Before joining Schenker Stores France, he held key positions within the general management of companies operating in different market sectors. His experience has allowed him to develop an in-depth understanding of the challenges and opportunities specific to each area of activity.
The ambition for strong growth
In order to support the strong growth ambition of Schenker Stores France, Christian Ostermann, as new Site Director, will be faced with the major challenge of industrializing production to absorb this growth.
Currently, 200 people on site are dedicated to manufacturing 400 blinds per day (awnings, vertical blinds and roof blinds), generating nearly 70.000 pieces per year. To cope with a higher production rate and meet growing demand, Christian Ostermann – accompanied by the Manufacturing Manager, Gilles Grinner, will have to put in place appropriate tools and strategies.
For Christian Ostermann: « We will have to structure production in such a way as to bring about a change of scale. This will involve assessing and reviewing existing processes, identifying potential bottlenecks and introducing improvements to increase efficiency and productivity. »
The first step will therefore consist of structuring existing production. This could include optimizing certain repetitive tasks, introducing new machines, or optimizing production flows to minimize waiting times.
A manufacturing product
For Christian Ostermann: « Blind manufacturing is a niche profession that requires specific know-how to design high-end products. As a custom manufactured product, each blind is designed to the customer's precise specifications, making it an artisan craft. »
Indeed, blinds – whether awnings, vertical blinds or roof blinds – are tailor-made products that comply with specific manufacturing requirements. With close links to the textile industry, this profession is artisanal in nature, and the design is mainly done to specifications, depending on the specific requirements of clients; whether it is the aesthetics or functionality of the product.
Schenker Stores' desire to have a qualified workforce trained in specific trade techniques and with an interest in textiles is an essential component of its production strategy. Since blind manufacturing is an artisanal and specialized trade, the skill and expertise of workers is crucial to ensure the quality and finish of the products.
And, this includes mastering the different stages of production, such as taking precise measurements, cutting materials, lacquering, assembly, sewing and finishing.
Christian Ostermann will also be responsible for ensuring that ongoing and ongoing training is undertaken to ensure that workers acquire the necessary skills and stay at the forefront of industry techniques and innovations.
Backed by a qualified and passionate workforce, Schenker Stores ensures that its high-end products are manufactured with the greatest care and meet the highest requirements in terms of quality and finish.
For Christian Ostermann: « It is by investing in training and promoting the know-how of our employees that we will strengthen our ability to offer exceptional products and maintain our reputation for excellence. »
Christian Ostermann's challenge lies in reconciling rapid growth with the establishment of a more industrialized structure. He will have to compete with internal teams, suppliers and partners to create a smooth and efficient production chain, capable of meeting growing demand while maintaining high standards of quality and service.
The arrival of Christian Ostermann brings new experience and strategic vision; well-founded to take on this challenge in order to lead Schenker Stores France towards sustained and commendable growth, while consolidating the company's reputation as a leader in the sector.