When vision comes to life, a journey with the Club of Visionaries
There are trips that inform and there are trips that trigger something. The Club of Visionaries event trip initiated by Hoya clearly belonged to the second category. Two days that went far beyond a classic company program were characterized by high-tech, in-depth exchange, Japanese culture and moments that will stay with you.
As soon as we arrived in Düsseldorf, it was clear that this trip was following a different rhythm. Over lunch together at the Ramshof country estate, nestled in a peaceful, almost decelerating landscape, the first conversations began. Collegial, open, curious. Strangers became conversation partners, conversation partners became companions.
The afternoon took the participants to a place that is otherwise rarely seen, but where they can experience the results of their work every day: Hoya's high-tech production facility in Mönchengladbach. Here it became tangible what Hoya is all about: uncompromising precision, technological innovation and a deep appreciation of craftsmanship excellence. A particular highlight was the presentation of the new Hoyalux iD MySense lens by Product Manager Patrick Bartz. An innovation that goes far beyond technical performance data because it focuses on what really matters: people and their visual comfort.
This insight was complemented by the presentation of the latest Huvitz devices from the DAO world, which impressively demonstrated how diagnostics, precision and user-friendliness merge into a seamless overall experience.
After so much input, there was deliberate space to relax. At the elegant Hotel Savoy in Cologne, the impressions could sink in, thoughts could be sorted and discussions deepened or simply a moment of peace and quiet could be enjoyed. The evening took the group to the renowned Japanese restaurant Zen. A culinary experience at the highest level, aesthetic and precise. Just like Japanese culture itself.
Between finely tuned aromas and perfect presentation, conversations with depth emerged. Personal, open, connecting. Exchange became trust.
On the second day, Rainer Burkard, Global Marketing Manager at Hoya, provided strong impetus with his global perspective. Under the motto „Thoughtful Innovation. Dedicated Care. Thorough Craftsmanship“, he opened up the view of Hoya's global vision and made it clear that sustainable success does not come from trends, but from attitude, partnership and consistency. It was an exchange at eye level that not only conveyed perspectives, but also inspired people to reflect on their own values.
A conscious change of perspective followed at the Museum Ludwig with a visit to the major Yayoi Kusama exhibition. The iconic works of the Japanese artist opened up a world full of admiration, depth and infinity. A quiet, almost meditative moment that showed the power visions can have if you give them space.
Finally, a small, symbolic challenge awaited: 533 steps up to the viewing platform of Cologne Cathedral. Once at the top, not only did the view over the city open up, but also a shared feeling of cohesion, lightness and inspiration. We had experienced something together and that is exactly what connects us. The trip slowly came to an end with a final lunch and many conversations before heading back to Zurich.
What remained were not only new impulses, but above all a feeling of being part of a network that shares values, lives visions and connects people.
The Club of Visionaries has shown how powerful it is to consciously invest time in exchange, inspiration and genuine experience. Hoya has succeeded in creating a journey that not only informs, but also touches. And that is precisely why it will have a lasting effect.
