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Company news·10 Apr 2025
Company news
9 Apr 2025
Strengthening the Backbone of Protective Textiles: Insights from Darinka Radić, Managing Director of Mehler Protection Zrenjanin
ZRENJANIN, SERBIA (09.04.2025)
In our latest interview, we spoke with Darinka Radić, Managing Director of Mehler Protection Zrenjanin, about the facility’s remarkable growth, its strategic role within Mehler Systems, and where it’s headed in the years to come. From significant production expansion to advances in automation, workforce development, and sustainability, Darinka shares what it takes to meet rising global demand in a fast-evolving industry.
Mehler Protection Zrenjanin, officially Mehler Protective System d.o.o., is the Serbian production site of the Mehler Protection brand within the Mehler Systems Group. Specialising in high-quality protective textiles, this facility serves military, police, and security forces worldwide. As one of three key Mehler Protection sites—alongside Fulda and Königslutter—it plays a vital role in Mehler Systems’ vertically integrated production network.
Expanding the Foundations for Future Growth
“Over the years, Mehler Protection Zrenjanin has experienced exceptional growth,” says Radić. One of the most notable milestones is the completion of a new 6,200 m² production hall, which significantly expands the company’s capabilities. This modern space incorporates not only advanced production lines, but also houses dedicated training facilities, technical departments, and a modern showroom.
In parallel with the new hall, the total land and workspace of the facility grew from 22,000 m² to 49,000 m²—a clear indicator of the company’s upward trajectory. “The expansion itself allows us to accelerate workflows, improve product quality, and foster future innovation,” Radić says.
Production Powerhouse: Capacity and Automation
A modern, automated machinery park now supports a production capacity of over 3 million minutes per month. This is managed through a robust production planning system, advanced tracking technologies, and a skilled workforce. “Continuous monitoring and interdepartmental collaboration help us identify and address potential issues early, ensuring both efficiency and quality,” Radić adds.
Automation has transformed production—streamlining workflows, minimising human error, and boosting speed and consistency. “This has allowed us to respond more flexibly to market demands while maintaining the highest quality standards,” she notes.
Empowering the Workforce
The company’s steady expansion has gone hand-in-hand with significant growth in its workforce—from 206 employees in 2019 to 760 by early 2025. This growth has been driven by sustainable hiring, ongoing investment in employee development, and close cooperation with local education institutions through dual training programs.
The opening of a training center was a pivotal step. “By investing in the training center and nurturing new staff, we’re ensuring long-term sustainability,” Radić explains. “We’re also reviving the seamstress course for industrial machinery and partnering with textile schools because this is a long-term commitment.”
The company’s focus on fostering a motivating work environment has played a vital role in its success.
"Productivity and employee satisfaction go hand in hand," she says. "When you invest in the people behind the process, you invest in performance.”
Facing Industry Challenges Head-On
“The protective textile industry is evolving quickly,” says Radić. “There’s growing demand for advanced materials, companies face rising material costs, constant pressure to innovate, and an urgent need to meet global sustainability standards.”
To stay ahead, Mehler Protection Zrenjanin is embracing energy optimisation, waste reduction, and responsible sourcing. Automation and digital monitoring systems are also being leveraged to improve both productivity and environmental responsibility. Additionally, managing supply chain stability and raw material availability remains a key focus.
Strategic Role Within Mehler Systems
As a key production hub, Mehler Protection Zrenjanin supports the broader Mehler Systems strategy by ensuring the availability of high-quality textile components that are vital for the Group’s ballistic and tactical solutions.
“When you have strong, stable production within the Group—capable of quick turnaround times and top-tier quality—it gives all of us a competitive edge,” Radić explains. The facility not only services current needs but is strategically positioned to support future product innovations across Mehler Systems.
Its vertically integrated model and automation-driven approach also reduce reliance on external suppliers and improve responsiveness—making the Zrenjanin site a cornerstone of Mehler Systems’ long-term resilience.
Outlook: Scalable, Sustainable, Strategic
2023 marked the company’s most successful financial year to date. The outlook for 2025 and beyond is ambitious: expand production capacity, further automate, and continue strengthening workforce development.
"A strong production base isn’t just a benefit—it’s essential," says Radić. "Our work in Zrenjanin is about long-term stability and delivering on Mehler Systems’ promise of excellence."
Press Release
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