Fashion brand: Seidensticker investor: "I don't see myself as a wrecking ball"

Silvia Bentzinger, the 50-year-old businesswoman, has taken over as the Geschäftsführerin of the traditional Bielefeld denim and blouse brand Seidensticker since 2020. When the search for new investors proved unsuccessful, she decided to invest her own money, now owning a 20% stake in the company. In an interview, Bentzinger explained why she sees Seidensticker as a good investment, how she will make decisions with the two existing shareholders Gerd-Oliver and Frank Seidensticker, and her plans for the company's future.

The new Geschäftsführerin emphasized that she is not a "trümmerfrau" (cleanup woman) but has become more resilient in dealing with difficult situations. She explained that the company's past years had weakened its capital base and that some potential investors were focused on short-term strategies rather than long-term growth. Bentzinger stated that she and her family prioritize securing the location of Bielefeld and the jobs, as well as establishing a sustainable and future-proof company.

Bentzinger highlighted that the family decided to take over the company themselves rather than finding an investor who aligns with their vision. She expressed the importance of maintaining their entrepreneurial control and continuing Seidensticker as a family business. When she entered the picture was when the search for a partner failed, and they decided to move forward independently.

Regarding her stance on Germany's standing, Bentzinger emphasized the country's potential and the need to strengthen its competitiveness, reduce bureaucracy, and promote innovation. She called on the government to take action, be responsible with taxpayers' money, and focus on creating wealth rather than redistributing it. She attributed her resilience to facing challenges head-on, specifically citing the Coronavirus pandemic and her experience as the Geschäftsführerin of Seidensticker during the lockdown.