Dear Readers,
I am Anna-Lena and I am responsible for exports at GVB-geliMED GmbH. Together with my Deputy Managing Director Laura Geiselberger and my Sales Manager Sascha David, I had the honor of traveling to Genoa (Italy).
Genoa was chosen as a destination due to the fact that the headquarters of SPES Medica are located here.
But who is SPES Medica? SPES Medica is one of the leading manufacturers in the field of neurology, neurophysiology and neurosurgery. But that's not all - SPES Medica has been a trusted business partner of GVB-geliMED GmbH for over 20 years. Over the years, we have founded various companies together, such as GVB-SPES EsPO in Spain, GVB-SPES SA in South Africa, GVB-SPES Poland, GVB-SPES Beneluxe, and also acquired companies such as Unimed in the UK. For us, SPES Medica represents more than just a business relationship - it is synonymous with "family".
Business partners from all over the world at SPES Medica in Genoa
The trip not only offered the opportunity to enjoy the sun and the delicacies of Italian cuisine, but also took us to our annual kick-off in Italy. Business partners from all over the world gathered there - from Spain, England, Israel, China, Japan, Vietnam, Denmark and many other countries. Our common goal: "Sustainability at heart, future in every action", as well as developing a strategy for the year 2024. We strived to gain technical know-how and learn about innovative products.
Fascinating insights and sightseeing
After landing, we were able to indulge in some Italian cuisine before devoting ourselves to our work. Matteo Mistretta, CEO of SPES Medica, showed us around the company and gave us fascinating insights. Of course, we met many familiar faces and were delighted to see them again.
Of course, sightseeing was also a must. We explored the "new" city of Genoa to marvel at the most important sights. Did you know, for example, that Christopher Columbus was born in Genoa? Or that the lottery was invented in Genoa? Genoa is a city full of secrets that are worth taking a look behind the scenes.
"Safe for the Patient - Safer for the Planet"
We started our meeting on Thursday and were first warmly welcomed by Mr. Mistretta. Then Wally Abiodun, an external consultant from SPES Medica, who had set himself the goal of "Moving forward", took over. He proved to be an extremely inspiring speaker. Marketing, Customer Service and finally Quality Management presented their current status and plans for the remainder of the day. The key business motto "Safe for the Patient - Safer for the Planet" was clearly explained in every presentation and backed up with examples. Needless to say, this motto met with approval from all sides. A lively exchange took place, which was of great benefit to all participants. Everyone can benefit from the experiences of others and possibly even integrate them into their own everyday working lives.
The day also culminated in a dinner together in the mountains of Genoa. The tense working atmosphere was deliberately set aside in order to take the opportunity to get to know the personalities behind the colleagues better.
Arrivederci Genoa - Hello Germany
On the second and final day, the Research & Development department presented the current status of pastes and gels. In this context, too, it once again became clear how central sustainability is for SPES Medica and all its partnerships. New packaging types and sizes are being planned, which we will of course inform you, dear readers, about in good time. The production management gave us an in-depth insight into the manufacture of the new version of our Myoline EMG needles. An extremely interesting perspective with a significant technical focus that illustrated how, for example, 4 different angles of the needle can lead to a more comfortable application on the patient.
We left for the airport around midday. The meeting was briefly interrupted so that we could say goodbye to everyone present in an appropriate manner. We greatly appreciate the contacts made and revived during this time.
It was an extremely enriching experience and we look forward to future meetings! Once again, our sincere thanks go to SPES Medica and all our colleagues for the excellent planning and execution of this meeting.