Welcome by Dr. Andreas Kaufmann ENGLISH

Welcome

Dr Andreas Kaufmann is the majority shareholder of Leica Camera AG. Under his leadership, Leica Camera AG has returned to a path of success, and the expansion of Leitz Park in Wetzlar has established the town as a leading centre for the optical industry.

An article in « Der Zeit » in 2017 states:

«When Dr Kaufmann joined Leica as a co-owner in 2004, the company was effectively on its last legs. The management at the time regarded digital photography as a passing trend that would never reach the analogue luxury segment.” And further: “Under Kaufmann, Leica did manage to turn the corner into the digital age. At the same time, he set clear guidelines for his development department and focused on specific target groups: anyone spending up to 20,000 euros on a camera must have a reason for doing so. At Leica, that reason cannot be just the technology, Kaufmann realised. It is the brand. Ultimately, Kaufmann is successful because he does not think like a traditional manager. He is an enthusiast.”

He will share this enthusiasm with the participants in his welcome speech.