Joint initiative organized by business enterprises in Hesse/Germany

• Kassel-based enterprises are committed to diversity and respect in the lead up to the state parliament elections
• or trust in a free democratic order governed by the rule of law

Today on Friday, October 26th, numerous enterprises based in the Kassel region have set down a marker for openness to the world, diversity and tolerance. In large-sized newspaper adverts placed in the lead up to the state parliament elections in Hesse, these companies are declaring their avowal of the principles of respect and the rule of law, while launching an initiative entitled “Open to Diversity – Together against Exclusion!”. This initiative is sponsored by the HÜBNER Group, K+S Aktiengesellschaft, Kasseler Sparkasse, the Schaltbau Bode Group and the international gas and oil producer Wintershall.

“We are aware of the responsibility we bear for our employees, our reputation as a company and our region. The events of the past months – attacks on people who have become targets because of their origin, religion or commitment to democracy and diversity – are something we cannot tolerate in any shape or form,” states a joint press release about the initiative: “Our employees are as diverse and different as the jobs they do. They are crucial to the success of our companies – and what is even more important: All these colleagues are valuable members of our society!”

“As enterprises, we confirm our faith in the rule of law and in the free democratic constitutional structure. We are committed to values such as respect, tolerance and openness to dialogue. It is precisely these values we are expressing through our initiative and its motto, Open to Diversity – Together against Exclusion!”, explain the companies.

About K+S

K+S considers itself a customer-focused, independent minerals company for the Agriculture, Industry, Consumers, and Communities segments and wants to grow the EBITDA to € 3 billion by 2030. Our approximately 15,000 employees enable farmers to provide nutrition for the world, solutions that keep industries going, improve daily life for consumers and provide safety in the winter. We continually meet the growing demand for mineral products from production sites in Europe, North and South America as well as a worldwide sales network. We strive for sustainability because we are deeply committed to our responsibilities to people, the environment, the communities and the economy in the regions in which we operate. Learn more about K+S at www.k-plus-s.com.