The Volkswagen Group has acknowledged the exceptional contributions of its suppliers at the 21st edition of the Volkswagen Group Award, held at the Autostadt in Wolfsburg. Ahead of the award ceremony, approximately 120 leading supplier partners gathered for a Supplier Management Conference focused on future sourcing strategies and innovative collaboration models. Held under the theme “Mission: Possible”, the event emphasized transparency, adaptability, and partnership in an increasingly complex global landscape.
Supply chain collaboration remains a strategic priority for the Group, combining global reach with regional responsiveness to meet evolving customer and market demands. These long-term alliances enable more agile operations, drive efficiency, and enhance resilience.
“As we look ahead, the coming years will bring both complexity and opportunity,” said Dirk Große-Loheide, Member of the Extended Executive Committee and the Volkswagen Brand Board of Management for Procurement. “The Volkswagen Group Award reflects our commitment to operational excellence, aligned strategies across our supply base, and high-performance partnerships. With more than 30 model launches planned in 2025 across various platforms and regions, close cooperation with our suppliers is more critical than ever.”
This year’s awards spotlighted achievements in ten strategic areas, aligned with the Group’s procurement goals. From sustainability to digital innovation, each category highlights the vital role suppliers play in advancing Volkswagen’s vision.
Magna International Inc received recognition for its collaborative efforts with Volkswagen in the rapid development and industrialization of a complex battery cover solution. This achievement highlighted the supplier’s agility and technical capability in a fast-evolving sector. The award was presented by Oliver Blume, CEO of Volkswagen Group, alongside Michael Kerschensteiner, who oversees Group Procurement for New Product Launches.
Texas Instruments Incorporated was honored for its exceptional performance in maintaining a steady and resilient supply of semiconductors—an increasingly vital component in modern vehicles. The company’s forward-thinking investments in manufacturing infrastructure were key factors in its selection. The recognition was presented by Hauke Stars, responsible for IT at Volkswagen, and Bernd Zielke, Head of Group Procurement Central Functions.
Astemo Ltd was acknowledged for its strategic shift from supplying combustion engine components to embracing electric mobility technologies. This transformation reflects a forward-looking approach and strong alignment with Volkswagen’s future product roadmap. Presenting the award were Thomas Schmall, Board Member for Technology, and Simone Grote, Head of Group Procurement Powertrain.
Gestamp Automoción, SA earned its award for long-term collaboration and consistent alignment with Volkswagen’s strategic objectives across various regions. The company has demonstrated its reliability and adaptability over time, becoming a trusted partner. The award was presented by Dirk Große-Loheide, along with Turgay Yetim, who leads procurement for Group Technology and High-Voltage Batteries.
Huizhou Desay SV Automotive Co, Ltd was celebrated for its cost-effective delivery of advanced vehicle display systems across several Volkswagen brands. The company’s ability to maintain both quality and affordability contributed to its recognition. The award was presented by Ralf Brandstätter, Board Member for China, and Volker Lages, Head of Group Procurement in Connectivity, eMobility, and Driver Assistance.
Quality Plated Plastics received a special honor for its resilience and operational reliability following a major fire that threatened production continuity. The company’s swift recovery ensured uninterrupted supply, reinforcing its value as a dependable partner. The recognition was presented by Werner Tietz of SEAT S.A. and Stefan Tägtmeyer, Head of Group Procurement Interior.
Aptiv PLC was recognized for its advancements in supply chain risk management. The company implemented systems that not only identify potential disruptions but also improve overall resilience—an increasingly critical capability in today’s global market. Arno Antlitz, CFO & COO of Volkswagen Group, along with Martin Fries, who oversees procurement for supply chains, presented the award.
Vodafone Group Plc stood out for its ability to align regional activities with Volkswagen’s global strategy. The telecom giant has enabled consistent communication and streamlined operations across various markets. The award was presented by Thomas Schäfer, CEO of Volkswagen Passenger Cars, and Maik Roßdeutscher, Head of Procurement General. Additional honors went to Steel Dynamics for its commitment to sustainable steel production and circular practices, and to Valeo S.A. for innovation in sensor technology and its strategic contributions to cost and process improvements.
The event not only celebrated innovation and excellence but reinforced the critical role suppliers play in shaping the future of mobility alongside the Volkswagen Group. Through continued collaboration, the company aims to remain agile, sustainable, and innovation-focused in the global automotive landscape.
