SCOPE: How have the demands on tools changed over the past decades and what role do customer-specific requirements play in this?
Metzler: As the framework conditions in the industry have changed, so have the demands on us. We always focus on customer and application-specific requirements and tailor our development - in many cases very specifically - to them. Our approach is therefore clearly solution-oriented and aims to enable our customers to work individually, flexibly and efficiently. The Gedore Mixx & Click modular system is a good example of this: our L-Boxxes are compatible both with our WorkMo tool mobile and with Sortimo vehicle equipment.

Generally speaking, tools and solutions must become ever more intelligent in order to not only keep pace with developments, but in the best case scenario to stay ahead of them. Topics such as intelligent networking, documentation and safety-related requirements are definitely at the top of our agenda. Thinking from the customer's perspective and providing them with all solutions from a single source is extremely important to us. We meet the increasing demand for individualization with a modular approach and a clear focus on relevance.

SCOPE: Is the development of Industry 4.0 also having an impact on your customers' requirements? And what steps are you taking with regard to digitalization in your own company?
Metzler: The first question is: what do these buzzwords actually mean? We have developed our own understanding of them. Digitalization and Industry 4.0 are one of the main pillars at Gedore . On the one hand, we are talking about products. For example, the latest generation of our electronic torque wrench E-torc Q / QR enables simple measurement data collection and storage as well as data transfer via WLAN or USB mini-port. This allows the user to check whether the fastening has been carried out correctly and tightened to the specified torque, regardless of location. What we are proud of: The torque wrench even won the Red Dot Design Award for its innovative design.

On the other hand, we are talking about intelligent and workflow-optimized production processes. But all of this depends on the question of what customers and users will need and want in the future and how they want to procure it. In this respect, the world will change completely within a few years. We see this as a great opportunity, question the status quo and are open to completely new ideas. Tomorrow's markets expect maximum flexibility. We are already gearing Gedore towards this today.

SCOPE: Gedore has been represented and networked worldwide for a long time. Will the company continue to grow? What plans do you have for the future, particularly with regard to the global brand strategy?
Metzler: We think globally, we act locally. All our global plans are characterized by respect for regional differences and sensitivity to people's sensitivities and expectations. For us, this is an expression of attitude. As a result, we grow significantly faster than the markets every year. It's not about growth per se, but about being available for people when and where they need us.

Our vision is that every person who has a need for high-quality, intelligently made tool-based solutions that support their safety will think of Gedore.

Consequently, we are developing Gedore into the brand for tools and tool-based solutions and consistently consolidating our branding. In addition to the strong and globally established Gedore brand for industrial users, we will also be offering a high-quality range for experienced DIY enthusiasts from April 2018 with the Gedore red line. Our goal: smart solutions and a focus on the essentials - that is our way into the future. Join us, we look forward to seeing you! Go with us! With Gedore.