Jürgen Siegwarth hands Ortlieb operational management to Martin Esslinger

After four years of serving as the CEO, Jürgen Siegwarth handed over the reins of Ortlieb Sportartikel GmbH to Martin Esslinger, effective as of the end of February.

When the Franconian bike and outdoor specialist initiated its realignment in 2017, with much passion and energy by the company founder and managing partner Hartmut Ortlieb, it was decisively shaped by Jürgen Siegwarth.

“In Jürgen, we gained an accomplished expert for Ortlieb in 2018, and from his knowledge and experience we have undoubtedly benefitted,” stated Hartmut Ortlieb. “Even this generational change in transitioning the position of CEO from Jürgen Siegwarth to Martin Esslinger is an example of Jürgen’s successful work in recent years.”

Back in February 2021, Martin Esslinger joined Hartmut Ortlieb and Jürgen Siegwarth in the company’s top tier management.

“Ortlieb is doing very well, but we still have major challenges ahead in terms of digitization and automation. Additionally, there is still a need to increase international brand desirability and profile as an authentically sustainable brand that has been producing durable, repairable and 100% waterproof and German-made outdoor equipment for 40 years,” continued the brand. “This is something we’re going to continue to tackle with the  entire team and with Martin as commercial director. Jürgen will of course continue to support us in an advisory capacity.”

The luggage brand’s goods are handled in the UK by outdoor and cycle distributor Lyon Equipment.