Waiblingen, 03.07.2026 | Press Release

STIHL awards top suppliers in 2025

STIHL once again honored its top-performing suppliers this year, underlining the importance of long-term, collaborative partnerships in the global procurement network.

The family-owned company recognized suppliers that delivered outstanding performance in 2025 in the areas of quality, technology, innovation, service, and value for money. The award ceremony took place at the STIHL Brand World in Waiblingen. In addition to the awards ceremony, guests gained insights into the company and the STIHL brand through a tour of the Brand World and a product demonstration. 

Martin Schwarz, STIHL Executive Board Member for Manufacturing and Materials, emphasizes the central role partners play in the company's success: “Our suppliers are far more than just vendors. They are co-creators, enablers, and often catalysts – for innovation, quality, and the ongoing development of our products and processes.”

The winning suppliers for 2025 are: 

  • Defond Electrical Industries Ltd. (Hong Kong, China)
    Manufacturer of electrical switches, sensors, and electronic control modules
  • Emil Frei GmbH & Co. KG (Bräunlingen, Germany)
    Manufacturer of paint and coating systems
  • JAKO Innotec Kft. (Szekszárd, Hungary)
    Manufacturer of precision parts 
  • Johnson Electric Holdings Ltd. (Hong Kong, China)
    Manufacturer of motors and electromechanical components
  • Selettra S.R.L. (Bentivoglio, Italy)
    Manufacturer of engine and drive components 

The “Sustainability Supplier of the Year 2025” award was presented to the printing company mediaprint solutions GmbH (Paderborn, Germany). The company excelled with its resource-saving offset and digital printing processes, as well as the introduction of a digital product passport that provides full transparency into product and lifecycle data.

Marc Moser, Senior Vice President Purchasing at STIHL, emphasizes the importance of reliability and responsibility in these partnerships: “Successful partnerships are built on trust, openness, and the willingness to take responsibility – on both sides.”

With this award, STIHL not only recognizes the outstanding performance of its suppliers, but also highlights its commitment to long-term, sustainable collaboration across the entire value chain.

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