How we see ourselves and our corporate policy maxims

Continuity in the way we think and act is a cornerstone of our corporate success. Since the business was founded STIHL has always taken the long-term view, while preserving flexibility and adaptability. The working relationship based on trust between the Executive Board and the owning family guarantees continuity in the firm's strategic orientation. The business is concentrated on the firm's core expertise: developing, producing and marketing chainsaws and power tools.

As a mid-sized family business, STIHL values independence. The pillars of its independence are the legal form of the enterprise, appropriate profit, a high equity share and our own production and marketing subsidiaries. To ensure our continuing independence and planning certainty we pay particular attention to manufacturing, organic growth and developing know-how.

STIHL is firmly oriented to customers' requirements, because the success of the business ultimately depends on customer satisfaction. To ensure customers get the best possible advice, product familiarization and service all our machines are sold through servicing dealers, according to the motto followed by company founder, Andreas Stihl: "A chainsaw is only as good as its servicing."

As an employer STIHL attaches importance to trained and committed employees and promotes an open, achievement-oriented and employee-oriented management culture. Personal contact is especially important. Education and training have always ranked high at STIHL. Managers are expected to set an example and in particular to implement corporate strategies and values and carry them forward as part of their executive role.

All over the world "Made by STIHL" means top product and process quality. Our high level of development know-how is the foundation of the firm's international technical leadership. STIHL continually demonstrates its world-leading competence with innovations designed to improve functionality, ease of product use, environmental protection and health and safety at work.

STIHL operates internationally and is present on every continent. The Group's global orientation includes not only worldwide marketing but also production locations and competent international suppliers. In that context we take into account the variety of cultural differences in these different places. We pursue a balanced locational policy within the international manufacturing network.

STIHL maintains a good relationship with its dealers, suppliers and all other business partners, based on long-term partnership. Fair dealing and good interpersonal relations, both internally and externally, are a major component of business success. Our employees observe the "principles of social responsibility".