A statement on the Fakuma international trade fair for plastics processing was presented by Christopher Vitz, Regional President Europe Central at Engel. In his comments, he referred to the importance of the anniversary edition of the event, the historical role of the trade fair for the development of the industry and the current challenges faced by the plastics processing sector in Europe.
Vitz emphasised that Fakuma is celebrating its 30th anniversary, which in his view translates into progress, partnership and innovation since 1981 in an industry that relies on continuous technological development, both within its own field and in related industrial sectors. From Engel's perspective, the trade fair has always been an important European platform, a place not only for presenting plastics processing technologies but also a space for jointly advancing them in dialogue with partners and customers. In his statement, Vitz also referred to the structural changes that have taken place in plastics processing over more than four decades and to the role of Fakuma as a forum where these changes are discussed and materialise in the form of investment decisions and production solutions.
From linear economy to circular economy
With regard to the evolution of the industry, Vitz pointed to the far reaching transformation that has taken place since the early 1980s. He highlighted the shift from the traditional linear economic model to the circular economy concept, as well as the change in the nature of processes towards higher energy efficiency.
As he underlined, during this period the industry has moved from energy intensive processes to highly efficient all electric systems and from manual operations to highly digitalised, networked production environments. Among the topics that currently dominate the agenda of processing companies, Vitz listed the circular economy, recyclability, energy efficiency and digitalisation, as well as the public image of plastics and the growing demand for qualified personnel.
Fakuma as a platform for partnership-based dialogue
In his statement, Vitz drew attention to the specific character of Fakuma from Engel's perspective. He stated that it is a place where participants meet on an equal footing, partnerships are forged and decisions are formulated that shape production strategies for years to come.
He stressed that the informal atmosphere of the event is a distinguishing feature of Fakuma compared to other trade fairs. According to Vitz, this atmosphere supports open exchange of views and joint search for technological solutions that respond to the current needs of the plastics processing industry.
The role of the trade fair in challenging economic conditions
Vitz noted that especially in economically challenging times the significance of Fakuma as a meeting place for the industry becomes even more evident. He pointed out that investment decisions now have to be made more carefully than before and that the trade fair offers suitable conditions for this.
In his opinion, Fakuma provides participants with direct access to real applications, real technology and direct comparability of the solutions available on the market. Such an environment is intended to support companies in making informed decisions on modernising their machinery, implementing new processing technologies and adapting processes to the requirements of energy efficiency and the circular economy.
Engel's experience and expectations for the anniversary edition
Assessing Engel's participation in Fakuma so far, Vitz pointed to many positive experiences. These include intensive exchange of ideas, implementation of ambitious projects and a high level of openness among event participants to new approaches and technological concepts.
Vitz emphasised that the company expects the anniversary edition of the trade fair in 2026 to once again provide strong impetus for the entire plastics industry. He stated that Engel intends to actively use this platform as an opportunity, a stage and a driving force for innovation and sustainable progress.
In his statement, Vitz also highlighted the importance of an exchange of views between participants on equal terms. Summarising his remarks, he stated that for the 30th time Fakuma will demonstrate what is possible when an industry works together.
Christopher Vitz, Regional President ECE at ENGEL
