Emil Brändli is a dynamic entrepreneur - and happy in his choice of profession of sealing specialist: he creates as well as trades in seals. He therefore chose Poesia as a suitable name for his group of companies in Unterkulm, as the German word Dichtung means both 'seal' and 'poem.'
Mr. Brändli, the name Poesia stimulates thought, but does not necessarily give any clues about the group's activities. What exactly do you do?
Our slogan is 'Seals and more.' That is exactly what we do. We manufacture seals of all descriptions.
How did the company originate?
In 1997, in my house in Unterkulm. MK Dichtungs AG was a small company which traded in seals and amalgamated with BK Brändli. BK Brändli manufactures threaded bush systems. A year later, PBC Polymer AG, which produces profiles and silicone materials, joined the group. Trading with seals was then supplemented by in-house production of seals.
The last company to join the group was Stuck AG in Hochdorf. It is active in the production of EPDM, TPE, NBR, silicone and HNBR materials for industry and the building sector - to put it simply, the group manufactures seals for the industry.
And how would you explain to a lay person exactly what you do?
I explain to them that they come across our products every day - in windows, showers, on taps. Anywhere where soft seals are present, we are the potential suppliers.
Are you globally active?
No, we would not be able to compete in terms of price. Our business is in Switzerland, and we are not one of the largest companies here either. But we have found the right niche: with more than 2,000 different seals in stock, we have the largest range and are able to manufacture any seal within just a few days.
All you have to do is just send us a sample. Thanks to the fact that various companies have amalgamated under one roof, we are able to offer an inimitable service because we have unique know-how.
And why do you not have any competition in this area?
Because large companies are not interested in small quantities. However, it is a fact that repair material is always required.
Why did you come to Unterkulm with your companies?
I come from here, and my heart is in Unterkulm. But naturally the framework conditions had to be right as well: first, the Feldmatte industrial area has proven itself to be the right terrain, and secondly we received assistance from the municipality and the cantonal authorities of Aargau.
The Aargau authorities are familiar with the needs of industry and are therefore a capable contact partner. What is more, the location is perfect. Unterkulm provides easy access to neighboring countries and is easily accessible from everywhere.
Where do your employees come from?
A proportion is from the region. We hope that in a few years time all employees will come to work by train, on the Wynental railway.
If we then realise our dream of an electric cycle park, we will not only be environmentally-friendly, but will also be able to expand our position as a modern and progressive employer.
