A note from Frank Sander

Welcome to the Carpenter European newsletter.

Our goal with this communication is to help all employees stay informed about what is taking place within Carpenter. Every issue of the newsletter will provide a more complete understanding of who we are and what we do. We will also recognize the dedicated workforce that sets Carpenter apart.

While we are a global company with an important role in many public industries, there are many internal stories that should be shared. I hope that participating in the newsletter experience will help you find new reasons to be proud of your Carpenter career.

Thank you for doing your part to help our company succeed. 

– Frank Sander, Managing Director – Europe

Interzum 2023

From 9-12 May, Carpenter associates from across Europe and North America gathered for Interzum in Cologne, Germany, for the first time in four years. Carpenter was one of approximately 1,600 exhibitors who participated in the leading global trade fair for the furniture and interior construction industries’ supplying sections.

“The fair was well-visited, and the feedback from customers, vendors and partners was very positive,” said Kurt Derieuw, Carpenter Europe’s Sales Director who is based in Belgium. “It was great to enjoy the positive atmosphere and interest from both existing and potential new customers.”

An exciting aspect of Interzum 2023 was this being the first year that Carpenter’s stand was designed in-house. The inspiration came from the company’s Las Vegas showroom to align branding across our European and American businesses.

The design also did a fantastic job of highlighting Carpenter’s commitment to sustainability, which was the theme of Interzum this year.

For example, the green walls introducing new foams made with recycled polyols, an alternative that could lead to a more sustainable future for the PU world, were very popular. Mattresses shown with the philosophy of more sustainable bedding with “greener” foams and alternative ideas to enhance comfort, including the use of recycled covers and RFID for a closed loop into recycling, also received a lot of attention.

New digital solutions with leaflets, certificates and a 3-D tour were prominent in Carpenter’s stand. This component pared well with Interzum’s new online program that was extended this year for people who could not attend in person.

Overall, the months of preparation for Interzum involved a global team effort, and the hard work paid off. The event provided a great opportunity to meet customers face-to-face and nurture relationships that have been neglected due to the circumstances of recent years.

“Safety Above All”

By looking out for one another, we can make sure everyone goes home safely each day. Follow these tips to keep yourself and others safe at work:

• Check all equipment is in good condition and safety devices are working correctly before use. Report all defects immediately.
• Always wear appropriate PPE for the job you are doing.
• If you see an unsafe situation, say something immediately.
• Constantly assess your surroundings to be aware of potential hazards and risks to yourself or others.

Employee recognition

Congratulations to all employees who are celebrating significant milestones in their Carpenter careers this quarter. We thank you for your dedication.

35 years: Patricia Mary Reilly, United Kingdom; Mats Andersson, Sweden; Philippe Boumier, France. 30 years: Pascal Le Saux, France; Krista Noyez, Belgium. 25 years: Maik Bock, Germany. 20 years: Jérôme Hulin, France; Flemming Moisen, Denmark; Kenneth Gryson, Belgium. 15 years: Christopher Anthony McGrath, United Kingdom; Michael George Dewhurst, United Kingdom; John Hartley, United Kingdom; Lalaine Andersson, Sweden; Jérôme Plaudin, France; Mohammad Shuib Rahimi, Denmark; Stig Kruse Lund, Denmark; Annette Thomsen, Denmark. 10 years: Neil Mortin, United Kingdom; Yoan Perignon, France; Salvador Bautista, France. 5 years: Kathryn Anne Barlow, United Kingdom; Essam Ibrahim, Sweden; Samuel Abraham, Sweden; Magdana Chargazia, Sweden; Jörg Schuchardt, Germany; Steven Schargitz, Germany; Sascha Ludolph, Germany; Norbert Bieluch, Germany; Katrin Baade, Germany; Peter Therkildsen, Denmark; Lone Dunai, Denmark; Francky Haspeslagh, Belgium.

Let us know what you think!

What would you like to read about in future newsletters? Do you have an idea for a great story? Contact your HR manager or send an email to newsletter@carpenter.com to share ideas.