Fourth Lutz Holding Oktoberfest unites international colleagues in Wertheim
Unproductive working to rule, job-hopping tendencies and sick leave are symptoms of a lack of emotional connection between employees and their employers – a challenge currently costing the German economy billions. Building a motivating company culture has become essential to countering this trend. This was one of the driving reasons why Lutz Holding GmbH hosted its fourth Oktoberfest on 25 September 2025, welcoming employees from around the world to Wertheim to strengthen their sense of belonging to the company across all locations.
‘More than ever before, an appreciative corporate culture is decisive for the competitiveness of companies’ (Heinz Lutz, Managing Director of Lutz Holding GmbH)
The Gallup Engagement Index paints a stark picture: only 9% of employees in Germany feel a strong emotional connection to their employer, leaving 91% often doing no more than the bare minimum. This widespread disengagement caused an estimated €113.1 billion loss in productivity in 2024. “This development poses a fundamental threat to the competitiveness of German companies,” said Heinz Lutz, Managing Director of Lutz Holding GmbH in Wertheim. “It demonstrates that a company culture that motivates and appreciates its employees is more than just an optional extra. More than ever, it determines the performance and competitiveness of companies.”
“Digital meetings connect computer screens, not people”
In response, Lutz Holding GmbH is working to make its environment as appealing as possible to nurture stronger bonds between staff and “their” company. This commitment includes investments in professional training and development, health initiatives, family-friendly work models and cultivating a relaxed working atmosphere. A key symbol of these efforts is the company’s annual Oktoberfest for staff – an event that has become synonymous with Lutz’s approach to corporate culture.
Employees travelled to Wertheim from across Europe, Asia and the USA, a significant logistical undertaking that Lutz Holding considers well worth the effort. Heinz Lutz explained: “Digital meetings connect computer screens, not people. The Oktoberfest is not just an expression of the value that we place on our staff and an expression of thanks for their passion and efforts; the time spent together also strengthens the team spirit of the company beyond local boundaries.”
Water technology as a driver of growth
The management team also used the event to underline its strategic messaging. The recent inclusion of Lutz Pumpen in the Encyclopedia of German World Market Leaders reflects the company’s positive progress, with particular optimism coming from the growth of the water technology market.
Heinz Lutz stated: “Urbanisation and population growth is currently driving the global demand for drinking water solutions. This mega trend secures a long-term perspective for our employees.” He highlighted the importance of this message at a time when, according to Gallup, only 34% of employees feel fully confident in the financial future of their employer. “Committed and confident employees are our most valuable asset,” concluded Heinz Lutz. “They provide the best protection against future challenges.”