Jena, September 10, 2026. Werner Systemgastronomie Jena has been awarded this year’s i-work corporate prize for its exemplary integration efforts. The award was presented by JenaWirtschaft during the International Business Lounge.
- Event: Presentation of the i-work Corporate Award 2026
- Award Winner: Werner Systemgastronomie Jena GmbH (Franchisee for McDonald’s)
- Organizer: JenaWirtschaft in cooperation with BARMER
- Date of Ceremony: 09/09/2026 at Scala Jena
Diversity as an integral part of everyday work
At Werner Systemgastronomie, which operates several restaurants in Jena and the surrounding area, international cooperation is part of daily life. Around 45 percent of the employees have an international background, with individuals from up to 14 nations working hand in hand in individual teams. To ensure this exchange is successful, the company relies on a comprehensive and practical support system.
This includes free German language courses, administrative assistance with government agencies, finding housing, or opening bank accounts, as well as providing furnished accommodation if needed. A structured onboarding process, designated contact persons, and a multilingual ombudsman office round off the services.
Structured support and mentorship
The company pays special attention to the support of international apprentices. Experienced colleagues accompany the apprentices through their daily routine as so-called “buddies.” An additional working day per month, specifically dedicated to learning and exam preparation, is intended to ensure academic success. HR Manager Romy Ast emphasizes the importance of being approachable beyond the workplace and openly addressing cultural differences.
For Managing Director Boris Werner, the success of this approach is reflected primarily in the long-term stability of the teams and the high recommendation rate by the employees themselves. This creates trust, loyalty, and a stable internal network.
Background: The i-work award and its significance for Jena
The i-work – Intercultural Corporate Award for Jena and the region – has been presented by the Jena Economic Development Agency (JenaWirtschaft) since 2017. It recognizes companies that successfully integrate international skilled workers and actively practice intercultural diversity in their daily operations. The patron of the competition is the Lord Mayor of Jena, Dr. Thomas Nitzsche.
For the business location of Jena, the award has high strategic relevance. In view of the shortage of skilled workers, the city is dependent on immigration from abroad. Initiatives like the i-work award make best-practice examples visible, promote cross-location exchange, and contribute to positioning Jena as an open-minded and sustainable place to live and work.
Ceremony program
This year’s ceremony took place on September 9, 2026, at the Scala. In addition to the winner, six other companies from Jena and the region had applied, including Accenture, Active Fiber Systems GmbH, Asklepios Fachklinikum Stadtroda, GÖPEL electronic GmbH, SOMAG AG, and VITROMED GmbH. As a token of appreciation, all participating companies received vouchers for intercultural workshops to further strengthen their welcoming culture.
Source:
Werner Systemgastronomie awarded with i-work 2026
Transparency note: This article was created automatically, editorially reviewed, and expanded with AI support.