Hessen-Champions 2026 Awarded to Three Leading Companies in Innovation, Employment, and Market Leadership

At the 34th Hessian Entrepreneur Day in Wiesbaden on October 27, three companies were honoured as Hessen-Champions 2026 in recognition of their outstanding contributions to the Hessen economy. The awards highlighted excellence in Innovation, Employer of the Year, and World Market Leader & Hidden Champion categories.

Deputy Prime Minister and Economic Minister Kaweh Mansoori praised the companies for embodying the strength of Hessen's economy, attributing their success to bold leadership and dedicated workforces. Mansoori emphasized the importance of fair wages, good working conditions, and planning security to maintain economic strength in Hessen. VhU President Wolf Matthias Mang noted that the champions represent the theme "Drehkreuz Zukunft – What Makes a Strong Location Tomorrow" through their ability to transform opportunities into success.

The three awarded companies are:
1. baier & michels GmbH & Co. KG (Innovation) – recognized as a leading manufacturer of precision metal parts.
2. GEORG FEHL & SOHN GmbH (Employer of the Year) – lauded for implementing a four-day workweek and focusing on employee development.
3. PRIMES GmbH (World Market Leader & Hidden Champion) – honoured for excellence in high-precision laser diagnostic measurement systems.

Dr. Steffen Huth from MBG H stressed the critical role of small and medium-sized enterprises as the economic backbone driving jobs and innovation. The event was organised by the Hessian Ministry of Economic Affairs, VhU, and MBG H, with support from Hessen Trade & Invest GmbH.

These awards underscore the continual impact of SMEs in powering Hessen’s economic future through innovation, workplace excellence, and global market leadership.