Norbert Hentschel, Head of Sales APAC, Business Unit Nord-Lock at Nord-Lock Group has been awarded the Shanghai Magnolia Award, one of the city’s highest honors for foreign nationals. The award recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to Shanghai’s economic and social development.
Hentschel moved to Shanghai in 2012 and has since led Nord-Lock Group’s expansion in China. Under his leadership, the local team has grown from three employees to 36, and the company has opened two nationwide offices to support industries including rail, infrastructure, and heavy machinery.
“I am deeply honored to have received the Shanghai Magnolia Gold Award. This recognition reflects not only my personal journey in Shanghai, but also the dedication and support of the entire Nord-Lock China team that brought me here,” said Norbert Hentschel.
Founded in Sweden, in 1982, Nord-Lock Group develops bolting and engineering solutions used to secure critical applications across the globe. The company established its Shanghai subsidiary in 2012, and, in 2020, it was designated as the Nord-Lock Group’s multinational headquarters in China.
To support its growing local customer base, Nord-Lock Group opened a Center of Excellence in Shanghai’s Putuo District in 2023, integrating warehousing, logistics, and technical services. The Nord-Lock Group is also advancing localization of key products, including Superbolt, and Expander solutions, to better serve local customers with faster delivery, tailored solutions, and enhanced support. The growth of Nord-Lock China has also been strongly supported by Dony Hu, the General Manager of the company, whose leadership and commitment to localization strategy were vital to Nord-Lock Group's expansion.
Beyond business growth, Norbert has been a strong advocate for corporate social responsibility. Initiatives have included supporting the "Sunshine Home" program for children with intellectual disabilities, organizing pandemic relief donations during COVID-19, and leading beach clean-up activities in Malaysia in collaboration with Reef Check Malaysia.
“My sincere thanks to the Shanghai Municipal Government, our colleagues, and all partners who have contributed to this achievement, especially to Dony whose unwavering support and nomination were instrumental in me receiving this prestigious honor,” commented Norbert Hentschel. “I remain committed to strengthening our cooperation and to the continued success of both Shanghai and the Nord-Lock Group.”
About the Magnolia Award
Established in 1989 by the Shanghai Municipal Government, the award honors foreign nationals who have made outstanding contributions to the city’s economic development, community engagement, and international collaboration.
The Nord-Lock Group believes that no one should have to question the integrity of the mechanical systems that play such a critical role in our way of life. As a global leader in bolting solutions, we strengthen public and industrial infrastructures with high-quality, safe and innovative solutions that will change the face of modern living for decades to come.