Out & About in Europe with the CMF

Out & about in Europe with the CMF

The CMF chair and chief executive met with senior representatives from foundries, the supply industry and international associations at the International Foundry Forum in Dresden, Germany in September.

The ‘invitation only’ event is held every two years and brings together CEOs from around the world to discuss relevant issues affecting the global metal casting sector. This year over 250 CEOs took part in the International Foundry Forum, which was held in Dresden on the 23rd and 24th September 2016 and organised jointly by CAEF (The European Foundry Association) and CEMAFON (The European Foundry Equipment Suppliers Association).

As part of the occasion CMF chief executive Pam Murrell FICME and CMF chair Wendy Bennett FICME from Lost Wax Development Ltd also represented the UK at the board meeting of CAEF. Dr Murrell said: “It is important that CMF is a part of the event and is able to both represent our members’ needs and report back to them on the topical issues affecting our sector in other parts of the world. Our members need to be competitive and by highlighting what is happening in neighbouring European countries, Asia and the United States we can help them be aware of the wider picture.”

The programme dealt with the major challenges and opportunities facing the sector. Several speakers highlighted that despite the fact that there will be a change of both markets and regions as well as in materials and products, the need for castings will constantly grow in the future. A main theme for the Forum was digitalisation, additive manufacturing and new mobility. A number of senior representatives from OEMs were also present and gave their views on future casting procurement.

Wendy Bennett said she was surprised more UK foundry personnel weren’t present. “This is a great opportunity to meet with potential customers and colleagues from around the world and get a real feel for what is happening in the industry. You have to put yourself out there and network.”

Wendy also took the opportunity to question an automotive OEM on their payment terms. “Attending events like this gives you access to be able to ask some pertinent questions,” she said.