People Behind the Technology: How Lightware Invests in Wellbeing, Growth and Belonging
Lightware shares the second release in its ESG communications series. Following the first piece, which focused on the company's environmental performance, this release turns to the social dimension of Lightware's 2024 - 2025 Sustainability Report.
A Workplace Built on Inclusion and Respect
In 2024, Lightware joined the international Diversity Charter, reinforcing its commitment to equal opportunity. The company also received the “Lovable Workplaces” recognition in both 2024 and 2025, acknowledging its workplace culture. While female managers remain underrepresented in the technology industry, at Lightware women are overrepresented in managerial positions relative to their overall share of the workforce. Lightware demonstrates its commitment not only by becoming a Member of the EU Diversity Charter in Hungary, but also through aligned actions: support for working parents is a tangible expression of these values. A particularly notable outcome: 100% of mothers returning from maternity leave remained with the company for at least a further 12 months.
Lightware employed more than 400 people globally at the end of 2025, with a consistent emphasis on creating an inclusive and supportive environment for all. The company applies zero tolerance for discrimination and harassment in any form, with internal policies prohibiting any differential treatment based on race, gender, religion, sexual orientation, or any other personal characteristic.
Lightware systems operate with a power consumption of only 10–12 watts under the same conditions. In a larger system, this can result in an annual energy cost saving of up to 15,000 euros. Energy efficiency is therefore not only an environmental benefit, but also a clear economic advantage.
Built-in software platforms such as Event Manager and the LARA room automation system enable occupancy-based control of meeting spaces, automatically switching off devices in unoccupied rooms. Modularity further extends the sustainability of each product: in 2025, approximately 96% of the 980 units returned for service were successfully repaired and returned to active use reducing waste and extending product lifetime.
Learning, Growth, and Recognition
Training and development are central to Lightware's approach to employee engagement. Beyond mandatory safety and compliance training, employees can pursue development aligned with their individual interests and roles.
Lightware’s recognition system includes a distinctive element that enables employees to acknowledge and reward one another’s contributions, complementing formal performance evaluation. In addition, Lightware offers several public, ad hoc reward categories throughout the year - such as immediate rewards, managerial rewards, and senate rewards - allowing colleagues to openly recognise and reward each other’s outstanding contributions in a timely and democratic manner. since 2022 to monitor component compliance with REACH and RoHS requirements and manage end-of-life risks. Suppliers are held to a Code of Conduct covering environmental impact, resource efficiency, and waste management, with a formal ESG-based supplier assessment framework currently in development.
Wellbeing as a Business Priority
Lightware's wellbeing offering reflects a genuine commitment to work-life balance. Flexible working schedules and home office options are available to tenured employees. Physical health is supported, and the company has also launched a structured Workplace Mental Health Programme, encompassing regular articles, lectures on topics such as burnout and stress management, workshops, and access to individual counselling.
Beyond the workplace, Lightware actively encourages its employees to carry the company's values into the wider community through volunteering initiatives. Colleagues have come together to paint a local homeless shelter, participated in national campaigns like litter collection or school supplies donation, and each Christmas the team organises a gift collection for a children's home. – says Gergely Vida CEO of Lightware.
Values-Based Governance
Responsible corporate governance is one of the foundations of Lightware’s sustainability efforts. The company integrates ESG considerations into both its strategic decision-making and day-to-day operations, while placing strong emphasis on transparency, ethical business conduct, and compliance with applicable laws and regulations.
"Our people are the foundation of everything we achieve at Lightware - our culture, our innovation, and our reputation. Investing in their wellbeing, growth, and sense of belonging is not a gesture; it is a responsibility we take seriously every single day.” – says Gergely Vida CEO of Lightware.
The report also reflects openly on the challenges of organisational change and the need to strengthen communication, predictability and employee involvement.
Lightware's full 2024–2025 Sustainability Report, covering environmental, social, and governance performance in detail, is available to download.