Koblenz-Bassenheim. With a mixture of retrospectiveness, appreciation and a clear focus on the future, Knapp Service Koblenz GmbH celebrated its more than 25th anniversary and the new company headquarters in Koblenz-Bassenheim. The two-day event, under the motto “KNAPP says thank you” combined expert input, lively discussions – and last but not least, culinary delights.
The opening event at the Vulkanbrauerei Brewery in Mendig was marked by personal insights. Company founder Dr. Ulrich Knapp reflected on the company's eventful history – from the takeover of military activities from Philipp-Scherer to the merger with the Kissling Group and the challenges of the coronavirus pandemic and the "turning point." His conclusion: Constancy and openness to change form the foundation of the company's identity.
On the second day, the new site in Koblenz-Bassenheim was the focus. In over 3,000 square meters of modern workshop and hall space, it became clear that KNAPP is focusing not only on the past, but above all on the future: sustainable maintenance, highly secure infrastructure, and a PV system included.
The focus of the specialist program ranged from current security policy developments to concrete challenges facing medium-sized enterprises. Managing Director Oliver Mittelsdorf opened with the groundbreaking presentation "Quo vadis KNAPP" – an honest assessment of the current situation and vision for the future in the tension between hybrid threats, NATO strategies, and new technological fields.
Impulses from science, law and business followed:
- Prof. Dr. Erwin Hesser spoke about resilience in critical infrastructures and emphasized the need for robust systems in times of crisis.
- Attorney Norbert Dippel illuminated the pitfalls of public procurement processes in a practical way.
- Dr. Matthias Witt from WIMCOM GmbH expertly analyzed the opportunities and risks of rearmament for small and medium-sized businesses – from market concentration to technology transfer.
In addition to the in-depth content, there was also room for personal interaction – accompanied by high-quality catering that left guests and organizers alike satisfied. The regional buffet, with its sophisticated specialties, left nothing to be desired.
Conclusion
The anniversary celebration was more than a retrospective—it was a signal for a new beginning. KNAPP is positioning itself as a flexible partner in a dynamic security and defense policy environment. Or, as Dr. Knapp put it: "If we remain open to new things while remaining true to our values, we can look to the future with confidence."
Source: cpm Defence Network – News: Defence and Defense Technology – Author: Marc Eschbach
