Eglfing/Herborn, Germany (August 4, 2025) – After more than four decades with the company, Hans-Werner Schmidt will retire from his active role at Welbilt Germany on 31 August 2025. As part of this transition, he will hand over management responsibilities to Pere Taberner, Vice President Sales & Marketing, Welbilt EMEA.

Hans-Werner Schmidt joined the company in 1981 and has played a key role in shaping the development of Welbilt Germany ever since. With his experience, strategic foresight, and reliability, he has guided the company through many phases of transformation – from its early days as Alco Foodservice through its time as Welbilt, Enodis, Manitowoc, Manitowoc Foodservice, and back again to Welbilt under today’s ownership by the Ali Group.

Among Schmidt’s most notable achievements during his tenure are the establishment and ongoing expansion of a powerful sales and service organization in Central and Eastern Europe, the company’s growth into one of the most important partners for both global and regional foodservice chains, and the development of an EMEA hub with revenue responsibilities exceeding €200 million.

“Hans-Werner Schmidt has played a defining role in shaping Welbilt Germany over many years. We are deeply grateful for his contributions and long-standing commitment and wish him all the best for this new chapter in life,” said Erik Nommsen, Chief Executive Officer EMEA/APAC at the Ali Group.

By appointing Pere Taberner, Welbilt is emphasizing continuity and expertise. In addition to his current responsibilities for Sales and Marketing in the EMEA region, Taberner will take on the role of Managing Director of Welbilt Deutschland GmbH as well as the leadership of the service division in Germany. He will be supported in this expanded role by Andrea Bernhardt, Sales Operations Director at Welbilt Deutschland GmbH.

Claus Pedersen will remain Managing Director of Welbilt Deutschland GmbH, continuing to be responsible for the Convotherm brand.

With this new structure, Welbilt Germany is well-positioned for continued stable growth in the foodservice market.