Brand of the Century 2024 - A milestone for tradition, innovation and sustainability
The award: MAWA as ‘Brand of the Century 2024’
On 28 November 2024, MAWA was honoured as ‘Brand of the Century’ at an award ceremony in Berlin. This prestigious award recognises outstanding German brands that impress with their consistency, innovation and sustainability. The management, represented by Michaela and Sebastian Schenk, accepted the award in a moving ceremony.
‘We are proud to receive this award together. It confirms our path of combining tradition with innovation and sustainability,’ explained Michaela Schenk.
With this honour, MAWA joins a league of iconic brands such as Faber-Castell and Melitta and underlines its status as the global market leader in the clothes hanger sector.
75 years of MAWA - a success story ‘Made in Germany’
MAWA can look back on an impressive history. Since it was founded by Martin Wagner in 1948, the company has stood for high-quality, functional and sustainable clothes hangers. Whether the pioneering trouser hanger or the patented anti-slip coating - MAWA has shaped the industry with innovative products. Today, the company exports over 80 per cent of its products to 86 countries and remains true to the guiding principle of ‘Made in Germany’.
Sustainability as a guiding principle: from tradition to innovation
Sustainability is no longer an option, but an obligation. MAWA has taken the lead in the industry with innovative concepts such as the MAWA Eco Collection made from natural fibres and renewable raw materials. These environmentally friendly products stand for quality, durability and a smaller ecological footprint.
Through consistent investment in research and development, MAWA is pursuing the goal of CO2-neutral production. From the optimisation of production processes and energy-efficient technologies to the use of FSC-certified wood - MAWA is setting new standards for sustainable solutions.
Generational change and a vision for the future: a new era for MAWA
The year 2023 marked another turning point in the company's history: the generational change in management. Michaela Schenk, who has successfully managed the company since 2007, is now supported by her son Sebastian Schenk. Together, they are leading the traditional company into the future.
‘I am happy that my son and I can continue to develop this company together. Our different perspectives complement each other perfectly and we share a passion for positioning MAWA as a sustainable and innovative brand,’ emphasised Michaela Schenk.
MAWA and the ‘Brand of the Century’: A recognition with a signalling effect
The ‘Brand of the Century’ award is more than just a prize - it is a symbol of entrepreneurial vision, sustainable values and the courage to embrace change. MAWA is proud to receive this recognition and sees it as an incentive to continue developing innovative and sustainable solutions in the future.
The project of the ZEIT publishing group, which makes this honour possible, not only includes recognition in the high-quality book ‘Brands of the Century’, but also digital formats such as podcasts, brand films and social media campaigns.
Shaping the future together
MAWA sees itself not only as a manufacturer of high-quality clothes hangers, but also as a partner that works together with its customers and suppliers to create a sustainable future. With innovation, tradition and a clear vision, MAWA sets standards in the industry.
‘Our products are the result of decades of expertise coupled with a relentless pursuit of improvement. Together with our partners, we want to make the world a little more sustainable - from production to the finished product, says Sebastian Schenk.
Why MAWA counts as the brand of the century 2024
- Tradition meets innovation: over 75 years of experience paired with state-of-the-art technology.
- Focus on sustainability: environmentally friendly materials and CO2-neutral production.
- Global success: Products in 86 countries on four continents.
- Strong vision: A family business with a clear strategy for the future.
An award with responsibility
The ‘Brand of the Century’ award shows: MAWA not only stands for excellent products, but also for sustainable action and corporate responsibility. With this honour and a strong team at the helm, the company can look to the future with optimism.
