Dear Colleagues,
We are all eager to finally put the COVID-19 pandemic behind us. And a brief look at the figures shows that we’re slowly getting closer to reaching this goal: the progressing vaccination roll-out in many countries is resulting in fewer restrictions. As a consequence, the economy is also gradually recovering. These effects can be seen in current data from the US, for example, demonstrating an upturn in the economy, and from China, which is currently experiencing record growth.
Regarding Bauerfeind, I am pleased to report an initial upward trend as well. While the year got off to a slow start, March was the most successful month for us since the beginning of the pandemic. We no longer need short-time working arrangements in production, and orders remained at a good overall level during April. Online sales in China and the US are stimulating our business, as does an increasing number of surgeries in hospitals that require the subsequent provision of medical aids. In this crisis, Bauerfeind has proven to be a reliable partner: we implemented all conceivable measures to ensure we can keep up our supply capability for our customers, healthcare professionals and patients. This has demanded a lot of discipline and perseverance from you. And in the weeks ahead, we will still need an extra dose of both these qualities. But our efforts have proven to make a real difference.
Sincerely,
Rainer Berthan
Chief Executive Officer
News Ticker
+++ In mid-April, a vaccination center was set up in the Bio-Seehotel Zeulenroda. The reason for that was the increased incidence rate in the Greiz district, which has been over 500 and is now around 211,5 add current figure. This will allow an additional 7,000 doses of vaccine to be given in the Karpfenpfeifersaal Hall until the end of May. +++
+++ Four new modules for the Cyber Security Training are available online and can now be completed. Topics include security on mobile devices as well as data protection. Everybody at Bauerfeind who uses a computer or laptop has been taking part in this mandatory training since January 2021. Every participant will receive a reminder email containing a link to the e-learning portal on May 03, 2021. +++
+++ The two new colors for Bauerfeind’s VenoTrain curaflow flat-knit compression products are “Coral” and “Ocean”. They have been available globally since the middle of April. +++
+++ From May 12, 2021, Jürgen Baden, Chief of Healthcare, will take on the responsibilities of the company data protection officer for the Bauerfeind corporate entities in Germany. He will cover for Christiane Ludwig, the existing Data Protection Officer, until she returns from maternity leave. If you have any questions about data protection, you can reach Mr. Baden at extension +49 3662866 1103. +++
+++ On May 26, 2021, the amended Medical Device Regulation 2017/745 (MDR) will come into force. It will be applicable in the Member States of the European Union and will also result in new requirements for Bauerfeind. This includes, for example, specific obligations relating to due diligence, inspection and providing information. Bauerfeind is well-prepared for the MDR and has been briefing Quality Partners about this subject for several weeks. +++