climate in our target group - the food industry - is favoured by good consumer demand and favourable interest rates. However, political changes in Europe and around the world must be taken into account, such as Brexit and the current trend towards nationalism and protectionism. There I see Dangers for free trade and therefore also for German mechanical engineering companies.
pj: What effects do you expect for MultiWeigh?
Frank Schmehl: MultiWeigh pursues a Growth strategy, and we will endeavour to serve markets in which we currently have little or no presence. Specific machines customised to the needs of these markets will also be developed for this purpose. Territorial and target group-orientated diversification are the theme.
pj: What do you see as the most important tasks and trends in the industry?
Frank Schmehl: German mechanical engineering companies must face up to globalisation and maintain and expand their market position as technology leaders. Here the topics Performance and reliability in the foreground. Automated Industry 4.0-supported service systems will further reduce operating costs.
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