"The last few years have not made it easy for us and have challenged all Pilzlers worldwide every day. The result for 2021 is confirmation that our efforts are worthwhile. We have stayed on course together. My brother and I are very grateful for this," explains Susanne Kunschert, Managing Partner. "Pilz is not only crisis-tested, but has also emerged stronger from this time. We owe this to the tirelessness, flexibility and, above all, innovative strength of our employees."

More employees planned for 2022

The number of employees worldwide fell by 1.3% to 2,335 (as at December 31, 2021) compared to 2,366 in the previous year. The number of employees in Germany also fell only slightly: From 1,012 in 2020 to 993 in 2021 (-1.9%). Layoffs due to the global economic crisis were avoided. The family business is aiming to hire additional employees again in 2022. Pilz is continuing its in-house training program: 14 trainees started at the headquarters in 2021, including six students from the Baden-Württemberg Cooperative State University.

Pilz continues to carry out extensive and intensive research and development activities. At the end of the year, almost 21 percent of the total workforce worldwide was employed in this area. In terms of content, Pilz focuses its development activities on the topic of security: "As a manufacturer of safe automation solutions, we focus equally on safety and industrial security aspects," explains Thomas Pilz, Managing Partner. The company has therefore supplemented its already secure development processes: TÜV Süd has certified Pilz's product development in accordance with the industrial security standard IEC 62443-4-1.

Railroad growth potential

Pilz sees further growth potential in railroad technology. To this end, the company has set up its own "Railway" business unit. It bundles Pilz's global activities in order to strategically develop the portfolio for the railroad industry with its specific requirements. The unit will be headed by Sebastian Lüke.

Pilz expects 2022 to be another challenging year. Although incoming orders are still at a record level, the procurement of electronic components, metals and plastic granulates remains difficult. In addition, further cost increases in raw materials and material expenses are expected against the backdrop of the war in Ukraine.

Susanne Kunschert explains: "We remain in crisis mode. The Pilz team continues to work closely together worldwide and we want to continue working for each other and together for our customers. The relationships with our customers and business partners give us additional strength. We are looking to the future with confidence."