Ortlieb and Turis
Delivering B2B eCommerce efficiency for +30 global distribution partners
Ortlieb’s journey from a modest beginning in 1982, with products born from a sewing machine and a vision for nearly waterproof gear, is a story of evolution and innovation. Initially relying on taped seams to keep water out, the brand soon recognized the need for a more robust solution to meet the rigorous demands of outdoor use. In a crucial move in 1984, Ortlieb integrated high-frequency welding technology, a change that revolutionized their product waterproofing standards and redefined industry expectations.
As Ortlieb expanded, the necessity to modernize its B2B operations became apparent, seeking digital solutions that matched their innovative product line. The transition to Turis’s digital platform marked a significant milestone, enhancing their B2B processes and enabling efficient, scalable operations. This case study delves into how ORTLIEB harnessed Turis’s technology to streamline their business practices, reflecting their commitment to innovation not just in products but also in how they do business.
Ortlieb Numbers
+500
Individual products
+300
Employees
1982
Year of foundation
+30
Distribution partners around the world
Who is Ortlieb?
Ortlieb Sportartikel GmbH, founded by Hartmut Ortlieb in Nuremberg, Germany, started on its journey to reshape outdoor gear by addressing a gap in the market: the need for truly waterproof equipment. Hartmut’s creativity led him to craft the company’s first bike panniers from truck tarps on his mother’s sewing machine, a solution born out of necessity during his excursions with friends.
The company’s relocation in 1997 to Heilsbronn marked a new chapter, facilitating growth and innovation. With a workforce of over 300 dedicated employees, Ortlieb has expanded its portfolio to include more than 500 unique products, all underpinned by a commitment to quality and sustainability.
Ortlieb’s Mission
“We design and manufacture innovative waterproof products that enable our customers to better navigate their world,live out their dreams, and respect our planet every day.”
Ortlieb’s Sustainable Journey
Since 1982, Ortlieb has advocated for durable, eco-friendly products, integrating sustainability into their DNA well before it became trendy. They stand out for producing long-lasting gear, focusing on repairability, evident in their significant annual repairs. This approach advocates for waste reduction.
Ortlieb’s commitment extends beyond products to their operations, aiming for complete energy self-sufficiency at their Heilsbronn base and striving for transparency in their environmental impact. They prioritize local sourcing and eco-conscious packaging, demonstrating a holistic approach to sustainability.
Acknowledging the continuous path of improvement, Ortlieb remains transparent about their sustainability journey, inviting feedback and dialogue. Their ethos reflects a deep commitment to environmental responsibility, showing that true sustainability is integral to producing quality, enduring products. Ortlieb isn’t just creating gear; they’re setting industry benchmarks for sustainable practices, proving that ethical operations can coexist with successful business.
The Secret to Ortlieb’s Waterproof Excellence
At the heart of Ortlieb’s “Made in Germany” reputation is their uncompromising approach to waterproof quality. Their secret? A meticulous selection of robust materials, cutting-edge bonding technologies, and reliable closure systems. Unlike standard sewn or glued products, Ortlieb utilizes high-frequency welding, a technique that ensures their gear stands up to the toughest outdoor conditions.
The materials chosen for Ortlieb products are tailored to their specific use, featuring high-grade polyester, nylon, and Cordura fabrics with single or double-sided coatings. These selections not only define the product’s aesthetic — with either a textile feel or the classic tarpaulin look — but also its waterproof integrity. Ortlieb’s coatings are engineered to surpass the waterproofing performance of typical outdoor equipment materials.
When it comes to sealing out water, Ortlieb sets the bar high. Their materials withstand the pressure of a 100,000 mm water column, a testament to their exceptional waterproof standards. The high-frequency welding process they employ is key to this achievement. By using high-frequency voltage, Ortlieb creates vibrations that heat and bond the materials internally, resulting in welded seams as robust as the fabric itself.