Bike-Friendly and Future-Focused: How OTTO WULFF Supports Your Health and Drives Sustainability
In Germany, the Allgemeine Deutsche Fahrrad-Club (ADFC) exclusively awards the EU-wide certification “Bicycle-Friendly Employer.” The certificate encourages companies to make commuting by bike easier for their employees. The OTTO WULFF site in Hamburg has recently been proudly awarded the “Silver” seal.
OTTO WULFF as a bicycle-friendly employer
To receive the certification, OTTO WULFF in Hamburg was audited by the ADFC across various areas and awarded points. A small project team of two trainees, two interns, and our sustainability manager prepared and supported the certification process.
“The certification as a bicycle-friendly employer underlines our commitment to employee health and sustainability. Through our many bicycle-friendly measures at OTTO WULFF, we encourage cycling among our employees and are taking another step towards the mobility transition,” says Holger Fieseler, Managing Director of OTTO WULFF Project Development, explaining the significance of the award.
OTTO WULFF was particularly praised for the excellent infrastructure at its main site on Archenholzstraße in Hamburg. Covered bicycle parking near the entrance, a bicycle cellar with tools for minor repairs, as well as showers and changing facilities, make it easier for colleagues to commute by bike. The OTTO WULFF-sponsored bicycle leasing scheme and job ticket offer are also widely used.
This infrastructure is complemented by campaigns and events that boost motivation and promote employee health. The internal initiative “Macht Strecke für gute Zwecke” combines exercise with a good cause. In this walking challenge, OTTO WULFF employees accumulate steps through various physical activities. When the company-wide target is reached, OTTO WULFF donates to a different charitable organization each year. Passionate cyclists always make a significant contribution to the campaign’s success, as cycling distances are also recorded and included.
In conversation with our Sustainability Manager Jens Marquardt:
1. What are the benefits of being a bike-friendly employer?
A well-developed cycling infrastructure and easy access to attractive commuting routes encourage employees to use their bikes more often. Even for those who already cycle to work, a bike-friendly workplace offers numerous advantages and added convenience. Cycling to work each day increases daily exercise, contributing to overall well-being and health.
2. What other incentives does OTTO WULFF offer to encourage cycling?
There are many more initiatives: joint cycling events, for example, strengthen team spirit among colleagues and promote a sustainable corporate culture. Several such events take place at OTTO WULFF each year. The company also supports employees through the JobRad scheme. This provides insurance coverage and makes higher-end bikes more affordable thanks to the benefits of company bike leasing. With a small, fixed monthly contribution, employees can save up to 30% compared to purchasing the bike themselves.
Another incentive for short distances is our OTTO WULFF e-bike. We have a rental e-bike available at our Archenholzstraße location, which can be booked for trips to the building yard or construction sites.
3. And how do you get to work yourself?
I cycle whenever possible. I don’t lose any time compared to public transport, and when cars are stuck in traffic, I can navigate the city much faster using the well-developed cycle routes.
