Navigating the Future: DEKRA and UPM Raflatac Lead the Charge in Sustainability and Innovation
December 5, 2024, 12:50 am
In a world where uncertainty looms large, two companies stand out as beacons of resilience and innovation: DEKRA and UPM Raflatac. Both organizations are not just weathering the storm of economic and environmental challenges; they are charting a course toward a sustainable future. Their recent achievements highlight a commitment to growth, sustainability, and the circular economy, setting a standard for others to follow.
DEKRA, a giant in the testing, inspection, and certification (TIC) sector, is entering its centenary year with a robust performance. In 2023, the company surpassed €4 billion in sales for the first time. This milestone is not just a number; it symbolizes DEKRA's adaptability in a turbulent market. Despite facing a recession in Germany and a skilled labor shortage across Europe, DEKRA's core business grew by over 7%. This growth is a testament to the company's strategic focus on future-oriented sectors like electromobility, sustainability, and cybersecurity.
The company’s CEO, Stan Zurkiewicz, expresses optimism for continued growth in 2024, projecting a mid-single-digit increase in sales. This confidence is rooted in DEKRA's strong market position and its commitment to innovation. The company is investing heavily in new technologies and services, including a state-of-the-art battery testing laboratory in Germany. This facility will not only create jobs but also enhance DEKRA's capabilities in testing electric vehicle batteries, a critical component of the green transition.
Similarly, UPM Raflatac is making significant strides in the realm of sustainability. As a leader in label materials, the company is committed to the Ellen MacArthur Foundation’s New Plastics Economy Global Commitment. This initiative aims to tackle plastic waste and promote a circular economy. UPM Raflatac has made notable progress, reducing its emission intensity by 36% since 2015 and achieving landfill-free status in several factories.
The introduction of PureCycle paper label materials marks a significant innovation in UPM Raflatac's product line. These labels are designed for recyclability, ensuring they can be efficiently processed in existing recycling systems. This focus on circularity is not just a trend; it’s a necessity in today’s environmental landscape. The Ocean Action label, made from ocean-bound plastic, further exemplifies UPM Raflatac's commitment to sustainability. This product won the Sustainability Award at the Label Industry Global Awards, showcasing the company's leadership in eco-friendly solutions.
Both DEKRA and UPM Raflatac are not just responding to market demands; they are shaping the future. DEKRA's expansion into AI and cybersecurity services reflects a keen understanding of emerging technologies. The company is already testing AI systems to ensure they are safe and reliable. This proactive approach positions DEKRA as a leader in quality management and risk assessment in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.
On the other hand, UPM Raflatac's RafCycle program is a prime example of how companies can innovate while addressing environmental challenges. By partnering with Soprema to recycle label release liner waste, UPM Raflatac is transforming waste into valuable materials for construction. This initiative not only reduces waste but also contributes to a more sustainable building industry.
The commitment to sustainability is further reinforced by DEKRA's advocacy for balanced regulations. The company recognizes the need for high standards that protect health and safety while also fostering innovation. The proliferation of regulations can stifle smaller businesses, and DEKRA is working to ensure that regulations serve their intended purpose without becoming burdensome.
As both companies look to the future, their strategies highlight the importance of adaptability and foresight. DEKRA's investments in battery testing and cybersecurity are paving the way for a safer, more sustainable future. Meanwhile, UPM Raflatac's focus on circularity and sustainable materials is setting a benchmark for the packaging industry.
In conclusion, DEKRA and UPM Raflatac are not just surviving; they are thriving in a complex landscape. Their commitment to innovation, sustainability, and responsible business practices is a blueprint for success in the 21st century. As they navigate the challenges ahead, these companies are proving that with the right vision and determination, a sustainable future is not just possible—it is within reach. Their journeys serve as inspiration for others to follow suit, reminding us that in the face of adversity, resilience and innovation can light the way forward.
DEKRA, a giant in the testing, inspection, and certification (TIC) sector, is entering its centenary year with a robust performance. In 2023, the company surpassed €4 billion in sales for the first time. This milestone is not just a number; it symbolizes DEKRA's adaptability in a turbulent market. Despite facing a recession in Germany and a skilled labor shortage across Europe, DEKRA's core business grew by over 7%. This growth is a testament to the company's strategic focus on future-oriented sectors like electromobility, sustainability, and cybersecurity.
The company’s CEO, Stan Zurkiewicz, expresses optimism for continued growth in 2024, projecting a mid-single-digit increase in sales. This confidence is rooted in DEKRA's strong market position and its commitment to innovation. The company is investing heavily in new technologies and services, including a state-of-the-art battery testing laboratory in Germany. This facility will not only create jobs but also enhance DEKRA's capabilities in testing electric vehicle batteries, a critical component of the green transition.
Similarly, UPM Raflatac is making significant strides in the realm of sustainability. As a leader in label materials, the company is committed to the Ellen MacArthur Foundation’s New Plastics Economy Global Commitment. This initiative aims to tackle plastic waste and promote a circular economy. UPM Raflatac has made notable progress, reducing its emission intensity by 36% since 2015 and achieving landfill-free status in several factories.
The introduction of PureCycle paper label materials marks a significant innovation in UPM Raflatac's product line. These labels are designed for recyclability, ensuring they can be efficiently processed in existing recycling systems. This focus on circularity is not just a trend; it’s a necessity in today’s environmental landscape. The Ocean Action label, made from ocean-bound plastic, further exemplifies UPM Raflatac's commitment to sustainability. This product won the Sustainability Award at the Label Industry Global Awards, showcasing the company's leadership in eco-friendly solutions.
Both DEKRA and UPM Raflatac are not just responding to market demands; they are shaping the future. DEKRA's expansion into AI and cybersecurity services reflects a keen understanding of emerging technologies. The company is already testing AI systems to ensure they are safe and reliable. This proactive approach positions DEKRA as a leader in quality management and risk assessment in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.
On the other hand, UPM Raflatac's RafCycle program is a prime example of how companies can innovate while addressing environmental challenges. By partnering with Soprema to recycle label release liner waste, UPM Raflatac is transforming waste into valuable materials for construction. This initiative not only reduces waste but also contributes to a more sustainable building industry.
The commitment to sustainability is further reinforced by DEKRA's advocacy for balanced regulations. The company recognizes the need for high standards that protect health and safety while also fostering innovation. The proliferation of regulations can stifle smaller businesses, and DEKRA is working to ensure that regulations serve their intended purpose without becoming burdensome.
As both companies look to the future, their strategies highlight the importance of adaptability and foresight. DEKRA's investments in battery testing and cybersecurity are paving the way for a safer, more sustainable future. Meanwhile, UPM Raflatac's focus on circularity and sustainable materials is setting a benchmark for the packaging industry.
In conclusion, DEKRA and UPM Raflatac are not just surviving; they are thriving in a complex landscape. Their commitment to innovation, sustainability, and responsible business practices is a blueprint for success in the 21st century. As they navigate the challenges ahead, these companies are proving that with the right vision and determination, a sustainable future is not just possible—it is within reach. Their journeys serve as inspiration for others to follow suit, reminding us that in the face of adversity, resilience and innovation can light the way forward.