Warenzeichenverband Edelstahl Rostfrei e.V.

With the patenting of stainless steel in 1912, a new material began its unbroken triumphal march to this day. The first proverbial highlight of its career was the roof cladding of the Chrysler Building in New York in 1929, the tallest building in the world at the time. Today, over 120 different types of stainless steel are in use worldwide. In view of the rapidly increasing volume of the material group, the need to reliably identify semi-finished products and end products made from stainless steel selected for specific applications became apparent early on. As early as 1958, the stainless steel trademark was therefore introduced to clearly identify products from quality-conscious manufacturers, processors and suppliers. Two years later, the Warenzeichenverband Edelstahl Rostfrei e.V. (WZV) was established as the awarding body for this quality seal. With over 1,000 predominantly medium-sized member companies, it is still the mouthpiece and service partner of those companies that use the internationally protected trademark as a seal for their quality promise. Indispensable orientation aid The focus of the award is on the correct choice of materials for the application and proper processing and finishing. The member companies commit themselves to this unparalleled quality campaign, which is an indispensable guide for discerning customers. Companies that are authorized to use the registered stainless steel trademark convey the secure feeling of a top supplier that places value on material quality and sustainable safety in processing. Consistent punishment of misuse The WZV therefore closely monitors the proper use of the quality seal. This is because the international reputation of the trademark has long since given rise to label piracy. The WZV consistently prevents such actions - if necessary, even by legal means. Companies and suppliers who advertise products with the quality seal without complying with the associated requirements are regularly warned. Only recently, the approval of a confusingly similar quality seal was objected to in China. Mediating supply and demand In view of the rapidly increasing demand for products made of high-quality stainless steel, efficient processors and distributors, the WZV is a much sought-after authority. Time and again, consumers seeking advice turn to the association to find competent producers or processors in their area. By setting up a sophisticated list of suppliers and services on the association's website in English and German, it brings supply and demand together. The companies listed here offer quality with a seal of approval: materials perfectly matched to the application, sustainable expertise in production and processing as well as active customer orientation through a voluntary commitment to quality. Image enhancement and knowledge transfer As an interface between industry, processors and users or consumers, the WZV is intensively involved in the proper dissemination of the quality seal. Its activities focus on further enhancing the image of the stainless steel trademark and the member companies that are committed to the statutory material and processing quality. A wide range of marketing activities support the members in their market presence. A broad-based communication campaign in the trade press and consumer media highlights the advantages of stainless steel with a quality seal. The aim is to win over quality-conscious manufacturers, processors and suppliers who have not yet been labeled. For the benefit of their customers, who can reliably recognize quality companies and products on the basis of the protected trademark. The WZV also secures their lead by consistently transferring knowledge into practice.