Sto is the global market leader in the area of external wall insulation systems!

Germany has been envied internationally for many years for having the highest density of medium-sized global market leaders compared to its population. What actually characterises these companies that are also frequently described as “Hidden Champions”? Well, these leaders occupy high-growth market niches, are innovative, have an international presence, are solidly funded, and have built up a unique brand. In many cases, these companies are also still managed by their founders or are family-owned.

Which German medium-sized companies are actually allowed to call themselves “global market leaders” in their industry sector has now been scientifically researched by the team of Prof. Dr Christoph Müller at the HBM Unternehmerschule of the University of St. Gallen in cooperation with “Wirtschaftswoche” as media partner. In order to be accepted into the global leader index in the DACH countries: Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, a number of criteria needs to be met. The companies must have the highest or second highest market share in their segment, their annual turnover must be at least 50 million EUR, and at least half of it must be earned abroad. Finally, the company must be active on at least three continents.

Sto SE & Co. KGaA meets all of these criteria in relation to its business field “external wall insulation systems”. In 2016, the company had a worldwide total annual turnover of around EUR 1,231 million. In addition to the area of external wall insulation systems, the core range also includes high-quality facade elements as well as renders and paints that are offered for building exteriors and interiors alike.

Rainer Hüttenberger is delighted about this award, “For us, this recognition is excellent confirmation of our efforts in the areas of internationalisation, research and development, as well as our earnings-oriented growth course.”