A BUSINESS FOR FAMILIES

Three generations, one company: The Arnold family between logistics, shipping, and future plans. At ORAFOL, the Arnolds have been combining work and family life for three generations. Oliver Arnold leads a team in the shipping department, his son Erik has just started his training as a warehouse logistics specialist, and Oliver’s mother-in-law, Manuela Henne, who began working at ORAFOL almost 30 years ago, is now looking forward to retirement. A conversation about trust, motivation, and the little moments that make work feel personal.

Mr. Arnold, you’ve been with ORAFOL since 2005. How did that come about, and what role did your mother-in-law play in it?

I was, of course, familiar with ORAFOL — it’s the largest employer in Oranienburg. When I was looking for a job in 2005, I talked to my mother-in-law, who had already been with the company since 1996. The way she described the work and the company culture was so positive that I decided to apply. I started in the Graphic Solutions division as a picker and packer. Today, I’m a team leader in the shipping department — and now the supervisor of my mother-in-law, who works in my team.

Three generations in the same company — how does that feel, Mr. Arnold?

We all manage to keep work and private life separate. We see each other during the day, but Erik works in another department, so for now there’s not much overlap. But I’m definitely looking forward to having him join my department during his training.

Erik, what’s it like having your father working in the same company? Does that help — or is it sometimes a challenge?

It has its advantages because he knows the company so well. For example, I can easily ask him a quick question if I need to.

Erik, you’re the third generation of your family to work at ORAFOL. How did that happen?

In 2022, I joined my father for a training information day at the company. I found the processes and tasks in the logistics department so interesting that I first took a holiday job there and then did an internship. After finishing school, I started my training as a warehouse logistics specialist and I’m now in my first year.

Ms. Henne, you’re about to retire. How has work at ORAFOL changed over the years?

There have been many changes. Hardly anything is the same as it used to be, and not everything comes easy anymore. That’s why it’s so helpful to have supervisors like Oliver, who are always ready to explain new procedures — and of course, he doesn’t just do that for me. At ORAFOL, older employees are generally supported and “brought along” through change.

Erik, would you recommend ORAFOL to other young people?

Absolutely! There are many opportunities for development, and it’s simply fun to work here. I’ve also encouraged my friends to apply. Some of them hadn’t even heard of ORAFOL — and I’d like to change that.

Mr. Arnold, what do you appreciate about ORAFOL?

ORAFOL is a family-owned company, and you can feel that — in the flat hierarchies and the way people treat each other. It’s an exciting, future-oriented company that offers me a secure and well-paid job. My own career path — from picker and packer to team leader — also shows how strongly employees are supported here, provided they’re willing to get involved.

Erik, what motivates you?

The short commute is definitely a plus. And of course, the training itself is exciting and the working atmosphere is great.

Mr. Arnold, are there any moments that show you ORAFOL is more than just a workplace?

The Family & Friends Day, for example, when ORAFOL opens its doors to relatives and friends for exclusive tours of the site and production halls. Or during training days and the traditional dragon boat race in Oranienburg — that’s when a family business truly becomes a business for families.

Ms. Henne, you’ve been connected to the company for decades. Are you still looking forward to retirement?

Of course. I’m looking forward to spending more time with my grandchildren and discovering new travel destinations. And through Oliver and Erik, my connection to ORAFOL will continue.

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