Change in management at markilux and Schmitz-Werke

markilux and Schmitz-Werke are ushering in a generational change in leadership – a strong foundation for a bright future.

markilux is one of the leading premium manufacturers of solar protection solutions ‘Made in Germany’. For decades, the company has been developing and manufacturing high-quality awnings and fabric shading systems for domestic and commercial applications. With its high level of design and innovation expertise, as well as a strong Specialist dealer network, markilux sets the standard for quality and comfort across Europe.

Since 1 November 2025, the company has been gradually initiating a generational change in its management: after more than twenty years of successful service at markilux, Mr Klaus Wuchner, Managing Director of Sales & Marketing, will retire on 31 January 2026. Under his leadership, the company has developed into one of the best-known brands in the industry and has become an important employer and reliable partner.

Mr Ivo Scherkamp joined the management board of Schmitz-Werke GmbH + Co. KG on 1 November 2025. He is a shareholder and a member of the family and will lead Schmitz-Werke alongside the current Managing Director, Mr Torsten Honemann. Ivo Scherkamp (40) brings with him many years’ experience from various management positions in international business and, at the same time, embodies continuity and the traditional values of the family business.

On 1 February 2026, Mr Scherkamp will also take on the role of managing director at markilux GmbH + Co. KG alongside the managing director for Technology & Production, Mr Michael Gerling. “I am delighted to be taking on responsibility within a family business steeped in tradition. For decades, markilux has stood for quality, reliability and innovative strength – values that we bring to life day in, day out, together with our regional specialist dealers. My aim is to build on this strong foundation and steer our successful, collaborative partnership into the future,” says the future Managing Director, outlining his strategic vision.

With this planned change in leadership, Schmitz-Werke/markilux is sending a clear signal of continuity and long-term stability. The transition will take place gradually and in close consultation with the existing management team: Mr Torsten Honemann as Managing Director of Schmitz-Werke and, for markilux, Mr Michael Gerling as Managing Director of Technology & Production. To ensure stability and the seamless, successful continuation of business operations, the transition in day-to-day operations will be managed by familiar faces: Jan Kattenbeck, Sales Manager at markilux, and Ms Christiane Berning, Head of Marketing & Business Development. The combination of long-standing experience and fresh impetus forms the basis for sustainable further development. In this way, the group remains committed to its values and roots, whilst at the same time seizing opportunities to actively shape innovation and progress.

Change of leadership at markilux. Ivo Scherkamp, Michael Gerling, Klaus Wuchner (from left to right).

Please credit the source when reproducing: Photo: markilux.

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