A change of company ownership challenges the internal communication

Wilden AG was acquired by the Gerresheimer Group in early 2007. Both companies are active in the demanding field of pharmaceuticals and the life sciences industry.

A merger of separate organisations and cultures always entails changes for the employees. For those changes not to generate incalculable uncertainties, it is important to communicate according to employees needs. Another crucial factor is to ensure open exchanges with personnel about their problems and fears.

In order to make the right decisions for the company and its workforce, management wanted a realistic impression of the opinions, moods, expectations and fears of employees at locations in five different countries (Germany, Switzerland, the USA, China and the Czech Republic).

As a basis for assessment, Peter Bütikofer & Company Berlin and Newland conducted online surveys at regular intervals in the countries concerned. Employees could express themselves freely and anonymously, and they had ready online-access to survey results.

Evaluation of the employee surveys and comparative analyses between countries provided management with important data and awareness of workforce satisfaction, as well as a dependable basis for employee communications.