Freudenberg-NOK Named One of 'Metro Detroit's 101 Best and Brightest Companies to Work For'

PLYMOUTH, Mich., Sept. 25 -- For the second year in a row, the Michigan Business & Professional Association (MBPA) has recognized Freudenberg-NOK as one of Metro Detroit's 101 Brightest and Best Companies to Work For.

The award identifies companies that excel in human resources practices such as associate diversity, work-life balance, associate education and motivation, compensation and benefits, and community initiatives. Winners were selected based on responses to a questionnaire, a short essay and surveys of associates about company human resource practices.

"We are honored to be recognized by the MBPA, and most importantly by our associates, as one of the best and brightest companies to work for," said Sharon S. Wenzl, vice president of corporate relations. "This award is an indication of the extraordinary value Freudenberg-NOK places on its associates, as well as our dedication to implementing innovative human resource programs and benefits."

Freudenberg-NOK's innovative human resource offerings consist of programs that encourage associate involvement and teamwork. One program, Walk for Wellness, challenges and rewards associates to walk their way to a healthy lifestyle. Another program known as TANNER (Travel And Navigate New and Exciting Roads) allows young people who are children or grandchildren of Freudenberg-NOK associates to travel to any country where a Freudenberg facility is located -- for up to four weeks -- all expenses paid.

Also noteworthy is Growtth(R) (Get Rid Of Waste Through Team Harmony), Freudenberg-NOK's company-wide program which educates workers in lean and Six Sigma processes. In addition, Freudenberg-NOK offers associates other opportunities and advantages, such as charitable involvement, summer flex-time and tuition reimbursement.

Freudenberg-NOK will receive its award at a luncheon and ceremony on October 22 at the Troy Marriott.

Plymouth, Mich.-based Freudenberg-NOK is a leader in automotive sealing and vibration control products and a supplier to all automakers producing in North America as well as all major tier one chassis and drivetrain suppliers. Freudenberg-NOK is the American partner of the global Freudenberg and NOK Group, which has total annual sales of nearly $7 billion, worldwide automotive sales of approximately $4 billion and is one of the most globally balanced automotive suppliers.

Through a global network of facilities spanning 27 countries with some 25,000 automotive associates worldwide, the supplier group offers its automotive customers globally integrated products, including sealing packages for transmissions, engines, brakes, axles and steering, NVH (noise, vibration and harshness) components and packages, and all rubber, plastic and PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene) components for suspension, electrical and fuel systems. The global Freudenberg and NOK Group also offers an extensive portfolio of special precision seals for the aerospace, appliance, business machine, fluid power, marine, medical, off-highway equipment and recreational vehicle markets.

For more information, visit the Freudenberg-NOK web site at www.freudenberg-nok.com