A successful model on two wheels – environmentally friendly, healthy and economically attractive. The Müller-Guttenbrunn Group is committed to ecological responsibility and actively promotes sustainable forms of mobility. By participating in the Austria-wide ‘firmenradl’ initiative, the company offers its employees the opportunity to lease high-quality e-bikes at particularly favourable conditions – uncomplicated, tax-privileged and without any additional administrative work for the users.
The enthusiastic ‘bikers’ include not only Andreas Schartmüller, but also Gunther Panowitz, Managing Director of MGG Metran.
A good example of the successful implementation of this initiative is Andreas Schartmüller, an employee at MGG Metran in Kematen an der Ybbs. Since leasing an e-bike, not only has his journey to work changed fundamentally, but also his everyday life. He now covers his daily commute of around 20 kilometres by bike – and has already covered over 2,600 kilometres since October last year. He also prefers travelling on two wheels in his private life.
„An e-bike of this quality often costs over 4,000 euros. The attractive leasing model as part of “firmenradl” makes this investment feasible for many employees,“ emphasises Gunther Panowitz, Managing Director at MGG Metran and himself a committed e-bike user. ‘The bicycle has long since become a real alternative for many colleagues – especially in the warmer months.’
Around 60 employees at the Amstetten and Kematen an der Ybbs sites are already taking advantage of the programme. The increasing demand clearly shows that the model is convincing. Leasing is organised directly by the employer in cooperation with regional specialist dealers. The monthly leasing instalment is deducted via a tax-privileged salary conversion. There are no additional costs for employers or employees.
In order to create optimal conditions for bicycle use, special infrastructure has been set up at the company locations. This includes covered bicycle parking spaces with charging facilities for e-bikes and integrated compressors for tyre pressure monitoring. This makes the switch to cycling not only ecologically sensible, but also convenient.
Well equipped is a matter of course for the enthusiastic cyclists. In addition to the helmet, the sophisticated technology of their weather app is indispensable for them.
The personal environment also benefits: Inspired by her husband’s enthusiasm, Mrs. Schartmüller has also purchased an e-bike. Together they enjoy the new form of mobility, both on everyday journeys and when travelling, where the bikes are always with them.
‘As a teenager, I quickly gave up on bicycles and preferred motorbikes,’ says Andreas Schartmüller with a grin. ‘Today, I enjoy every ride and would never have thought that I would cover so many kilometres without emissions.’
Mr. Schartmüller relies on modern technology to ensure he arrives at his destination safe and dry: ‘A precise weather app is my constant companion, so I can plan my journeys perfectly.’
After work, more and more employees can be seen travelling home with a helmet and bike, including Managing Director Gunther Panowitz, who regularly pedals home himself. For many, the day does not end with the shortest route home, but often with a deliberate diversions – for the joy of exercise and fresh air.