Leading German heating systems manufacturer Stiebel Eltron won top honours for innovation in the electrical appliances category, following a survey conducted on behalf of Deutschland Test and Focus Money.

The businesses were classified by sector for a fair comparison and a comprehensive evaluation of several million consumer reviews was carried out. Posts on social media about the 5,000 largest German companies were evaluated from January to December 2016 with the focus being on statements about a company’s innovation, investment, research and development, new products and technology.

The businesses in first place set the benchmark at 100 points. In addition to Stiebel Eltron, brands such as BMW, Amazon, IKEA and Adidas set the benchmark in other sector rankings.

Commenting on Stiebel Eltron winning the ‘2017 Innovation Prize’, Dr Nicholas Matten, managing director for sales, marketing and finance said that the company’s primary objective was to develop sustainable solutions for their customers in the heating, ventilation and air-conditioning segment. They are especially pleased with the innovation prize as it’s based on their customers’ appreciation for their solutions.