People at ALPLA - Interview with Heinz Lehner

What is your favourite ALPLA plastic product?

Without question, the first bottle for the window cleaner CLU. I made it myself using a clothes peg and a knife, cutting the tube and inserting everything by hand into the closing machine. That was in 1958. I was 17 years old, and that first bottle I made myself has a special place in my heart. We produced a few thousand bottles a day.

Which professional experiences shaped you the most?

Above all, working with the employees and understanding their needs. It was especially meaningful that we employed many people with disabilities. They truly loved working with us.

Looking back at ALPLA’s history, what impressed you most?

The belief in the future and our down-to-earth attitude. Even when we already had more than 100 factories, we remained down-to-earth. But there was always the drive to keep moving forward, even in difficult times.

Were there moments when you doubted whether things could go on? What kept you going?

Yes, there were setbacks, especially financial ones, for example when machines had to be paid for. But the motivation was always the same: keep going, keep going. Pushing through and not losing faith was crucial.

Which principles have always been important to you, in life and in the company?

Honesty. Being honest has always paid off.

Is there an anecdote that, in your view, describes what ALPLA stands for?

In 1973, during the oil crisis, we suddenly had no material. Orders and machines were ready, but there was no raw material. In the end, we found a way via Japan. It was expensive, but we were able to continue. We always had to work hard, but our attitude was clear: always look ahead, never give up.

Which period would you most like to experience again?

The 1960s. I was young, there was an economic boom, fair pay and many new companies being founded. We had more orders than we could handle.

How did you experience the technological changes in the industry, such as the shift from PVC to PET?

The switch from PVC to PET was decisive. PVC had a strong smell and was difficult to process. With PET, we could produce bottles for the beverage industry. That was real boost for them and for us. Before that, we mainly worked with polyethylene, for example for cleaning product bottles such as CLU.

Looking back, what was the secret behind ALPLA’s success?

Belief in plastic and strong family unity.

Your brothers Alwin and Helmuth had very different personalities. How did you experience them?

Helmuth was an optimist. Even when things went wrong, he still believed in success. Alwin was a tireless worker. If something didn’t work technically, he would keep experimenting into the early hours of the morning. That combination was a great strength for the company.

If you had to describe your life and ALPLA in one word, what would it be?

Adventure. With ups and downs, but a wonderful adventure – and ultimately crowned with success.