The family-owned company Handtmann, of Biberach, Germany, says it has been committed to developing alternatives in food processing and resource-conserving product concepts for over two decades. This includes hybrid, vegan and vegetarian products.
Handtmann regularly exhibits its machine solutions and food concepts at numerous events and trade fairs. The company explains how it has upcycled its trade fair banners as part of its sustainability strategy; the Handtmann “FROM SHOW TO SHOPPER” project converts the trade fair banners into shopping bags in an upcycling process developed by RECICLAGE, a textiles company specialising in this field.
The manufacturer produces its handmade products at its headquarters in Alzenau. “Our mission is to create unique one-of-a-kind items from recycled materials and to thus ensure a responsible use of resources,” explains Julian Dürr from RECICLAGE.
Dürr adds: “And we give people from refugee backgrounds the opportunity to learn new skilled trades and pursue professions. And by employing people with disabilities to sew the upcycled unique items, we also support them in their efforts to participate in life and society on an equal footing.”
Handtmann explains it has taken this step with the objective of further improving the carbon footprint of its trade fair and advertising activities. Harald Suchanka, CEO at Handtmann F&P, is convinced that “Every Handtmann shopper has its very own and personal story to tell. Every time we pass a shopper on to our employees, we also give them a tiny token of self-identification with their own company on top.”
