An Unwavering Advocate for a Better World
Office furniture manufacturer Wilkhahn’s longstanding press officer and head of corporate communications passed away on March 18, 2026. Burkhard Remmers spent over 30 years defining the family-run company’s public face. His loss will be felt deeply, not just at the headquarters in Eimbeckhausen, Germany, but throughout the international furniture sector too.
Born in Augsburg, Bavaria, Burkhard followed a German studies, history, and educational sciences program at a college in his hometown. After graduating, he didn’t go into teaching as originally planned, but joined the marketing department of furniture manufacturer USM in Bühl, Baden.
He switched to Wilkhahn in 1995, where he spearheaded the company’s external and internal communications tirelessly and with strategic vision. Burkhard considered his job a vocation. Embracing the principles of the Ulm School, he played a huge part in successfully championing the brand’s core themes of sustainability, design made in Germany and dynamic sitting. His profound expertise made him a respected partner of journalists, a sought-after speaker and an accomplished author. He earnt a reputation that stretched way beyond the furniture industry and Germany. Above all, it was his spirit that focused on human agency, characterized by tolerance, warmth and an unwavering belief in the inherent good, that mesmerized those who crossed his path. As a fascinating speaker, accomplished writer, or skilled conversationalist, he identified with his role like few others in the industry and became a brand all of his own. True to these values, his dedication extended way beyond the office. He was a hands-on member of organizations like Werkbund Nord and launched his own development initiatives in Africa.
Dr. Jochen Hahne, chairman of the supervisory board and longstanding Wilkhahn CEO comments: “Burkhard Remmers played a key role in developing our company over the years. Our goal is to keep his enthusiasm and drive alive in the future.”
Burkhard Remmers passed at the way-too-young age of 66 after a serious illness.