The dedicated politician and partner at RUMPF architekten + ingenieure in Andernach and Bendorf was particularly interested in the company’s history. Small and medium-sized companies that secure employment and training opportunities in the region on a long-term basis are of particular concern to Mechthild Heil. The Dr. Eckel GmbH was founded in 1994 by Dr Antje Eckel. Together with her husband, Dr Bernhard Eckel, she has established a global supplier of innovative feed additives and refining products for animal nutrition located in Niederzissen. Today, the medium-sized company holds a leading position in Germany.

Mechthild Heil (right) and Dr Antje Eckel (left)

„We are delighted to welcome Mrs Heil today and acquaint her with our activities “, Dr Antje Eckel pointed out. „Good relations between business and politics are important – for the companies, the politicians, but also for the people who live here. Because only with joint forces can we make a difference”.

With 26 highly-qualified employees (13 university graduates, 7 with doctoral degree) the Dr. Eckel GmbH has achieved a market share of about 20 per cent in the addressed market of German-speaking countries. In addition, Dr. Eckel continually expands its export business. Feed manufacturers from many countries on almost every continent are customers of the Dr. Eckel GmbH.

Mechthild Heil learned in her exchange with Antje Eckel that comprehensive service, high standards in quality management and consistent customer orientation are seen as successful recipes for the continuous growth of the company. Furthermore, Dr Antje Eckel feels her efforts and the successful path of her company confirmed by the distinction „entrepreneur of 2009“ by the Oskar Patzelt foundation in Germany.

Among the addressed issues was also the compatibility of the produced additives in the light of a heightened consumer awareness. Here Mrs Heil was informed that since its founding, Dr. Eckel has been committed to the abandonment of the then common antibiotic performance enhancers. During a tour of the new manufacturing plant, Mechthild Heil was very much impressed by the very modern layout of the new production facility in the industrial area “Brohltal East”. „We can be proud to have such innovative companies in our region“, ascertains the member of the Bundestag.

„This visit has been worthwhile“, both entrepreneurs agree. „ Dr. Eckel already has an exciting and impressive business history. And, I am sure, there is a lot more potential “, Mrs Heil added.