Sustainability

Social

A better life through equal opportunities, a reliable employer and a valuable part of society

We take action - Social Sustainability

As a family-owned company, social sustainability aspects have been integrated into various areas ofthe company at W&H for decades. W&H has been established at its headquarters in Lengerich since it was founded over 150 years ago and is now one of the largest employers in the region. With the W&H Academy, W&H founded a subsidiary in 2018 that specializes in educational topics. In addition to training courses for customers, the focus is on apprenticeships for young recruits and further training for employees.Due to demographic change and the shortage of skilled workers, employee recruitment is becoming increasingly important for W&H. Social commitment in and around Lengerich is realized through donations and sponsoring as well as through company-affiliated foundations.

Equal opportunities

Fair treatment of all employees regardless of age, gender, origin or other personal characteristics is the basis for equal opportunities.Since 2012, W&H KG has conducted employee surveys by the Great Place to Work organization.

What we achieved so far:

Above average results in Employee survey in the category fairness.

What we did 2022/2023:

Repeated evaluation of Fairness Categories in Great-Place-to-Work with above average results
Support of equal opportunities through yearly career guidance events and more vocational training offers
Strenghtened equal opportunities through extensive further training offers

Good employer

As a growing and attractive employer, W&H meets the need for employment that’s meaningful and fairly compensated.

As a family-owned company, it’s always been important to W&H to create a strong sense of identity with the company among its employees. Accordingly, the topic of “employees” is one of the five fields of action in the EXCELLENCE 2025 strategy.

What we already achieved:

Average employee tenure of 16 years (national average is 11 years)
77% agreement with the statement “All in all, I can say this is a very good place to work.” in Employee Survey

What we did in 2022/2023:

Further roll out of Leadership Program started 2021
Additional Employee Benefits established
Paid inflation adjustment premium
Established Mobile working and desk sharing

Community Engagement

We consider ourselves part of society and we actively promote social life, voluntary work and education and qualifications outside our company.

For many years, W&H has supported projects in Lengerich and the region with a five-digit sum each year. This includes support for projects in the areas of social welfare, education, culture and sports.In education and sports, the focus is on supporting children and young people. All activities are deliberately focused on Lengerich and the immediate region, i.e. the employees’ catchment area. A donations committee decides on incoming requests. In addition, donations and sponsorships tied to specific events are approved and financed via special budgets.

What we achieved already:

Two foundations related to the company:
- Adelheid Windmöller Stiftung
- Foundation for Education, Art and Culture
Multiple regular donations and sponsorships

What we have done 2022/2023:

Continued support for DigitalLab Lengerich with specific offers for schools and the target group of pupils
Naming sponsorship for the SC Preußen Lengerich stadium near our headquarters
Multiple donations and sponsorships for local good causes