The company specializes in addressing technical, economic, and environmental challenges, leveraging innovation and deep industry expertise to optimize processes and strengthen its clients' competitive edge.
In early 2024, KW embarked on a new era by initiating a generational leadership transition. This milestone not only marks a significant step in the company’s evolution but also offers an opportunity to reflect with founders Dr. Hans-Peter Krapohl and Wolfgang Wirth on KW’s journey and its future direction.
- Herr Dr. Krapohl und Herr Wirth, wie hat sich KW seit seiner Gründung entwickelt, und wo steht das Unternehmen heute?
Als wir, die Namensgeber von KW, das Unternehmen gründeten, sah sich die Gießereibranche mit einer rückläufigen Nachfrage und einem erheblichen Kostendruck konfrontiert. Unser Schwerpunkt lag auf der Schaffung eines echten Mehrwerts durch innovative und flexible Ansätze. Im Laufe der Jahre haben wir uns durch technologische Kompetenz, tiefe Branchenkenntnis und gezielte Investitionen in moderne Werkzeuge und Methoden zu einem international anerkannten Beratungsunternehmen entwickelt. Heute führen wir erfolgreich globale Projekte zur Förderung von Effizienz und Nachhaltigkeit durch, die bei der Planung neuer Gießereianlagen eine wichtige Rolle spielen.
- What sets KW apart, and what strategies have driven your success?
Our strength lies in combining technical excellence, customized solutions, and close collaboration with our clients. We emphasize sustainability and digital transformation to craft future-proof strategies. Key success factors include our profound industry knowledge, our ability to implement innovative technologies in practice, and our relentless commitment to quality. We know how to get things done, leveraging a deep understanding of processes.
- Which projects stand out in your memory?
One notable example was the modernization of an international foundry site, where we achieved significant energy savings and production increases by employing data-driven analytics and AI tools. Our approach, utilizing flexible production concepts, enabled the client to adapt seamlessly to fluctuating supply chain conditions without sacrificing productivity. These projects highlight how innovative approaches can generate both technical and economic advantages.
A Dynamic Consulting Approach
- How does KW address current challenges in the industry?
The foundry industry is undergoing profound changes, from digitalization and sustainability requirements to geopolitical uncertainties. Our response is a dynamic consulting approach that combines agility with long-term strategies. We assist our clients in implementing technological innovations such as predictive maintenance, energy-efficient and resource-optimized processes, and CO₂ reduction initiatives.
- How do you see the future of the foundry industry in Germany and Europe?
The foundry industry will remain highly relevant, particularly in automotive, energy, and machinery sectors. Germany and Europe maintain a competitive edge through quality leadership and innovation. At the same time, new markets are emerging in regions with growing industrial demand. Sustainability, digitalization, and circular economy will be key themes shaping the industry.
This calls for innovative, flexible, and adaptable entrepreneurs willing to implement new technologies—qualities that still abound in Europe. That spirit and speed, which we’ve seen predominantly in Asia in recent years, need to be reignited in Europe with determination.
- How is KW currently positioned, and what role will you play in the future?
With the generational change in leadership, KW is optimally positioned for the future. Our 24 employees operate globally, bringing expertise across all process areas. The new leadership team, comprising Jan-Christoph Schwarck, Carsten Engelke, and Andreas Sindel, introduces fresh perspectives and a clear vision. Wolfgang Wirth and I will continue to provide advisory support, leveraging our experience in key projects to drive the company’s strategic development and support our clients with foundry expertise.
Thank you for the insightful conversation. Glückauf!
Interview conducted by Thomas Fritsch, Editor-in-Chief of Foundry-Planet.
