ANSMANN receives the TOP 100 seal for the fourth time

Four times in the TOP 100: Innovation as a systematic success factor

At ANSMANN, innovation is not a one-off project, but a structural component of the corporate strategy. This consistent focus was once again recognized in 2026 with the TOP 100 seal – for the fourth time in a row.

The competition honors medium-sized companies that not only promote innovation but also implement it in a measurably effective way. At ANSMANN, this is clearly reflected in the key figures: the 2025 Innovation Balance Sheet certifies an overall rating of A+, with top marks in the area of external orientation/open innovation in particular. In addition, the 2025 Progress Balance Sheet shows an exceptionally high innovation quotient (IQ) of 226 – a clear indication of above-average innovation momentum.

Customer benefit as a benchmark for innovation

All innovation activities focus on delivering tangible added value for users. The aim is to develop solutions that address real-world challenges in practice—for example, in terms of runtime, security, cost-effectiveness, and sustainability.

"For us, innovations are only successful when they measurably improve our customers' actual usage behavior—through longer service life, greater security, and lower overall costs."

explains Thilo Hack, CEO of ANSMANN AG.

"That's why we are investing specifically in data-based services throughout the entire product life cycle and in substantially extending the service life of battery packs."

Smart Battery: Data-based services throughout the life cycle

A key element of this strategy is the smart battery. Networked battery packs collect status and usage data via the Internet of Things (IoT) and cloud technologies. This data enables new, data-driven business models—from predictive maintenance and usage-based service packages to additional safety and efficiency features during operation.

For customers, this means one thing above all else: higher availability, less downtime, and better predictability. At the same time, maintenance and replacement costs can be significantly reduced—a decisive factor for the total cost of ownership.

Accucycle: Longer service life instead of quick replacement

In parallel with the digitization of battery systems, ANSMANN is working intensively on extending product life. Together with Chemnitz University of Technology, the ZIM project "Accucycle" is currently being implemented.

The aim is to develop an industry-ready process that allows individual cells in battery packs to be replaced in a targeted manner. This will significantly extend the service life of battery systems without having to replace entire packs. This conserves resources, reduces costs, and directly contributes to sustainable industrial applications.

Excellent processes thanks to AI and automation

In addition to product and service innovations, ANSMANN invests specifically in modern, high-performance processes. Generative AI and AI-supported image processing are used throughout the entire value chain.

Nearly fully automated invoice processing in accounting and automated quality checks in production increase speed, process reliability, and first-pass yield.

"We measure ourselves by impact, not intention. Early customer feedback, quick go/kill decisions, and AI-supported processes are key tools in our innovation work."

explains Markus Fürst, CEO of ANSMANN AG.

"The results are shorter time-to-market, higher quality in manufacturing, and services that measurably reduce downtime for customers."

Scientifically based award

The TOP 100 competition is evaluated by Nikolaus Franke's team at the Vienna University of Economics and Business. Over 100 criteria in five categories are examined, including innovation-promoting top management, innovation climate, processes and organization, open innovation, and innovation success.

ANSMANN impressed in particular with its early involvement of customers, structured management of its innovation portfolio, and close digital networking with external partners from science and industry.

Award ceremony at the German SME Summit

The award ceremony for the TOP 100 Innovators 2026 will take place on June 25, 2026, as part of the German SME Summit at the Congress Center Heidelberg. The mentor of the competition is former German President Christian Wulff.