European Economic and Social Committee's fact finding visit to KLEEMANN Hellas in Kilkis, Greece

The Consultative Commission on Industrial Change (known by its French acronym of CCMI, Commission Consultative des Mutations Industrielles) is a distinct body within the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC). 

The Bureau (Executive Board of CCMI) conducted a fact finding visit and we welcomed CCMI experts in our premises at KLEEMANN Hellas in Kilkis to see the transformations that digitization has produced on the manufacturing processes of this industrial sector.

The CCMI's activities include examining the changes in industry  which span a wide range of sectors, such as the digital transformation, with a particular focus on the sectoral, social and societal impact of digital industrial change in both manufacturing and services, for example as regards the service and financial sectors, the automotive industry, the health sector and the impact of digital industrial change on  vocational training, education, public-private partnerships, social and civil dialogues, and the general transition from Industry 4.0 to Society 5.0.

Mr. Giannis Sanidiotis, General Manager of KLEEMANN GROUP, stated: “We are delighted to welcome today the Consultative Commission on Industrial Change at our facilities in Kilkis. Digitalisation is a global phenomenon that touches our lives. Many of our day-to-day activities have been transformed over the last decade. KLEEMANN works towards this direction, combining new technologies and business agility while adjusting to changes in the market and customer needs. Digital transformation is not just a technical issue but a cultural change with a mindset for innovation. 

During the last five years, we have invested more than 30m euros in innovation. KLEEMANN owns 26 registered patents. The technological innovations that have been

patented define and promote KLEEMANN's constant goal to improve its products and services through pioneering solutions. We implement the 5s method of Lean manufacturing at our production facilities and offices for creating an organized, safe, clean, efficient workplace that makes the abnormalities immediately visible.

We also participate in European research programs that promote innovation such as Composition and E-factory.

Most importantly, we invest in our people. KLEEMANN offers a diverse range of learning and growth opportunities to all its employees, enhancing or developing skills, experience and talent, as they are the key to the success of digital transformation”.

Mrs Lucie Studnicna, CCMI president, stated: “We have seen today an excellent example of company with genuine sustainable approach implemented in all aspects of its operation, quality control and corporate management. Especially focus on development and well-being of labour force as a main asset is a feature which is often missing, has been very much appreciated.

The way how this company is managed could be used as "model case" of European style of doing business.”