we will succeed together

nmcL VE
The NMC magazine for employees and business partners
N
o
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6
8
–
1
Knightly accolade
for commitment
p. 3
Additions to the family
p. 6
A storm tide
full of consequences
p. 13
2
/
2
0
0
8
we will succeed together
Knightly accolade for commitment
B
Since time immemorial, outstanding
people and deeds have been shown particular
recognition worldwide. In Germany the Cross of the
Order of Merit of the Federal Republic is awarded, in
Russia the Order of Merit for the Fatherland and in Sweden
outstanding scientific and cultural merit is honored with the
North Star medal. In Belgium notable service to society,
culture and science is ennobled by the knightly accolade.
EDITORIAL
Dear Reader,
“Man is the measure of all things” we say, and we are all
only too happy to believe it. Ultimately we are human, and
as such we would willingly be the center of the universe.
Perhaps here lies the root of all evil – do we not all suffer
slightly from megalomania? During our constant striving
for growth and consumption do we not forget fundamental
principles such as “You cannot spend more than you earn”?
A look across the big pond at America confirms this suspicion
– basing everything on appearances has been common
practice for years. Houses and consumption on credit, newly
packaged in non-transparent and highly speculative financial
products, close your eyes and go for it! Common sense
dictates that this cannot continue successfully. Surprised by
the collapse of the house of cards, the world is now fighting
against the economic consequences. They have overrun
borders, markets and trading centers like a storm tide.
People are stunned and worried because of course here also
they take center stage – vulnerable, insecure and often also
despairing. Now it is humanly and urgently necessary for
everyone to close ranks. For we as people can make a big
difference both in good and in bad times.
You will notice that people are also at the center of this
edition of nmc-LIVE. It introduces people, who make a
contribution to NMC every single day, and new employees,
who further strengthen our group. It shows how, with
responsible planning and leadership, successes can be
celebrated, crises overcome and responsibility practiced.
It is a forum for people, who act in partnership at NMC for
and with one another.
“I think, therefore I am” we say. I would like to add, “Only
he who thinks ahead will survive!” People have the obligation
to act effectively and use the challenges of our time as an
opportunity for the future and for innovative approaches.
What do you think about it?
Now it is almost Christmas, the festival of hope and light,
an opportunity to pause and reflect on true values. I wish you
and those dear to you warmth and security, confidence and
trust – in human mutual cooperation and a very successful
future.
Yours,
Hubert Bosten
CEO
Prerequisites for the rise to knighthood were and
are still today particular personal qualities such as decency,
dignity, loyalty, civility, courage, humility, generosity and
constancy. When the royal houses of this world raise one
of their subjects to knighthood, these criteria are always
a crucial factor. In this tradition the Belgian King Albert II
knighted Yves Noël, Chairman and principal shareholder
of NMC, for his many and diverse commitments.
Besides his office at NMC, the recently knighted
Yves Noël is also President of the Liège HEC Management
School, member of the management committee of the Belgian
and Walloon trade association and Vice-President of the King
Baudouin Foundation. This was established on the occasion
of King Baudouin‘s silver jubilee and works on a regional,
federal and international level. Through numerous projects,
it supports people and institutions campaigning for greater
justice, democracy and diversity in society.
Yves Noël is only the second citizen of the
German-speaking region of Belgium to be granted this high
honor, and one of a total of only 200 people considered
as outstanding in Belgium. The patent of nobility will be
officially presented by King Albert II in the coming year. Until
then the freshly knighted Yves Noël must design his own coat
of arms for his family, as this is also a part of his new status.
Yves Noël himself considers NMC‘s values to be confirmed
by his ennoblement and says gladly, “This is also recognition
of what we – and by that I mean all the employees – have
achieved over decades through teamwork.”
4-5
Who is Who?
Dieter Schäfer
D
Dieter Schäfer is a team player. Whether in
the black and white soccer shirt of JSV Ettringen or in a suit
in the office, the qualified mechanical engineer and business
management graduate wants to achieve great things with his
team.
Professionally this means for him always accepting
new challenges. Dieter Schäfer has worked for the company
since 1997 and, as manager of the NMC Ettringen site, is
fully in control of business operations. Not far from Koblenz,
70 employees produce architecture and design products.
For team captain Dieter Schäfer the journey is the reward.
In the long term he would like to build up his team and be
promoted to the next league within the group.
Dieter Schäfer‘s personal team is, in comparison,
already complete. Wife Andrea, ten-year old Christina and Julian,
who is four years younger, keep the amateur soccer player on
the go even during training breaks. When Dieter Schäfer is not
spending his free time with his family and friends or following a
soccer game, one of Dan Brown‘s thrillers is causing him suspense.
> Which book is on your nightstand right now?
Nothing at the moment but usually there is a thriller there.
> What did you last see at the movies?
„Die wilden Kerle 5“. It‘s a children‘s movie about soccer.
I like taking my children to the movies!
> Which sports do you play?
I love soccer but now I only play as a hobby in the JSV
Ettringen old boys team.
> What music do you like listening to?
I like listening to songs from the 80s but also the latest chart
hits. Really I am open to almost all styles of music and was
once even a DJ in my spare time.
> If you had three wishes what would they be?
First I would wish for peace in the world. Then I would like
for no one to go hungry anymore and for everyone to have
enough drinking water. I would wish for good health for my
family and me.
> What would you like to be doing
in ten years time?
Our goal is to expand the Ettringen site over the next
few years. If we continue to be so successful within the
NMC Group, we could employ more than 100 people here.
I am committed to this goal.
> What makes you laugh?
My children and family often make me laugh. I can also find
a good joke or television comedy amusing.
> Who would you like to get to know personally?
Nelson Mandela is a fascinating personality, who I would
really like to meet some day.
> Your hopes for NMC?
I hope that the development of our company continues its
successful progress!
6 - 7
Norway
Sweden
Great Britain
SE
SE
Malaysia
Thomas Olsson (SE)
NMC-Cellfoam AB Team (SE)
Additions to the family
They live in different countries, speak
different languages and all have the same aim
– to make NMC even more successful. And it is becoming
ever more so. The NMC family is continually growing and
the small team in picturesque Yorkshire is just as important to
NMC‘s success as the large team in distant Malaysia. This is
because it is important to establish production and sales sites
near to customers as it optimizes service and ensures that
business partners speak the same language. In this way the
NMC international network is becoming increasingly dense.
N
By sea, land and air
At one time Norway was only known for cozy pullovers and
sturdy ponies. Today the Scandinavian country is above all
an important energy supplier. Norway is the third largest
exporter of oil in the world and Europe‘s most important
source of natural gas. Nature was doubly kind to this region.
In addition to the lucrative raw material deposits, the country
also has spectacular landscapes and endless sections
of coastline. This is also the case for Rygge in Southern
Norway, where the 14 employees of NMC Norge AS live.
If they want to go to the sea, they can choose between the
North Sea in the west and a network of lakes in the east.
NMC Norge AS produces and markets various
foam profiles and components, which are used in packaging,
sport and recreational activities, industry and in the building
trade. As it is well placed for transport, these products can
quickly be delivered to customers. Moss airport is directly
opposite and a railroad runs along the narrow strips of
mainland, as does the expressway, which links the capital
Oslo, which is only one hour away from Gothenburg in
Sweden. Since the NMC sales office moved from Frederikstad
to Rygge, this has been the nerve center from where the
motivated team supplies the people of this great country
with NMC foam products.
Country life with fast access
to the city
We can learn a lot from Sweden. For example, how to
celebrate Midsummer Night properly and how to come
to terms with long winter evenings. However, not only
enchanting children‘s stories come from Sweden, but
also pragmatic suggestions on how family friendly some
everyday establishments can be. Not to mention the different
landscapes, which regularly entice numerous tourists to the
north.
SE
Southwest Sweden is well known to many of them.
Beyond the coast, not far from Gothenburg, near to idyllic
countryside, there are also some small commercial centers.
The NMC Cellfoam AB site in Kinnahult is one of these.
In the midst of a wooded hilly landscape near
to the friendly little town of Boras, 66 employees produce
foam products. Waterproofing for building and industry,
insulation for the appliance industry, mounting parts for the
automotive industry, packaging and products for personal
safety such as kneepads or protectors for helmets are
amongst the portfolio. The people here are spoilt for choice.
They can reach Gothenburg, the second largest city in
Sweden, in around half an hour or, alternatively, depending
on their temperament and the time of year, enjoy the nearby
countryside. They commit their many years of experience
and technical know-how in foam processing to NMC all
year round.
NMC Sverige AB is situated in Getinge, some
distance further to the south. It is now also becoming the new
home of NMC Norden AB. At the moment 57 employees
work here in one plant of an area of more than 15,000 m2.
Once the construction of the finance department is completed
and colleagues from NMC Norden have moved from Halmstad,
a total of 65 people will be employed on the site. They run
the sales organization for the Swedish, Norwegian and
Danish market and manufacture foam sheets and profiles
in the extrusion plant, which are used as parquet flooring
underlay or pallet subdivisions for example. The foam sheets
are primarily used for tunnel insulation.
Residents of Getinge are not far from Gothenburg
either. In only one hour, goods from the largest export port
in Northern Europe and the many industrial concerns can
reach the town. In their free time the employees can visit an
attractive cultural center with a city atmosphere or make the
shorter journey to the coast.
8-9
SE
NMC Copley Team (GB)
Bruce Storr – General Manager - NMC Copley
Additions to the family
PU Profile Team (MAL)
GB
Perseverance to achieve success
Although a certain breed of small dog takes its name – a
more significant economic export of Yorkshire is clearly the
locomotive. Robert Stephenson, son of the important railroad
pioneer George Stephenson, lived in Darlington, in the heart
of Yorkshire, the largest earldom in England. Movies such as
“Robin Hood – Prince of Thieves” were partially shot here
and tourists love to explore the many castles and palaces or
enjoy the beautiful landscape.
One of the smaller market towns around
Darlington is Leyburn, home of the Copley Decor Ltd. NMC
plant. A total of twelve employees serve the professional
market with décor moldings and ceiling centers. The extensive
range of polyurethane and polystyrene decoration products
offered give builders the option of equipping their rooms with
historical features or modern stylistic elements. With their
dedication, Copley employees have made the site into an
important, nationally competitive market player. This success
is perhaps also the result of the staying power of the people
of this county, which is historically proven. Richmond Castle,
just a few kilometers away from Leyburn is known to have
been the last British castle under siege.
Spectacular beaches
and commercial centers
Some call it contrast, others simply diversity. From both
perspectives, Malaysia offers numerous examples. The
capital Kuala Lumpur has both impressive skyscrapers and
historic temples. If you travel north from this thriving center
on the peninsular, you pass jungle areas, palm plantations
and industrial centers.
MAL
Kamunting is one of these. The NMC joint
venture plant, PU Profile, is based here. Diversity also plays
a particular role for the 213 members of staff. They produce
decorative products made of polyurethane for architectural
requirements and accessories for water sports such as oars,
centerboards and surfboards. This extensive product range
requires a variety of skills from the staff in different technical
and operational fields. Mckinley Soon, Manager of PU
Profile, is proud to be able to compete in the Asia region
in this way. “We are pleased that the partnership between
PU Profile and NMC has created added value for both
companies.”
The easiest way to visit the new member of the
NMC family is to book a flight to Penang. The island is an
exotic vacation paradise, but also one of the prime locations
in Southeast Asia when it comes to the manufacture of
computers and electronic appliances. Taking the bridge
between the island and the mainland, Kamunting can be
reached in one hour by car. Simply the typical diversity of
Malaysia.
10 - 11
Working together for the future
Project team „Energy“ (B)
B
Energy prices are constantly rising and
the public debate about climate and environmental
protection continues to grow louder in the face of
ecological disasters. The commitment of each individual
is needed and companies are also increasingly recognizing
the significance of the environment for their corporate culture.
It is essential that we leave the environment intact for future
generations, and of course make cost savings at the same
time. Everyone is agreed on this. But where to start? At this
point good intentions often run out of steam but NMC has
decided to assume its responsibility.
At the end of 2007 a team from the infrastructure,
buying, finance and production departments started an
ambitious project under the direction of Hermann-Josef
Ramjoie. Its first step was to carry out an energy audit
supported by specialists from Malmedy. This involved closely
examining total consumption of electricity, fuel oil and gas,
as well as water and compressed air for the whole plant. The
analysis showed considerable potential for making savings,
which was summarized in a plan of action.
The logical next step was that in March 2008
NMC signed up to a regional chemical sector industry
agreement. A part of this agreement is a three-year plan
of action, which sets out seven concrete measures and five
potential campaigns. The main point is NMC‘s commitment
to reduce, by 2012, CO2 emissions by 15 percent and
specific energy consumption by 7.5 percent, in each case
applied to one cubic meter of foam produced. This is an
ambitious target, which NMC is steadfastly working towards.
The responsibility assumed clearly goes beyond the usual
company targets. “Protecting sustainable resources and
mitigating the greenhouse effect is what is needed now”,
explains Bernd Vorhagen.
In order to achieve the ambitious targets,
all employees must pull together. There are numerous
campaigns on the list, which together promise to have
a significant effect. The first one is heat energy, which
has already been converted into a more environmentally
friendly gas, and ranges from more efficient lighting, to
more economical chargers for forklifts to computers in the
offices. Optimization of working methods and processes
is also a vital part of this. Therefore, a central point is
making employees fundamentally more aware of their own
responsibility for the success of this project. Each individual
must integrate the aspect of saving energy into his everyday
work and critically analyze all activities.
Moreover, in the coming months it will be
decided whether NMC will supplement its energy saving
measures by investing in the use of renewable energies
such as photovoltaic equipment or heat pumps. HermannJosef Ramjoie‘s team will weigh up the effectiveness of the
technical options in an active exchange with colleagues.
NMC is supporting the chemical sector of the
Walloon region by carrying out the energy audit and signing
up to the industry agreement. The chemical sector has taken
up the cause of significantly reducing energy consumption
and CO2 emissions in the next four years. The program also
offers the participating companies considerable tax benefits.
As a reciprocal gesture, NMC has promised to pay back
twice the amount of the benefits granted if it does not reach
the targets set.
A storm tide full of consequences
After many years of buoyant bank
lending to risky mortgage borrowers in the USA,
since the beginning of 2007 payment deficits have
started to pile up there. Once powerful banks, first in
the USA, but a few months later throughout the world, have
fallen into the wake of the bankruptcy wave. Depreciations
worth billions from failed speculation with investment and
mortgage funds have put market prices in a spin and nearly
all renowned banks in stormy waters.
Tossed about by the tides, they are now fighting
against increasing losses and clawbacks from investors.
Mutual mistrust is preventing the banks from lending to each
other with the consequence that companies and consumers
can only obtain credit under difficult conditions.
The international central banks are pumping several billion
into the financial markets, in order to avert the dreaded
storm tide of en masse ruin of the banks with dramatic
consequences for the economy and consumers.
In addition to the directly affected construction
industry, the automotive industry has also felt the effects
of the tidal wave due to a slump in sales. It has reduced
production and driven the waves further into the automotive
supplier industry. Raw material and semi-finished part
suppliers, commerce, handicrafts and services have not been
spared by the storm tide. Since October 2008 work has
been underway to clear up after the flood in the global
economy. Everywhere now it is a matter of rolling up one‘s
sleeves and closing ranks. Trusting in one‘s own strength, but
also in mutual cooperation is the order of the day.
14 - 15
As solid as a rock
in the breakers
Even the highest waves do not shake the
rock in the breakers. We as people learnt this principle
from nature and built dykes as protection against storm tides.
When built correctly, checked regularly and adapted to the
effects of possible changes, they offer that reassuring security
on which people rely. They protect and are of use at the same
time, because they also help to gain new land.
In times like these, in which the global economy
has been overrun by the financial crisis, as if by the flood
of the century, NMC has persistently protected its shores
– to extend the metaphor – for over 60 years now. Even
when the waves come crashing in high, as a solid family
business NMC wants to and will withstand the onslaught.
With a dyke, as with a chain, the weakest spot determines
its durability. The main foundation of NMC is its corporate
philosophy, which is based on trust and the sustainability
of relationships with customers and employees.
Low dependence on individual branches of industry strengthens
its leading market position. The quality of NMC is equally
the priority of the building, furniture, automotive and
packaging divisions. The family business‘s clear focus on
value and customers, the long-term view of management,
a carefully balanced portfolio and consistent striving for
efficiency and improvements are the fundamental parameters
for success of the group of companies. The high equity ratio
is also a guarantee of trading strength in difficult times. This
pronounced independence from industries, countries and
foreign investment prevents the solid structure from being
weakened by economic trends. In conjunction with groupwide controlling, systematic strengthening of the brand
identity and consistent environmental orientation, all these
components ensure efficiency and sustainability of the activity
and, consequently, resilience of the protective wall in stormy
economic times.
During the storm tide caused by the banking
and financial crisis and the economic crisis expected as
a consequence of this, these measures have to prove their
worth. The loss of trust, the prevailing uncertainty, the
dwindling purchasing power and the more difficult credit
conditions are affecting the business of NMC customers.
Accordingly, NMC has also been confronted with a reduced
number of incoming orders. To withstand the pressure of
the breakers, NMC is acting in certain areas with more
flexible and dynamic capacity planning. Temporary work is
being planned or cut back at short notice and shifts adapted
to order capacities. This active strategy enables efficient
management of customer demand and warehouse stocks.
Therefore, NMC is proving itself to be a reliable partner of
its long-standing regular customers and employees even in
stormy times.
Measures such as these are – when applied to
the metaphor of the protective dyke – sand bags, which
stabilize the NMC protective wall. Management and
employees must also act quickly and in solidarity in the
future, so that their dedication leads to the success strived
for. Only in this way can the dyke withstand the pressure
and stay permanently watertight. Flexibility, continual
improvement of processes and high quality services will be
required more than ever in the future. Seen in this light, storm
tides even bring opportunity, because fast, innovative and
solid companies emerge from them stronger.
In order for NMC, its customers, employees and
shareholders to have a secure future, combined energy and
mutual objectives will be needed. The dyke is resistant, and
if everyone lends a hand, it will continue to stand – like
an unshakable rock in the breakers. The NMC guidelines
promote and require this mutual cooperation: together we
are extremely strong – We will succeed together.
16 - 17
Anniversaries 2009
10 years
D
B
B
B
B
Further information on the anniversaries and birthdays of colleagues can be found by NMC-employees in the public file/human resources department.
Viktor Heptin
Ronald Fryns
Eric Pasque
Sandra Baguette
Eric Boniver
B
B
B
B
B
Damien Emonts
Magali Scholl
Benjamin Theves
Pascal Krügel
Philippe Moutschen
B
B
B
B
GB
Rosalie Deweerd
Dany Bergmann
Arno Lux
Oktay Sicim
John Robertson
GB
I
I
I
FIN
Robert Banks
Sandra Gallo
Daniela Picelli
Massimo Ferrario
Eki Heinonen
FIN
SE
SE
SE
SE
Martta Kuosmanen
Karl Johansson
Nazif Hajra
Izet Laci
Milazim Mehaj
B
B
B
Brigitte Drosson
Tien Lang Le
Michel Mosbeux
GB
FIN
Neil Mcintosh
Sune Lindberg
FIN
FIN
SE
Tom Nyholm
Marika Lehtonen
Roger Berggren
SE
F
F
Mikael Olssen
Alain D‘Anglejan
Stéphane Chatoux
SE
SE
Habiba Pivalic
Abesin Zeneli
20 years
D
D
B
Christiane Schambach
Elimar Schlotbohm
Alain Verdenne
Christiane
Schambach
Elimar Schlotbohm
Alain Verdenne
Brigitte Drosson
Tien Lang Le
25 years
D
B
N
Ingrid Roderburg
D
D
B
Marit Olsen
Elke Pinger
35 years
D
B
Margrit Holzweiler
Sune Lindberg
Tom Nyholm
Marika Lehtonen
B
B
B
Elke Pinger
Götz Strahl
Van Thu Le
Roger Berggren
Götz Strahl
Van Thu Le
B
B
Isolde Visé
Isolde Visé
Maurice Aussem
Tom Duppen
Maurice Aussem
F
F
B
B
B
Tom Duppen
Guido Demonthy
Günter Nahl
Guido Demonthy
40 years
Hans-Jürgen Kolling
Margrit Holzweiler
Hans-Jürgen
Kolling
Neil Mcintosh
Mikael Olssen
Alain D´Anglejan
Stéphane Chatoux
30 years
Sieglinde Kissel
Ingrid Roderburg
Marit Olsen
Sieglinde Kissel
Michel Mosbeux
Jean-Claude Madec
Christian Royer
Jean-Claude
Madec
Christian Royer
Günter Nahl
Jeanine Waldeyer
Georges Mannens
Hermann-Joseph Ramjoie
Jeanine Waldeyer
Georges Mannens
FIN
F
Hermann-Joseph
Ramjoie
Berit Rouvari
Sylvie Rossel
Berit Rouvari
18 - 19
Good gets better – part 1
It is widely accepted that “the work
climate is the only climate that you can have an
influence on yourself ”. NMC has now deliberately
set itself this task and has systematically captured the
atmosphere in the company through a full-scale employee
survey. All employees of Eynatten, the largest NMC plant
worldwide, were surveyed – from workers to managers.
The survey included questions on communication within
the company, company policy, the wage structure, working
conditions and colleagueship. Eleven subject areas were
developed in order to more precisely ascertain well-being
in the workplace.
Every five years NMC is obligated by law to
consult its employees as part of a risk analysis. Since in
recent years growth and change have inexorably led
the way at NMC, the company decided to examine the
consequences of this change by means of a full-scale survey,
in order to identify starting points for improvements, if
necessary. Therefore, it seemed natural to combine the
once again pending risk analysis with a general satisfaction
study.
NMC always has the satisfaction of its staff
at heart, since only satisfied employees stay motivated
and loyal to the company. Job security, nice colleagues, a
pleasant working atmosphere, adequate payment, career
prospects and advancement are all indicators of job
satisfaction. “There are always things that we can improve
on” says Roger Kniebs, head of the human resources
department, “and accordingly we want to know where
the shoe pinches most.”
Compared to the benchmark determined by
ZebraZone, the satisfaction of employees at NMC is above
the national average in Belgium and therefore confirms to
the company the general approval of its employees. Workers
and salaried staff view the areas of motivation, job content
and change particularly positively. Slightly below average
was feedback on the subjects of professional career, values,
culture and pay. The survey therefore showed that employees
are satisfied but not fully content.
Consultants from ZebraZone, a qualified partner
in the analysis of employee satisfaction, assisted Roger
Kniebs and his team. ZebraZone, a well-known specialist
in Belgium in the field of employee surveys, developed a
scientifically established analysis method on the Belgium
market together with Ghent University. The whole process
at NMC was accompanied by ZebraZone consultants.
Extensive interaction by the personnel management and
management board on the topics of information, voluntary
participation, transparency, motivation and data protection
took place in advance. Employees were ensured complete
anonymity and confidentiality, which quickly overcame
any initial skepticism. This was possible due to the external
consultants and a cleverly devised analysis system, which
does not allow any information from fewer than ten people
to be analyzed. The very high rate of return of almost 90
percent shows that the employees trust this method and
demonstrates how important to them further successful
development of the company is.
Following analysis of the survey no time was
allowed to pass before results from the different areas
immediately began to be processed. Representative groups
were formed, which worked out approaches and concrete
actions within a total of eleven workshops. Here it became
clear that it is a matter of the standardized construction of
clear communication structures – it is particularly essential
that management is more strongly involved in the information
process, changes are proactively communicated within the
teams and queries and lively exchanges are encouraged.
Each employee‘s opinion is tangibly sought, since discussion
arises from active queries and intensive feedback from the
individual. Demands are also made on NMC employees
with regard to colleagueship, “Everyone must consistently
set an example of what he expects from others” emphasizes
Roger Kniebs. Great importance has always been attached
to communication and team spirit at NMC, as well as to
quality, efficiency and productivity – now it is necessary to
purposefully propagate these values throughout the group
and bring to life the principle of “We will succeed together”.
To give the team‘s already good motivation new impetus,
improvements are also being made in the talent management
and career planning areas. The main priority is now to
develop strategies that do justice to employees‘ suggestions.
“The surveys will in any case be repeated and
gradually continued in other branches”, states Roger Kniebs,
“Only in this way can we ensure that we are always on the
right track.” A plan is in place to repeat parts of the study on
an approximately two-year cycle. The time in between will be
needed to process and implement the survey results.
At the moment the work climate of NMC branches
in England, France and Finland is being captured. The next
edition of nmc-LIVE will describe in detail the measures that
have been taken as a reaction to the employee survey. nmcLIVE 10 then introduces the improvement strategies for the
area of trade and production at NMC Eynatten.
20 - 21
Modern home décor with Confucius
ROK
They have set a tremendously fast pace.
In only 50 years the South Koreans have turned their nation
from one of the poorest countries on earth into a global
economic player. Although it successfully supplies the whole
world with high-tech products, amongst others, it is also a
demanding customer. Therefore, builders in Dongil Highvill
Lake City were looking for a partner, which could deliver the
best quality and stylish design and which at the same time
promised to keep to the tight schedule. NMC set itself the
task and fitted out the 1,000 apartments of the enormous
new building project with decorative moldings.
Dongil Highvill Co. is one of the largest South
Korean building companies with its head office in Seoul.
When the company‘s architects planned a high quality
residential estate in Daegu, they combined functionality with
comfort. As in many of the country‘s fast growing towns,
building ground in Daegu in southeast Korea, which has
two million inhabitants, is expensive. Therefore, 15-storey
residential blocks were built near the river for selected
customers. The occupants are housed in a multiple unit
apartment complex surrounded by a grand and spacious
park. The apartment fittings ensure individuality and comfort.
This starts with the living space of 100 m2 or more, which
itself is a luxury in this lively metropolis, and extends to the
stylish design of the rooms. Three different designs of NMC
ornamental profiles provide a particular European charm.
The South Koreans have succeeded, through
the economic and social development of the last decade, in
combining tradition and modernity. In accordance with the
country‘s traditional Confucian roots, education is of high
importance. Grade school children are already learning
English and many of the numerous college leavers have
completed a part of their education in Europe or America.
For them, stylistic elements from these countries are not
fashionable living accessories, but rather natural synergies.
The large order from Asia also triggered a series
of synergic effects at NMC. Philippe François, Overseas
Sales Manager at NMC, summarizes the significance of the
supply of 120,000 meters of Arstyl profiles for him and his
team, “Here our company slogan ‘We will succeed together’
once more took on particular meaning. Good organization
and the cooperation of all the departments, such as A&D
Planning, PU Production and of course our warehouse and
shipping departments, made it possible to keep to the tight
schedule.”
Taking part is everything
CN
An estimated television audience of four
billion followed the largest sports event in the
world with fascination throughout the summer.
The Olympics were hosted by China‘s Beijing metropolis
where 204 nations lined up to compete against each other
in 28 sports and a total of 302 competitions. With 11,128
competitors, the first record of the Olympic Games was set
even before the opening ceremony – much to the joy of the
host. China had set itself high standards and wanted to excel
as a host. The athletes were to find perfect conditions, as the
sporting achievements of the 2008 games were to put all
previous performances in the shade.
When top athletes compete everything must
simply be just right – that applies to both the conditions and
the technical equipment. A good example is the flooring on
which the gymnasts demonstrate their skills. It always looks
extremely easy; the athletes catapult their bodies seemingly
effortlessly over the square surface during the floor program.
Salti, flickflacks and gymnastic elements follow one another
and seem to completely defy gravity. These few seconds of
competition on the mat are make-or-break. The right surface
for these acrobatics plays a part in the athlete‘s success that
is not to be underestimated. The material must absorb jumps
or reduce hard contact with the earth without permanently
distorting. This is the same for all competitors – no matter
how many stages the competition has. The material that
combines these properties is called NOMALENTM. It is a crosslinked polyethylene foam with a closed cell structure, which
not only offers featherweight gymnasts the right surface but
can also be made into Running Mats, which apparatus
gymnasts use as a run-up.
NOMALENTM, which is produced by Termonova
OY in Finland, is a regular and welcome guest at many mass
sports events worldwide – always faithful to the Olympic
motto “Taking part is everything!”
24 - 25
Danielle Braem (B)
Expertise
and tactfulness
Internal sales team (F)
Andrey Salatinsky (RUS)
They can‘t teleport goods and clairvoyance
is not in their repertoire. However, the NMC office staff
does make (almost) everything possible.
A fresh supply of messages has arrived overnight.
When Danielle Braem, an office employee at Eynatten, starts
up the computer in the morning, the electronic mailbox is
already brimming. There‘s not much time to acclimatize.
With a steaming cup of coffee by her side, she goes through
the emails. She quickly issues the first delivery notes, so
that shipping can be planned and her colleagues from the
warehouse can put the deliveries together. The telephone is
also ringing already. Customers who call at such an early
hour usually have urgent requests. The goods were needed
yesterday, so the order needs to be sent off immediately.
Danielle Braem stays calm and makes sure that the
consignment is loaded onto the truck the same day. That
usually reduces the caller‘s adrenalin level.
Now comes the first missing goods report. The
goods have not reached their destination, or are incomplete.
The office starts the search: hunting out the order and delivery
note number, checking everything and asking the shipping
department for support. If the search is unsuccessful, a repeat
order goes out immediately. However, quite frequently a
satisfied customer calls up a few hours later having found the
missing boxes.
The next caller has another problem. He needs
labels with special product details. Danielle Braem deals
with this immediately, amends the delivery note and brings
the documents to the shipping department. She can also help
with other customer inquiries. Like her, all office employees
speak foreign languages and know their way around the
whole product range. They give information on prices,
determine availability and advise on packaging. Their job
also involves drawing up quotes and presentations.
All orders are entered into the central order
processing system, by means of which the departments
involved are informed. Now and then office staff discusses
Astrid Helmling (D)
with colleagues from the shipping department how the
customer can be offered the quickest and most efficient
service.
Once these matters have been dealt with, the
coffee has certainly gone cold. All 65 colleagues who work
in the NMC offices handle this kind of stress daily. Their
jobs are distributed over a total of 21 teams in Europe,
Russia and North America. The Belgian site has the largest
departments – both in the areas of Architecture & Design/
Do It Yourself/Nomawood as well as Nomafoam/Insulation.
Irrespective of where and how large the department is, the
office staff is the interface between customers, planning,
shipping and the warehouse. Danielle Braem cannot imagine
a more stimulating job. She really enjoys having contact with
different people from many different countries – and making
despairing callers into satisfied customers.
Many miles in the name of solidarity
1st and 3rd f.l.t.r.: Arno Lux, Erwin Palm
B
Erwin Palm and Arno Lux have walked
many miles for a good cause. The two NMC Eynatten
employees took part in the first Oxfam Trailwalk in Belgium,
during which the four-strong team covered a distance of
100 kilometers in less than 30 hours. In the run up to this
athletic challenge they not only had to train intensively, but
also collect a minimum 1,500 euro donation for “Oxfam
Solidarity”. The money is used to support sustainable projects
tackling poverty, injustice and exclusion in different regions
of the world in order to give the people there a new chance
for a better life.
Erwin Palm was spontaneously inspired by this
idea. However, when he wanted to enroll for the Oxfam
Trailwalk in March, all the places had already been filled.
The limit of 150 teams was reached even before the closing
date. Fortunately luck was on his side and in May a place
became free and Erwin Palm acted at once. Together with
Arno Lux and two other acquaintances they formed the
“Vennfalken” team and began training. The driving force
was the knowledge that this commitment would help people
living in poverty in Africa, Asia, Latin America and the Near
East to improve their future.
“We started with 30 kilometer walks. By the end
it was 65 kilometers, which lasted around twelve hours”,
recalls Erwin Palm. Whilst the Vennfalken team got used to
blisters, friends and family formed the support team. They
approached potential sponsors – including NMC – and
provided active assistance on the big day with drinks, food
and seats during breaks.
On the last weekend of August the starting gun
was fired in Eupen at seven o‘clock in the morning and
the long walk began. In very summery temperatures the
walkers headed towards the checkpoints, where there were
refreshments and the data were scanned in. In the afternoon
they reached the highest point of their circuit at the Botrange
nature center. The next section through the moor landscape
of the High Fens proved to be slippery and difficult.
However, a few enthusiastic people on the roadside spurred
on the valiant walkers at the 60 kilometer mark. As it got
dark, the participating teams were already widely spaced
out from each other and many walkers were exhausted.
However, the Vennfalken team braved the darkness, ignored
their aching muscles and summoned their last energy
reserves.
After 21.5 hours and 100 kilometers covered,
they finally reached the end in 20th place out of 156 teams.
“Our goal and the greatest challenge was to arrive together
as a team and within an acceptable time” emphasizes Erwin
Palm. This was not an unjustified concern, since more than
50 teams did not achieve the goal. Encouraged by the
success of the Vennfalken team, next year NMC will be on
the starting line with its own team.
Central theme of the next nmc-LIVE: Communication
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Impressum nmc-LIVE: Editor: NMC sa, 4731 Eynatten,
Belgium · Responsible editor: Hubert Bosten (Responsible
in the sense of the press law) · Editorial team: NMC sa,
Gert-Noël-Straße, B-4731 Eynatten, Tel: +32 87 85 85-00,
Fax: +32 87 85 85-11, redaktion@nmc.eu · Production:
impetus.PR, Agentur für Corporate Communications GmbH,
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Print: Grenz-Echo, Eupen · Published: twice a year ·
Circulation: 2.850
we will succeed together