What began in 2002 with one location and 160 employees is now a success story with around 750 employees and 16 locations in seven countries. With its SPRECON product line, the company controls, monitors and protects the transmission and distribution grids of energy suppliers in Austria, Europe and beyond. But even though Sprecher operates worldwide, the company remains loyal to its Austrian location and produces exclusively in Linz.
Raffeiner: "I am delighted to receive the highly coveted Entrepreneur of the Year award, because it is a very appreciative, public recognition for years of rolling up one's sleeves successfully. I realise that a flash of inspiration or an idea is no guarantee of success. Without my shareholder colleagues, who have supported the Sprecher Automation project for many years, and without the many dedicated colleagues at Sprecher Automation, who provide us with excellent products and highly satisfied customers, I would not have been brought onto the stage as the winner. That's why a large part of this fantastic award also belongs to these people."
Raffeiner's vision and innovative approaches have led the company through many challenges. From the management buyout from a French group to successful expansion and overcoming the chip crisis in 2021/22, his entrepreneurial actions have always shown a strong focus on sustainable growth and employee retention. Sprecher Automation's products are essential for the energy transition and make a significant contribution to the transformation of the energy system. The high level of customer orientation and the focus on local production not only strengthen the local economy, but also secure crisis-proof jobs in the region.