When August arrives at ZES ZIMMER, bringing with it the challenging summer temperatures in Germany, it also marks the time for employees to gear up for the annual integrative "Zimmersmühlenlauf" in Oberursel, an event deeply ingrained in our company culture. This year was no different, as on August 29th, at 6:00 PM, the starting signal was given for the 1.5 km loop along Zimmersmühlenweg, just a stone's throw away from the ZES ZIMMER headquarters. Participants could choose to complete the loop as an integration run (1 lap), walking (2 laps), or the main run (4 laps), with a focus on bringing together people with and without disabilities.
For well over a decade, as a company based in Oberursel, we have proudly supported this event, organized by the Oberurseler Werkstätten, as one of the main sponsors. While not all of our employees can participate in the run every year, we are always represented by a fantastic team, both in the main run and the walking event. The start and finish are directly in front of the Oberurseler Werkstätten, who kick off the integrative run at 6:00 PM with due ceremony. This integrative round is of utmost importance, as it allows physically or mentally challenged individuals to participate in the run, deserving undivided attention and maximum applause. Participants, young and old, are supported as needed by the caring staff of the Werkstätten, as well as friends and family. It brings us great joy to witness the enthusiasm and satisfaction, as well as the beaming faces of the participants.
Following the opening round, the remaining over 2,000 participants, including runners from private individuals, companies, sports clubs, and more, line up at the starting line. Our participating employees from all areas such as manufacturing, operations, sales, development, and management put their endurance, footwear, and teamwork to the test. Our participants were easily recognizable, either supporting from the sidelines or running on the course in ZES ZIMMER jerseys in our corporate blue.
Coming together as a company after work for such a great event and cause adds a cherry on top of the usual workday, fostering team spirit and community. After the run, it was time to replenish the energy reserves depleted by the nearly 30-degree temperatures. The Oberurseler Werkstätten not only offered various delicacies and drinks but also provided additional entertainment with performances from in-house music bands. The doors to the Werkstätten were also open to everyone, offering insights into the facilities and workplaces of the employees.
All in all, as every year, it was an absolutely fantastic gathering, celebrating diversity and integration, and above all, increasing awareness and appreciation for the Oberurseler Werkstätten and their employees, who, one must admit, are not always top of mind in our often hectic and planned-out daily lives. We thank the Oberurseler Werkstätten, co-organizers, other sponsors, and all participants, and we are already looking forward to participating in 2025.
What exactly is behind the integrative Zimmersmühlenlauf? What do the Oberurseler Werkstätten do? What great products and services do the Werkstätten offer?
All these questions are answered on the race's website and the Oberurseler Werkstätten website:
https://zimmersmuehlenlauf.de/
https://www.o-wfb.de/