Broadband expansion based on resilient fibre optic networks forms an important foundation for developing digitalisation, says Alexander Mager at Folan in an eco member interview.
Mr Mager, could you please give us a brief introduction to your company, Folan GmbH?
Folan has been providing solutions for data & telecommunication infrastructure for over 30 years. Originally, a manufacturer of optical connectors, Folan is now one of the industry’s leading providers of passive components for fibre optic networks. Folan offers solutions for broadband expansion, secure data centre operations, smart cities and industrial applications. In the “Very High Speed France” broadband initiative, Folan collaborated with local authorities to accelerate the rollout of the fibre network in France. Today, Folan delivers its innovative solutions throughout Europe, Asia, the Middle East and Africa.
Which topics of digitalisation are particularly important to you?
In the digitalisation of the 21st century, we are focusing on 5 key topics: These are AI, blockchain technology, 5G networks, cloud computing and, of course, the necessary broadband expansion.
What are the special challenges in your sector at the moment and how are you working on them?
As in many other sectors, the skills shortage is a significant concern in this industry. Additionally, many companies are struggling with supply chain issues. Folan operates its own production and warehousing facilities in Europe, besides production and warehousing in China. This enables us to respond to customer needs even at short notice.
How do you expect your membership in the eco Association to support you in this regard?
Folan is active not only in the field of telecommunications but also in equipping data centres and smart city applications. This was one of the reasons why we chose the eco Association, as all these areas are also addressed here and there are corresponding working groups that actively contribute to shaping the future in each of these areas.
What opportunities does digitalisation offer us in the future?
Digitalisation will open up many new opportunities in the future. Particularly, companies can automate their processes and thus make them more efficient. This saves time and costs and increases competitiveness. By using digital technologies, companies can better understand their customers and address them in a more targeted manner. This leads to increased customer satisfaction and loyalty. Data rates and required latencies will increase many times over, and this will require resilient fibre networks. Folan is well-prepared for this and is looking forward to the challenges.
Mr Mager, thank you very much for the interview!
Alexander Mager joined Folan as Key Account Manager in May 2023. Prior to joining Folan, he worked for more than 25 years in product management, business development, marketing and sales at companies such as Schneider Electric, General Electric and Eaton Electric.
