EFQM - European Foundation for Quality Management

The European Foundation for Quality Management EFQM, was founded in October 1989 when the CEO/Presidents of 67 European companies subscribed to our Policy Document and declared their commitment to achieving EFQM mission and vision.

The Foundation set up a team of experts, from industry and academia, to develop the EFQM Excellence Model, a holistic framework than can be applied to any organisation, regardless of size or sector.This was first used to support the assessment of organisations in the European Quality Award in 1992.

Over the last 25 years, we have seen many changes.The Model has adapted and evolved over time to reflect changes in the global market place.Hundreds of organisations, from both the public and private sector, have participated in the EFQM Excellence Awards, including Robert Bosch, BMW, VW, Xerox, Ricoh, Grundfos, Philips, EDF, as well as small less known organisations.

One thing that has not changed is our objective: to increase the competitiveness of European organisations and support the sustainable development of the European economies.  We remain an independent, not-for-profit foundation; committed to supporting our Members in their journey towards excellence. While we focus on Europe, we have a global reach and welcome the opportunity to support all organisations.