Fakuma Roundtable: The Path to Elastic Growth!

The panel of experts speaking at the Fakuma roundtable discussion stated that common sense, insight, creativity, innovation, and greater industry engagement constitute the secrets to a successful economic future.

“Building on Strengths” is the theme of the panel discussion, moderated by Markus Lüling, Managing Director of Kunststoff-Profi Verlag. The goal is to discuss economic conditions, environmental imperatives, and social challenges, while showing plastics processing companies the path to a successful economic future.

Speakers at the Fakuma roundtable discussion. Image provided by Fakuma 2026

Make full use of platforms and tools

The group’s conclusion is that the strengths of the European plastics industry are evident and impressive. Indeed, diversity, technology, recycling, and end-to-end process chains are well established. The panelists—including Eva Söhnlein, Managing Director of Geiger Group; Dr. Johannes Kilian, Vice President of Process and Application Technology at Engel Austria; Günther Klammer, Chief Technology Officer of Next Generation Holding; and Michael Weigelt, Managing Director of the Technical Plastic Products Association (TecPart)—highlighted further areas for action.

Söhnlein emphasizes that companies must showcase and clearly communicate their strengths, for example through effective platforms such as trade fairs. Kilian also highlights the importance of leveraging modern AI tools as resources to support process improvement and manage complexity.

Expand rather than restrict maneuvering space.

To achieve greater flexibility and efficiency, Weigelt stated that it is also worthwhile to reconsider overly strict tolerances and excessive dimensions. He emphasized that companies should make greater use of the support, expertise, and networks provided by industry associations, noting that active participation will help reduce bureaucratic and regulatory barriers. Weigelt pointed out that additional regulations and directives should be avoided, as such obstacles limit room for maneuver—although this assumes that companies actively leverage all available opportunities for co-determination.

Priority Recycling

Although the overall plastic recycling rate remains below expected levels, the group concluded that expertise in managing recycling processes and recycled materials has been steadily improving. The volume of recycled materials remains relatively low, and manufacturing products from recycled materials is more expensive than producing them from virgin raw materials. There are widespread reservations regarding the quality and design of recycled products. Nevertheless, the situation is gradually improving, for instance, through targeted development of components specifically designed for recycled materials.

Please be more enthusiastic about plastic.

Finally, the team members called for greater enthusiasm toward plastics and the plastics industry whenever possible. The shortage of young talent—including skilled technicians and university students—is hindering innovation and requires urgent attention. Klammer summarized how the company leverages its strengths: “Common sense, insight, and creativity—each in its proper place!”