JBL’s Open House Party

Business partners and associates from 21 different countries made the trip to JBL’s headquarters in Neuhofen. The longest journey was that of a visitor from New Zealand. Marketing manager Heiko Blessin was extremely satisfied with the response: “Great atmosphere and nice people. Lots of feedback from visitors suggesting that they were more than satisfied.” 50 years of JBL: “I’m rather shocked to realise that we are already so old. After all, we see ourselves as a young, dynamic company that aims to be a little different to other companies,” said managing director Roland Böhme in his presentation. He focused on the key stages in the eventful history of the company and commented: “Past development shows just what we can achieve when we concentrate on our strengths.” Ro-land Böhme stressed that he took this as his motto for the future too. “We are living our products,” said the JBL managing director, referring to what he believed to be an important success factor. The team was highly motivated and creative. As a family firm, JBL did not plan from one quarter to the next like a limited company, but on a long-term basis. The company also set great store by its independence, which is why no one client accounted for more than 10 per cent of overall sales. Three varied days JBL confirmed during its three-day Open House Party that there was no need to fear for the future of the company. The mood of the guests was excellent, bolstered by a very varied programme of events including talks by industry experts, tours of the production areas and warehouses, workshops and also information stands hosted by JBL and a number of associated companies. The party had plenty to offer in the culinary department too – guests were treated to delicious Palatinate specialities. Various bands provided a musical backdrop to the events. The highlight of the first day was the final of the World Aquarium Design Contest. Visitors were able to watch as the ten finalists – five in the hobby class and five in the professional category – created their aquariums. The two finalists from France ultimately prevailed over the competition from Spain, Russia, Great Britain and Germany. Kenny Payet won in the hobby class, while victory in the professional class went to Sylvain von Waerbeke. At the end of the Open House Party, the aquariums that had been created were auctioned off to the guests, raising € 2 000. The money raised is to be donated to the relief fund for those affected by the floods in…