Targeted Expansion of the Workforce.
The implementation of Wincor Nixdorf’s corporate strategy and its success in generating forward momentum within the business arena are reflected in further increases in the size of the workforce – a solid basis for future growth. Overall, the number of employees rose by 850 to reach 7,787 worldwide as of September 30, compared with 6,937 employees at the end of fiscal 2004/2005

The main focus of this recruitment drive was outside of Germany, where the number of employees rose by 560 to 4,102 (previous year: 3,542). Many of these new jobs were created in Europe and the Asia/Pacific/Africa regions, where we have been able to establish a stronger basis for growth in our core business. As a result of this greater emphasis on international expansion, the gap between the size of our foreign and domestic workforces continued to widen in the period under review. At 3,685, the headcount in Germany increased by 290 year on year (previous year: 3,395).

If we examine the figures by business activity, the majority of new employees were appointed to strengthen our Services team. Most of the expansion in this area occurred at international level, although there were increases in Germany, too (Wincor Nixdorf Portavis GmbH; services for reverse vending machines). Some of the new appointments were made with the purpose of expanding our international manufacturing network. In addition, we strengthened our sales teams in growing markets, as well as further enhancing our HR structures in research and development.

Areas of Focus in Personnel Management.
A key goal of our personnel policy is to attract and retain highly skilled people. We therefore place great emphasis on recruiting such highly qualified employees. In expanding our workforce over the past fiscal year, we paid special attention to integrating into our organization new recruits and employees from companies acquired by Wincor Nixdorf.

One important issue addressed during the past fiscal year was the conversion of a diverse mix of retirement benefit plans, covering around 2,500 employees of Wincor Nixdorf International GmbH, into a new, uniform system. Working in close collaboration with employee representatives, we are pleased to report the success of this conversion. The new system takes into account changed demographic circumstances and establishes an appropriate link between the social contribution of the employer and its economic capabilities.

At the same time, the transfer of pension accruals to a pension fund (Contractual Trust Arrangement – CTA) provides even greater security for company retirement benefit plans.

As in the past, Wincor Nixdorf gave employees the opportunity to benefit from the Company’s successful performance in fiscal 2005/2006. In line with the overall remuneration policy, which is based on individual and company performance, staff members achieved above-average additional compensation at all levels.

The Board of Directors is aware of the fact that the Company’s success is dependent on the overall performance of Wincor Nixdorf employees worldwide. It is with this in mind that the Board wishes to express its gratitude and appreciation to the entire workforce for the outstanding level of commitment and high performance shown throughout the fiscal year.