Volkswagen wins DAX30 Reputation Award

SAP ranked 2nd, Post and Bayer third runners up

Vienna. February 20, 2015 – Germany’s Volkswagen Group has the best media image amongst the largest German listed companies listed in the DAX30. Thus Volkswagen is the winner of the DAX30 Reputation Award based on the scientific media analysis conducted by Swiss based Media Tenor International AG. The Award is presented at the 15^th Agenda-Setting-Conference in Vienna, February 19 - 21.

Media Tenor analysts have analyzed 19,330 stories on DAX30 companies in 50 international print, radio and TV news. Twelve criteria have been employed to assess the corporate image, starting with overall visibility, tone of coverage, diversity of topics and ranging to the image of the CEO and visibility on important issues like innovation and sustainability. According to Media Tenor's founder and CEO, Volkswagen has taken an agenda-setting role in the field of corporate sustainability. 

A positive and strong reputation on social responsibility is of utmost importance in a globalized economy as it protects a company’s license to operate. High operational standards and credible and effective communication are both necessary to shape a company’s perception. In terms of technology and communication Volkswagen presented lighthouse projects like the 1- and 3- liter cars more than a decade ago before going mainstream with sustainability issues in the organization. A favorable perception on workforce issues such as job security, wages, training and diversity has also added to a favorable image of Volkswagen on responsibility.

The runner-up in this year’s analysis is SAP. The software powerhouse has successfully managed to communicate on innovation and overcoming old stereotypes. SAP furthermore managed to attract sufficient coverage on its prospects which is necessary to build up shareholder and client trust. Bayer and Deutsche Post ranked third, achieving an outstanding image as well. Deutsche Post – like Volkswagen – managed to attract significant coverage on sustainability and responsibility issues which is crucial in the international logistic business. Bayer, on the other hand, scored well in terms of overall perception and attracting strong coverage on innovation in the pharmaceutical business.

For over 20 years Media Tenor's mission has been to contribute to objective, diverse and newsworthy news by bringing together the diverse parties who both impact and are affected by the news. Media Tenor's global research projects include analyses of election campaigns, investor relations, public diplomacy, corporate communications and other topics critical to news makers and news audiences. The annual Agenda Setting Conference brings together these diverse constituencies for data-driven workshops, panels, case studies and keynote speeches.

Contact:

Dr. Tobias Thomas, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., +41 79 255 86 86