DAW Branded Regional Bus Becomes a Visible Symbol of Commitment to the Region

Ober-Ramstadt/Gerstungen, June 17, 2026. DAW SE, Germany’s leading manufacturer of paint and facade insulation systems, today officially unveiled a regional bus operated by transport provider Wartburg Mobil. Featuring a custom DAW design, the bus will now operate on regular routes throughout the Gerstungen area in Thuringia, increasing the visibility of DAW as a local employer and training provider in the region.

The Gerstungen site plays a key role within the DAW Group as a center for development, production, and logistics. Since 2017, it has also been home to DAW’s Technical Center for Facade Systems, which houses one of the industry’s most advanced testing facilities and serves as an important driver of innovation, product development, and quality assurance in the facade sector. The integration of the facade brand alsecco into the globally recognized Caparol brand on January 1, 2026, has further enhanced both the importance and visibility of the site.

Gerstungen: A Key Driver of Facade Innovation

“The Gerstungen site is a vital pillar of the DAW Group. Its expertise in facade systems and its strong logistics capabilities make it highly important for both our customers and our product portfolio. With our Facade Technical Center, we have built a strong foundation for innovation and quality, while the Caparol brand allows us to showcase these strengths even more effectively,” said Georg Blümel, Head of Professional Business Germany.

The significance of the Gerstungen site is also reflected in its strong commitment to developing future talent. DAW actively trains skilled professionals for its own workforce requirements and creates tangible career opportunities for young people in the region.

“We see ourselves as a dedicated training and development site and continue to invest in local talent and, therefore, in the future of our operations. Our goal is not only to provide excellent vocational training but also to offer long-term career prospects. Maintaining strong local roots is particularly important to us. Our new regional bus is a visible symbol of that commitment—it represents our connection to the region and to the people who live and work here,” explained Plant Manager Oliver Kohlhaas.

Investing in Local Talent: Seven New Apprenticeship Opportunities Available

Currently, six apprentices are training at the Gerstungen site in technical professions and dual-study programs. Beginning August 1, 2026, DAW will offer an additional seven apprenticeship positions in the fields of machine and plant operation as well as warehouse logistics.

From a talent acquisition perspective, local training initiatives are a key element of DAW’s long-term workforce strategy.

“Particularly in rural areas, it is essential for employers to be visible and accessible. Today’s bus unveiling demonstrates our commitment to the region. This also means creating opportunities for the next generation through apprenticeships, dual-study programs, and clear career development paths,” said Bianca Willms, Head of Talent Acquisition & Retention at DAW.

DAW SE employs approximately 6,000 people worldwide across 50 countries and markets. In Germany, the company operates seven locations with around 2,300 employees. Approximately 220 people work at the Gerstungen site.