Building upon this foundation, Glaston is announcing further refinements aimed at simplifying decision-making and maximizing operational efficiency.

As of today, all Market Area leaders will report directly to President & CEO Toni Laaksonen, solidifying their roles as key contributors to the company’s strategic direction. To reflect this increased responsibility and streamline communication, these leaders will also become members of the Executive Leadership Team (ELT).

This structural change necessitates the following personnel adjustments:

• Joe Butler, previously SVP Sales & Service, Americas, is appointed EVP Sales & Service, Americas.
• Kimmo Kuusela, formerly SVP Sales & Service APAC, is appointed EVP Sales & Service, EMEA and APAC.

These appointments underscore Glaston’s commitment to strengthening its regional leadership and fostering closer collaboration across global markets.

In connection with these Executive Leadership Team changes, the Chief Sales Officer (CSO) role will no longer be part of Glaston’s Executive Leadership Team, effective May 6, 2025. Sasu Koivumäki, Chief Sales Officer, will be leaving Glaston, with his last working day being May 9, 2025.

“I want to thank Sasu for his tenure at Glaston during the past decades,” stated Toni Laaksonen, CEO of Glaston. “Sasu has held various leadership positions in the company, and he has been an important part of the team in developing Glaston through times of change. We wish him all the best in the future.”

These adjustments are designed to further optimize Glaston’s organizational structure, empowering Market Area leaders and fostering more agile decision-making processes. The updated Executive Leadership Team, effective May 6, 2025, is available for review on the company’s website. Glaston remains committed to delivering exceptional value to its customers through continuous improvement and a streamlined, efficient organizational structure.

Source:Glaston Corporation with additional information added by GlassBalkan

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The company confirmed that Mr. Elverici stepped down effective April 30th.

This leadership change sees the appointment of Mr. Can Yücel as the new CEO, effective May 1st, 2025. Mr. Yücel will also continue to serve as a Member of the Board of Directors, providing continuity and strategic oversight.

The timing of Mr. Elverici’s departure is noteworthy, coming just three weeks after he served as the keynote speaker at Şişecam’s 90th-anniversary conference. At this prominent event, he outlined the company’s future vision and its plans for the future of its annual conference, highlighting his recent and public commitment to the company’s trajectory.

Mr. Elverici was appointed to the CEO role in July 2021. During his tenure, he led Şişecam through a period of significant global and industry-specific challenges. His background is marked by a strong academic foundation and diverse professional experience. Born in Ankara in 1976, he holds a degree in Civil Engineering from Middle East Technical University, an MBA from Bilkent University, and a Ph.D. in Banking and Finance from Kadir Has University. Prior to his leadership roles at Şişecam, where he also served as CFO and Executive Board Member, Mr. Elverici gained valuable experience in business banking with institutions like İş Bankası and HSBC, and in management consulting with firms including Deloitte and Accenture.

While the reasons for Mr. Elverici’s sudden resignation have not been publicly disclosed, such transitions in leadership at major corporations can occur due to a variety of factors, ranging from personal decisions to strategic realignments.

The appointment of Mr. Can Yücel signifies a new chapter for Şişecam. As a current Member of the Board, Mr. Yücel is likely well-acquainted with the company’s operations, strategy, and ongoing initiatives. His continued presence on the board further suggests a focus on a smooth transition and the continuation of Şişecam’s strategic objectives.

The industry will be closely watching as Mr. Yücel assumes his new responsibilities and articulates his vision for Şişecam’s future. The company, a major player in the global glass market, will undoubtedly navigate this leadership change with a focus on maintaining its operational excellence, strategic growth, and commitment to its stakeholders. Further details regarding the transition and Mr. Yücel’s priorities are anticipated in the coming weeks.

Source: Şişecam with additional information added by GlassBalkan

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During his tenure, Mr. Reiter has overseen key initiatives aimed at strengthening Vetropack’s market position, enhancing operational efficiency, and promoting sustainability. His leadership has been instrumental in navigating the challenges and opportunities presented by the evolving packaging landscape.

In a statement released by the company, Mr. Reiter expressed his gratitude for his time at Vetropack, highlighting the collaborative spirit and dedication of his colleagues. He emphasized his commitment to ensuring a seamless transition for his successor and positioning the group for continued success.

“I work side-by-side with many wonderful people here at Vetropack – people I really appreciate not only as professionals, but also at the personal level,” Mr. Reiter stated. “But that’s precisely why my focus during this final year as CEO will also be on doing everything I can to make sure our group is in the best possible position for the future.”

The company confirmed that succession planning is already underway. The Board of Directors is actively engaged in the process of identifying and evaluating potential candidates to ensure a smooth and effective transition. Further details regarding the appointment of Mr. Reiter’s successor will be announced in due course.

Mr. Reiter’s departure marks a significant moment for Vetropack. The company’s focus now rests on identifying a successor who can build upon his accomplishments and lead Vetropack into its next phase of growth and innovation within the dynamic glass packaging industry. The upcoming announcement from the Board of Directors will be closely watched by industry analysts and stakeholders alike.

Source: Vetropack with additional information added by GlassBalkan

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During his time at A+W Software and the Comas Group, Mr. Dixen has made significant contributions to the further development and growth of A+W Software and Comas Group. His strategic leadership, commitment, and expertise have sustainably strengthened A+W Software’s position as a leading provider of software solutions for the glass, window, and door industry. Management and the entire team would like to thank Mr. Peter Dixen for his valuable work and wish him all the best as well as continued success in the future.

Continuity in the business relationships remains assured: The previous contacts for A+W Clarity and A+W Cantor business units, Mr. Dennis Tiegs and Mr. Hubert Woźniak, will continue to be available to customers and partners as usual. Additionally, A+W’s Global team remains unchanged and committed to your success.

Mr. Eric Herrmann succeeded Mr. Dixen as Portfolio Manager of the Comas Group on January 1, 2025, which means he will also oversee the continued growth of A+W Software. Mr. Herrmann brings more than 24 years of experience within the Constellation Software group of companies and was closely involved in the acquisition process of A+W Software.

Source: A+W Software with additional information added by GlassBalkan

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Magnus joined Glaston in 2022 and takes over as CFO from the position of VP, Business Control & Strategy. Prior to Glaston, Magnus worked for Posti Group Oyj, where he was Head of Finance, Media and Partners 2019−2022. Before that, he held various financial leadership roles at UPM, Microsoft and Nokia.

“I am very pleased with Magnus Sjöblom’s appointment as our CFO and happy that we were able to find an internal successor with excellent business and financial skill set for this position,” said Toni Laaksonen, Glaston’s President and CEO. “During the past two years, Magnus has demonstrated a strong commitment to the company with a mindset of continuous improvement. I’m confident that with Magnus’ contribution, we can further accelerate Glaston’s strategy execution.”

Glaston’s current CFO Päivi Lindqvist will leave the company on March 16, 2025. She will join Patria Oyj.

Source: Glaston with additional information added by Glasbalkan

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This plan, effective January 1, 2025, focuses on enhancing customer experience, particularly in services, driving continued profitability, and achieving greater operational efficiencies. The company’s medium-term strategic targets remain unchanged.

A key component of this initiative is a new strategic cornerstone: “Industry-leading customer service.” Glaston is significantly increasing its investment in service capabilities and resources to fuel service growth and solidify its position as a leading provider in the architectural, mobility, display, and solar markets. The company will continue to utilize its current customer industry-based segment reporting structure, meaning this reorganization will not affect its financial reporting segments.

A New Organizational Structure: Three Business Functions

The core of Glaston’s accelerated growth strategy lies in a restructuring into three key Business Functions:

Market Areas: This function will serve as the primary customer interface across the Americas, EMEA, and APAC regions. Working closely with Business Lines, Market Areas will manage machine and service sales, as well as regional service operations. Sasu Koivumäki, Chief Sales Officer, will lead this function.

Solutions & Operations: Led by Miika Äppelqvist (appointed Chief Solutions & Operations Officer effective January 1, 2025), this function will oversee all Business Line-related machine and service product portfolios. The current Business Lines (Architecture and Mobility, Display & Solar) will be reorganized within Solutions & Operations as: Tempering & Laminating, Insulating Glass (combining the current Architecture segment), and Mobility (the current MDS segment). Global production operations, supply chain management, and development will also fall under this function. Glaston is currently transferring production of mobility and display pre-processing equipment from Glaston Switzerland to its Tianjin, China facility.

Service Supply & Development: This function will concentrate on global spare parts operations and development, including global warehouses, supply chains, and service development. Recruitment for the EVP of Service Supply & Development is underway.

Glaston anticipates that these changes will not lead to significant net cost additions or savings. Employee consultations will be conducted in accordance with local processes to address any potential impacts on personnel.

Executive Leadership Team Changes

The planned organizational changes also include adjustments to the Executive Leadership Team. Miika Äppelqvist’s promotion to Chief Solutions & Operations Officer is a key appointment. The SVP Mobility, Display & Solar Business Area role will be removed from the Executive Leadership Team, effective January 1, 2025. The updated Executive Leadership Team, effective January 1, 2025, will consist of:

* Toni Laaksonen, President & CEO
* Sasu Koivumäki, Chief Sales Officer
* Riikka Laitasalo, SVP People and Culture
* Kaisa Latva, General Counsel
* Päivi Lindqvist, Chief Financial Officer
* Miika Äppelqvist, Chief Solutions & Operations Officer
* N.N., EVP Service Supply & Development (to be appointed)

This strategic reorganization reflects Glaston’s commitment to achieving its 10% comparable EBITA margin target by enhancing operational efficiency, strengthening customer relationships, and driving sustainable growth across all its market segments.

Source:Glaston Corporation with additional information added by GlassBalkan

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This year’s list, released by Inc. Business Media, features a significant number of glass-related businesses demonstrating impressive revenue growth despite challenging economic conditions. The results showcase the industry’s resilience and adaptability in a rapidly changing market.

Several companies stand out for their exceptional growth. Northern Architectural Systems, a New Jersey-based designer and manufacturer of architectural windows, wall systems, and doors, achieved a remarkable 159% three-year growth rate. President and CEO Stephen Simms attributes this success to the company’s dedication to client collaboration and the creation of high-quality architectural products.

Florida-based companies also made a strong showing. MY Shower Door, a familiar name on the Inc. 5000 list (this is its eighth appearance!), recorded a 110% three-year growth rate. Bill Daubmann, who leads both MY Shower Door and fellow Inc. 5000 honoree D3 Glass, highlights the difficulty of sustained growth for family-owned businesses in such a competitive environment. D3 Glass, a manufacturer and fabricator of flat glass products, achieved an impressive 156% growth rate. The Daubmann brothers’ success underscores the potential for significant expansion within the specialty glass market.

The Inc. 5000 rankings provide a compelling snapshot of entrepreneurial success amidst economic headwinds. The median three-year revenue growth rate for the top 500 companies was a staggering 1,637%, demonstrating the remarkable achievements of this year’s entrants. The list also underscores the significant job creation within these companies, with a combined total of 874,940 new jobs added over the past three years.

Beyond Northern Architectural Systems, MY Shower Door, and D3 Glass, other notable glass companies on the list include:

*Viva Railings: Achieving a phenomenal 803% growth, Viva Railings provides architectural railings with glass infill options.
*Skyview Detroit: With a 273% growth rate, Skyview Detroit supplies commercial and residential outdoor products, including innovative glass systems.
*Liteworks Window and Door: Specializing in custom high-end windows and doors, Liteworks recorded a 257% growth rate.
*Florida State Glass and Mirror: Providing luxury installations of shower enclosures, glass partitions, and more, Florida State Glass and Mirror showed a 131% growth rate.

The strong showing of these glass companies on the Inc. 5000 list underscores the robust health and future potential of the industry. Their successes offer valuable insights into the strategies and innovations driving growth in a competitive market, providing a roadmap for other businesses seeking similar achievements and a fantastic opportunity for companies from the Balkan region to find and see the possibility of cooperation with them.

Source:Inc. with additional information added by GlassBalkan

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Recently announced as the new CEO, Sar has acquired 100% of the company’s shares from former owners Ron Glaze and Scott Williams, both of whom have retired after years of dedicated service. With this transition, Vienna Glass is poised to build on its 70-year legacy of excellence in custom architectural aluminum and glass installations.

Vienna Glass, based in Manassas, Virginia, has long been recognized for its commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. The company specializes in a diverse range of products, including shower and bath enclosures, as well as retail glass applications, serving clients throughout Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia. As a family-owned and operated business, Vienna Glass has cultivated strong relationships within the community, a tradition that Sar is committed to maintaining.

In his first communication to customers and stakeholders, Sar emphasized that the leadership transition will not disrupt the company’s project delivery or overall business operations. “Our chief concern is that our project delivery remains unaffected by the leadership transition and that we experience seamless continuity in our business activities,” he stated. This reassurance is crucial for clients who have come to rely on Vienna Glass for their architectural needs.

Sar’s extensive background in general management, business development, and corporate finance positions him well to lead Vienna Glass into its next phase of growth. With over 20 years of experience across various industries—including banking, consumer packaged goods, and construction—he brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the role. His previous positions at EFCO Corp. and Wausau Window & Wall Systems have provided him with valuable insights into the fenestration industry, particularly in overseeing business development and key client relationships.

Importantly, Vienna Glass will continue to operate from its Manassas facility, and a full complement of experienced staff members, many of whom have been with the company for years, will remain on board. This continuity is essential for preserving the company’s reputation for quality and reliability. Furthermore, Glaze and Williams will stay on during the transition, ensuring that their invaluable knowledge and experience continue to benefit the company.

As Vienna Glass embarks on this new journey under Amadou Sar’s leadership, the company remains committed to its core values and the high standards that have defined its operations for decades. Clients can look forward to the same exceptional service and craftsmanship they have come to expect, with the added promise of innovation and growth in the years to come.

In conclusion, the acquisition of Vienna Glass Company by Amadou Sar marks a significant milestone in the company’s history. With a focus on continuity, customer satisfaction, and a commitment to its family-owned roots, Vienna Glass is well-positioned to thrive in the evolving architectural glass market. The future looks bright, and clients can be assured that their projects are in capable hands.

Source: Vienna Glass Company  with additional information added by GlassBalkan

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Kirman’s departure marks the end of an era during which he has been instrumental in transforming Şişecam into a respected and influential player on the global stage.

Şişecam’s statement highlighted Kirman’s invaluable contributions to the company since 2006, noting that under his leadership, Şişecam has surpassed regional leadership and become a truly global enterprise. Kirman’s visionary approach and unwavering commitment have been instrumental in driving the company’s remarkable growth and success.

In his farewell message, Kirman expressed his gratitude to his Şişecam colleagues, stating, “I owe a debt of gratitude to all my Şişecam colleagues in this regard. I experienced the unbearable lightness of being a team running towards the same goal, feeling the same excitement, rejoicing together and feeling sad together.” This sentiment underscores the strong sense of unity and purpose that has characterized Şişecam’s journey under Kirman’s leadership.

Kirman also acknowledged the support and guidance of Şişecam’s various stakeholders, including the world of glass, industry, and finance, who have contributed to the company’s achievements. He singled out the company’s partners, stating, “You have contributed to the successes we have achieved as a result of working together during this period.”

As Kirman prepares to embark on a new chapter, he expressed his intention to continue using the knowledge and values he has accumulated to contribute to a better world. This commitment to making a positive impact on a global scale is a testament to Kirman’s vision and his desire to leave a lasting legacy.

Şişecam’s statement emphasizes the profound impact Kirman has had on the company, transforming it from a regional player to a truly global force in the glass industry. His resignation marks the end of an era, but his legacy will undoubtedly continue to shape the company’s future and inspire future generations of leaders.

Source:Şişecam with additional information added by GlassBalkan

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The company has recently implemented the first Individual Section (IS) machine in Europe equipped with swabbing robots on both the blow and blank sides, a groundbreaking achievement that promises to transform the industry.

This innovative solution, developed in collaboration with NOVAXION, a renowned provider of glass manufacturing equipment, represents a major milestone in BA Glass’s quest for operational efficiency and process stability. By integrating these state-of-the-art swabbing robots into their IS machine, BA Glass has addressed a critical challenge that has long plagued the glass packaging industry – the labor-intensive and manual task of swabbing.

The traditional swabbing process, which involves manually cleaning the mold cavities and plungers, is not only time-consuming but also poses potential health and safety risks to the workers involved. The implementation of the automated swabbing robots, a first of its kind in Europe, has revolutionized this crucial step in the glass production process.

These advanced robots, equipped with sophisticated sensors and programming, are capable of performing the swabbing task with unparalleled precision and consistency. By automating this process, BA Glass has not only improved the overall quality and consistency of their glass products but also significantly enhanced the safety and well-being of their workforce.

The integration of this cutting-edge technology is a testament to BA Glass’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the glass packaging industry. By embracing automation and technological advancements, the company is paving the way for a future where the glass production process is entirely self-driven, with minimal human intervention.

The implementation of the first IS machine in Europe with swabbing robots on both the blow and blank sides represents a significant milestone in BA Glass’s journey towards their “lights-out” vision. This innovative solution, developed in collaboration with NOVAXION, has the potential to redefine the industry standards and set a new benchmark for operational efficiency and process stability.

As the glass packaging industry continues to evolve, BA Glass’s pioneering efforts serve as a shining example of what can be achieved through strategic partnerships, technological advancements, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. With this groundbreaking development, the company has firmly positioned itself as a leader in the field, poised to inspire and influence the industry’s future.

Source:BA Glass with additional information added by GlassBalkan

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