Successful in Mexico through cooperation on equal terms

As an automotive supplier based in Erkrath, Thiel & Hoche is one of the classic medium-sized companies in Germany. The company is looking back on more than 50 years of experience in the steel tube business and has been shaped by profound changes in the industry during this period. Today's product portfolio for tubular steel components for automotive series requirements ranges from body and chassis applications to interior parts, including prototyping. There is no question that this level of know-how, combined with a logistically precise service, finds its place in an international market segment.

We have been chosen to support Thiel & Hoche in their expansion and increasing internationalization. The following interview gives an insight into the mechanisms and motivations that ultimately led to the cooperation with InterGest. Our conversation partner is Wilfried Nicklas, a member of the advisory board:

Question: Mr. Nicklas, the chassis and steering are largely responsible for making a safe vehicle. Your company, Thiel & Hoche GmbH & Co. KG, uses components such as axle cross members, shock absorber tubes and / or stabilizers to produce important individual parts for automobile manufacturers. In your opinion, what are the main reasons for expanding into North America?

Answer: Yes, with our components and parts we contribute to greater vehicle stability and safety. Our shock absorber tubes, for example, are designed for the strictest tolerances. In addition, the special material properties with special mechanical properties and high-precision manufacture guarantee longevity. After the reorganization of the supplier market it was clear that we would only have a real chance to grow if we became an international player. When it comes to competitive bidding against large brands, an international footprint is required.

Question: So your response to a changing market environment was to storm ahead i.e. develop the unconditional will to become part of this international market?

Answer: Yes, that is how one could describe it. The origins of our company lie in the pipe trade - the know-how in connection with the relationships with steel manufacturers has led to the fact that we have increasingly offered application-oriented engineering services for automotive applications. When one of our major customers was looking for a partner with activities in the NAFTA market, our project - our own production facility in the NAFTA market - was given a clear direction.

Question: You took the step to Mexico with the help of another service provider. How come you were looking for and found a new partner in InterGest?

Answer: You can only serve global automotive applications in this highly competitive market with local content. I was involved in setting up our plant in Mexico and all the accompanying steps. You need premises, employees, machines, tools and much more - not to forget accounting services. And that's exactly where we felt we were in bad hands, because our previous service provider was unable to keep up with our growth and offer a fast, high-quality service.

Question: Nobody changes an accounting service provider “just like that”, unless the pressure to act is so great. What convinced you to start as a new partner with InterGest?

Answer: Our plan was actually to hire a large service provider based in Mexico as a new partner. But in the personal interactions with InterGest, it quickly became clear that we have a similar understanding of how internationalization can succeed. Especially when it comes to issues such as pay slips, employment contracts and the like, you need a partner who has your back covered. And this we found at InterGest: with Mr. Vorderwülbecke we have an excellent contact person at our side, who convinces with technical competence and to whom - like us - communication is also very important. When it comes to new topics, we work hand in hand with InterGest and on an equal footing. In addition, new subject areas are constantly emerging as a result of the collaboration, and together these are being further expanded. We are currently developing and integrating the IMMEX and VAT procedures as part of the import tax regulations for processing transports. The successful certification and the implementation with InterGest make the processing effort much easier for us. We are happy to have found a partner in InterGest who accompanies and supports us in all areas.

If you are interested in further information or would like a personal conversation with our partner, please feel free to contact Gregor Vorderwülbecke directly.