SML Launches a New Turret Winder for Cast Jumbo Rolls with a Diameter of up to 1,500 mm
SML’s brand-new turret winder W1300 comes fully equipped with powerful technical features and functions. Its ability to produce jumbo rolls with a mechanical diameter of 1,500 mm offers numerous benefits to manufacturers in downstream processes.
“Our new W1300 turret winder was designed for the winding of CPP, CPE, mono-oriented and barrier films of absolute premium quality. With winding speeds of up to 450 m/min and end film widths from 2,400 to 3,900 mm, the new winder boasts everything necessary to ensure high-volume production”, Alexander Bruckmüller, the Product Manager at SML, confirms.
Efficiency in subsequent processes
Thanks to the winder’s large mechanical roll diameter of 1,500 mm, the running times of the individual rolls can be extended quite significantly. Extending the production runs primarily leads to a boost in efficiency in subsequent processes, such as printing or metallising. The following example demonstrates quite clearly the tremendous amount of cast film contained in a jumbo roll of 1,500 mm: When cast film with a thickness of 25 µm is wound onto a roll with a diameter of 1,200 mm, this roll contains 45,000 running meters of film. A jumbo roll with a diameter of 1,500 mm has 70,000 running meters of the same film – this is an increase of more than 50 %!
Adjusting the hardness of the film roll
The W1300 winder can be adapted with ease to different production requirements. Two operational modes are available: Depending on the film, the winder either can work in gap mode or in contact mode. Before the film hits the contact roller, it runs over a continuously adjustable satellite roller, to control the air intake between the individual film layers and to adjust the hardness of the film roll. Winding is possible either with or without winding shafts. The inlet section of the winder is prepared for the installation of a post cooling roller.
Roll change with auxiliary contact rollers
Two different cross-cutting units are available for the winder W1300: One is a full-width twisting knife for thinner films and the second one is a flying knife for thicker films and oriented films. During a roll change, driven auxiliary contact rollers are engaged in order to keep the condition of the film at the roll in perfect condition up to the very last layer. A handling system is available both for shaftless winding and for winding with shafts. During shaftless operation, rolls can be also handled with an overhead crane.
Suitable for retrofits
The standalone nature of the winder makes it easy to install it on third-party cast film lines since it comes with its own control system and electrical components.
Tosca Doubles Down on German Investments for Retail Scalability
In order to meet the expanding demands of its retail clients throughout Central Europe, Tosca, a world pioneer in reusable packaging and pooling solutions, has announced a major expansion of its operations in Germany. In order to accommodate growing demand and client growth throughout the region, the company has made a strategic infrastructure investment by building a new service center in Salzkotten and expanding its current facility in Frechen.
New Salzkotten Service Centre – Enhancing Capacity and Efficiency
On February 1, 2025, Tosca opened a new service center in Salzkotten to meet the rising demand for its plastic half pallet. Covering 3,300 square meters and offering an annual capacity of 3.1 million trips for half pallets, the facility significantly enhances Tosca’s operational footprint in the region.
The site plays a key role in supporting their reusable plastic half pallet operations, helping to onboard and scale major FMCG opportunities effectively.
Strategic Expansion of Frechen Service Centre – Supporting Growth
In addition to the new opening, they have completed a substantial expansion of its existing service center in Frechen. The facility’s footprint has doubled, enabling approximately 2 million additional half pallet flows per year. This expansion supports anticipated business growth of over 30% in 2025 and ensures Tosca can continue to deliver consistent, high-quality service to customers across Germany.
Strengthening Supply Chain Support for Retailers in Central Europe
These developments reflect their continued focus on strengthening supply chain efficiency and reliability for key players in the FMCG and retail sectors. The investments are tailored to meet the rising operational demands of Tosca’s half pallet business, delivered through a joint programme with several prominent retail chains in Central Europe.
“These strategic investments allow us to keep pace with growing demand while maintaining the high standards of service, reliability, and sustainability expected by our customers,” said Marco Gonzalez, Managing Director for Central Europe. “With enhanced infrastructure in Salzkotten and Frechen, we are well positioned to support our continued growth across Germany.”
Schaltbau Innovates Plastic Processing with Shot Blast Automation
Attaining a competitive advantage in the market through the economical production of innovative products. By automating the de-flashing of plastic housings at its German facility, a world leader in the manufacturing of electromechanical components for safe and effective switching operations and the protection of direct current applications complied with this recommendation. The company selected an ATEX-compliant Rösler wire mesh belt blaster, model RSAB 370-T1+1. The labor costs were essentially reduced because to this investment.
The innovative products from Schaltbau GmbH, such as contactors, are – among others — used in the sectors railway, energy and e-vehicles. The de-flashing operation facilitates assembly and ensures the functionality of the electrical systems.
The Schaltbau GmbH is a top supplier of direct current (DC) solutions worldwide. This Munich-based multi-division company specializes in electrification solutions and products for a wide range of sectors. Railway clients have been using the extensive range of contactors, plug connectors, switches, and safety components for decades. The Eddicy trademark represents cutting-edge solutions for dependable and safe switching operations as well as the defense of direct current applications in the energy and e-vehicle sectors. These cutting-edge goods are manufactured in a number of places across Germany, Europe, the US, and Asia, including a facility in Aldersbach, Bavaria, Germany.
Reducing manufacturing costs through automation
Armin Voggenreiter, director of operations at the Aldersbach location of the Schaltbau GmbH, comments: “To remain competitive at our Aldersbach plant we work hard to identify cost reduction possibilities for practically every single manufacturing step.” As part of a lean manufacturing project the production of housing components was extensively analyzed. These are molded in a pressing operation utilizing melamine/polyester materials. Due to some material overflow in the press unwanted flashes are created, which must be removed to ensure the safe assembly and functionality of the components.
The blow-off system at the machine exit ensures that the housing components are leaving the blast machine without any adhering dust particles and residual blast media.
To date the flash removal was done manually requiring a lot of time and personnel. For example, one person was stationed at each press. Therefore, automating the de-flashing operation offered a substantial cost-saving opportunity.
The project managers at Schaltbau presented this task to two equipment manufacturers, whose machines are already utilized in other manufacturing areas of the company. Armin Voggenreiter explains: “Rösler was one of the two suppliers we talked to. We know this company well, because it has been a reliable partner of ours in the field of mass finishing.”
A major requirement for the selection of the right blast machine was that the de-flashing process had to be extremely gentle. For example, the components must not tumble over each other during the entire process, and they must be completely free of any residual blast media when coming out of the machine. “For this challenging task Rösler presented the by far most convincing equipment concept”, remembers the director of operations. Rösler offered the highly flexible wire mesh belt blast machine, model RSAB 370-T1+1, as the most suitable solution for the continuous, gentle de-flashing of the housing components. The de-flashing trials at Rösler were conducted in a comparable machine.
The innovative products from Schaltbau GmbH, such as contactors, are – among others — used in the sectors railway, energy and e-vehicles. The de-flashing operation facilitates assembly and ensures the functionality of the electrical systems.
“The excellent results of the processing trials convinced us that the Rösler equipment concept was by far the best for our purposes”, concludes Voggenreiter.
Effective de-flashing with less personnel
After they have been pressed, the duroplast components, with dimensions of up to 350 x 215 x 45 mm and weighing up to 575 Gramm, are manually placed on the 370 mm wide, wear resistant wire mesh belt. The transport speed through the blast machine, precisely adapted to the respective work pieces and the severity of the flashes, is stored in a processing program, which can be selected by the operator at the control panel. The blast chamber is equipped with two W32 turbines, which were specially developed for the treatment of plastic components. One turbine is placed above and the other below the wire mesh belt. The mesh is wide enough that the blast media – in the form of polyamide pellets — reaches the work pieces on all sides so that they can be de-flashed in one single pass through machine. Any dust created during the process is continuously removed.
The optional conveyor belt transport system returns the finished work pieces to the loading station where the operator removes them manually.
Moreover, the standard blow-off system and the additional compressed air blow-off device ensure that any residual blast media is removed from the de-flashed components. At the machine outlet a chute transfers the finished housing components to a separate conveyor belt system in “L” shape design for returning the components to the loading section, where they are removed by hand. “The shot blast machine allowed us to reduce our personnel costs by around 40 %”, reports Armin Voggenreiter. To minimize the operating noise, the entire shot blast machine is placed in a noise absorbing cabin. To offset the resulting shortening of the loading area, Rösler increased the length of the wire mesh belt.
STADLER Entrusts Co-CEO Role to Julia Stadler, Eighth Generation in Line
The internationally operating German firm STADLER Anlagenbau GmbH, which specializes in the design, manufacture, and assembly of turnkey recycling and sorting systems, is pleased to announce Julia Stadler’s appointment as Co-Chief Executive Officer, commencing June 1, 2025. This action promotes a forward-thinking, sustainability-driven strategy and upholds STADLER’s longstanding legacy of family leadership.
CFO Claus Maier and two co-CEOs, Willi and Julia Stadler, now make up the leadership group. This seamless team ensures continuity, trust, and a single strategic vision based on engineering excellence and environmental responsibility by merging expertise, innovation, and generational transition.
Founded in 1791 as a village forge in Altshausen, STADLER has evolved over eight generations into an internationally recognized technology leader. Today, the company is synonymous with high-quality, tailor-made sorting systems for various types of waste, enabling efficient preparation for recycling. With its innovative solutions, STADLER plays a crucial role in advancing a healthy circular economy in every country it serves.
When Willi Stadler assumed leadership in 1993, the company employed just 26 people. Today, that number has grown to around 600—reflecting sustained growth driven by a steadfast commitment to quality, innovation, and sustainable practices.
Julia Stadler, the eighth-generation family member, joined STADLER in 2023 and has served as Chief Digital Officer for the past two years. In this role, she has led the company’s digital transformation, driving initiatives in automation, integrated data systems, and AI, positioning STADLER for long-term global competitiveness. Her leadership in this role, combined with her prior international consulting experience, has equipped her with sharp strategic insight, authentic leadership qualities, and a deep understanding of global business dynamics, making her exceptionally well-prepared to assume the role of Co-CEO.
“Stepping into the role of Co-CEO as the eighth generation in our family business comes with many emotions: pride, humility, and gratitude,” says Julia Stadler. “It’s both a commitment to carry forward a business built over more than 230 years and a unique opportunity to shape where we’re going. Most of all, it’s a privilege to do this alongside my father and our dedicated team.”
Julias’s leadership qualities are powerfully captured in the words of Willi Stadler: “Julia is extremely goal-oriented and driven. When she sets a vision, she pursues it with focus, energy, and persistence. At the same time, she leads with empathy and integrity—essential qualities in today’s leadership. She listens carefully, brings people together, and creates an environment where innovation and responsibility can grow. These qualities make her not only a strong leader but also an inspiring one.” Guided by core values such as responsibility and optimism, Julia fosters a culture of ownership and empowerment, encouraging individuals and teams to view challenges not as obstacles, but as opportunities for innovative solutions.
“Julia’s appointment represents continuity and long-term thinking for our company. Her energy, modern leadership style, and international perspective bring great potential for the future. With her on the leadership team, we are well positioned to grow further and shape the next chapter of our company’s success. Lastly, I just want to say that I couldn’t imagine a better Co-CEO to work with,” concludes Willi Stadler.
Groundbreaking Synthetic Fluid Line from Perstorp Targets Industrial Lubricants
The new line of saturated synthetic polyol esters from Perstorp, a fully owned subsidiary of PETRONAS Chemicals Group Berhad (PCG) and a major worldwide innovator in specialty chemicals, has been introduced. Perstorp Synthetic-EF 5, Synthetic-EF 15, and Synthetic-EF 22 are three high-performing synthetic esters in the range that were created to satisfy the changing performance, technical, and environmental requirements of the lubricant industry. The next step in becoming a reputable leader and supplier of specialty chemicals to the expanding market for synthetic lubricants is this launch.
Perstorp’s Synthetic-EF portfolio enables lubricant producers to create high-performing, application-specific lubricants for the most demanding conditions throughout a broad temperature range, with a strong focus on validated environmental performance and supply chain security. The portfolio, which is based on saturated synthetic polyol esters, includes products that are biodegradable and registered with the Registration, Evaluation, Authorization and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH) as well as a path to listing on the Lubricant Substance Classification List (LuSC) in accordance with EU Ecolabel regulations. These solutions meet exact technical, regulatory, and environmental standards while enabling customized innovations for a variety of applications when paired with a fully integrated global supply chain and responsive local support.
Perstorp Synthetic-EF portfolio overview:
Perstorp Synthetic-EF 5 – For demanding low-temperature applications. A saturated synthetic polyol ester, registered with REACH as biodegradable, with an ultra-low pour point and high flashpoint. The product will be tested for biodegradability according to OECD 301.
Perstorp Synthetic-EF 15 – For applications that require performance and safety for effective operations. A biodegradable (OECD 301 & registered with REACH) saturated synthetic polyol ester with a high flash point and excellent thermal and oxidation stability.
Perstorp Synthetic-EF 22 – For demanding applications across a wide temperature range. A saturated synthetic polyolester, registered with REACH as biodegradable, with a high viscosity index and low acid number. The product will be tested for biodegradability according to OECD 301.
Dr. Valentina Serra-Holm, Head of Engineered Fluids Solutions at Perstorp, comments: “With our long-standing expertise in ester chemistry and vertically integrated production, we’re able to offer exceptional consistency and control throughout the value chain.
Combined with our global network of application labs and technical experts, we support lubricant manufacturers with tailored solutions and hands-on development. This makes us more than a supplier – we’re a true partner in enabling sustainable growth for lubricant manufacturers.”
Beyond technical performance, Perstorp’s synthetic esters are developed to deliver verified environmental performance – demonstrated through OECD 301, REACH registrations as biodegradable, and a roadmap toward LuSC listing in compliance with EU Ecolabel criteria. With competitive Product Carbon Footprints (PCFs) and ongoing work toward ISCC PLUS certification,
we provide lubricant manufacturers with transparent environmental credentials that support compliance with evolving regulatory and market expectations – without compromising on performance.
Clariant Unveils Next-Gen Processing Aids Free from PFAS for Clean Extrusion
New AddWorks PPA product line offers PFAS-free alternatives to conventional fluoropolymer-based polymer processing aids
Innovative formulations deliver superior extrusion processability, efficient shark skin removal, and enhanced film surface properties
Regulatory compliant solutions address growing market demand for more sustainable additives in food contact and packaging applications
Clariant announced the launch of its new AddWorks PPA product line, a new generation of PFAS-free polymer processing aids made especially for polyolefin extrusion applications, in anticipation of the K’ 2025 trade show in Duesseldorf. While upholding high performance standards, this creative solution meets the industry’s increasing demand for more environmentally friendly substitutes for traditional fluoropolymer-based processing aids.
The new line includes AddWorks PPA 122 G, which is aimed at Greater China and SEAP areas, and AddWorks PPA 101 FG, which is mainly focused on EMEA, Americas, and SEAP markets. The commercial availability of both solutions provides manufacturers with a timely answer as global regulatory prohibitions on PFAS chemicals continue to tighten.
“Our new AddWorks PPA product line represents a significant breakthrough in sustainable polymer processing,” said Diederik Goyvaerts, Global Business Development Manager for Polymer Solutions at Clariant. “By developing PFAS-free alternatives that match or exceed the performance of traditional processing aids, we’re helping our customers stay ahead of regulatory changes while maintaining the high-quality standards their end-users expect.”
The innovative formulations are completely free of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), as well as inorganic, silicone, or polysiloxane materials. This composition ensures broad regulatory compliance, including suitability for food contact and food packaging applications, addressing a critical need in the packaging industry. Additionally, these PFAS-free solutions support recyclability requirements under the upcoming EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR), further aligning with the industry’s sustainability objectives.
Manufacturers using the new AddWorks PPA solutions can expect significant processing improvements, including enhanced extrusion efficiency, effective elimination of shark skin defects, and superior film surface smoothness. The products also maintain neutral behaviour regarding optical and mechanical properties, with no negative impact on dyne level, sealability, or coefficient of friction – critical factors for downstream converting operations.
PFAS-free AddWorks PPA delivers efficient shark skin control, enhances extrusion processability, resulting in best-in-class film surface
AddWorks PPA 101 FG features a 100% active fine grain composition that can be easily incorporated via host resin, masterbatch, or concentrate. Meanwhile, AddWorks PPA 122 G comes in a convenient masterbatch form for easy handling, requiring the same dosing level as traditional polymer processing aid masterbatches, simplifying the transition for manufacturers.
The versatility of these new processing aids makes them ideal for a wide range of applications, including polyethylene blown and cast film extrusion processes commonly used in packaging, agriculture, and building & construction industries. Film converters will particularly benefit from the improved surface quality and processing efficiency these additives provide.
Clariant’s introduction of the AddWorks PPA line reinforces the company’s commitment to developing more sustainable solutions that address both regulatory challenges and performance requirements. As global regulations increasingly target PFAS substances due to environmental and health concerns, Clariant’s proactive approach provides customers with future-proof solutions that maintain operational excellence while advancing sustainability goals. It underlines Clariant’s commitment to developing solutions that align with growing consumer and brand priorities for health, transparency, and sustainability. As demand rises for products that promote well-being and minimize environmental impact, Clariant provides innovative ingredients and materials that help brands meet evolving market expectations and regulatory requirements.
UBQ Debuts New Masterbatch Line That’s Cost-Stable and Sustainable
The innovative materials company UBQ Materials unveiled UBQ Masterbatch a new product portfolio set to transform manufacturing and supply chains.
As U.S. landfills are projected to run out of capacity by 2036, UBQ Materials provides a solution to the looming waste crisis. The patented process transforms mixed household waste – including organics and hard-to-recycle materials – into a plastic alternative used in a wide range of everyday goods, from flowerpots to building materials and beyond.
Producing UBQ Masterbatch can divert up to 95% of household waste that would otherwise be sent to landfills or incinerators. Amid volatile markets and trade wars, UBQ Materials offers retailers and manufacturers a price-stable, risk-resilient plastic alternative that integrates seamlessly into existing production lines.
“We’re turning the world’s most difficult waste into a manufacturing advantage,” said Albert Douer, Chairman and CEO of UBQ Materials. “UBQ Masterbatch unlocks the ability to replace oil-based resins with a circular material made entirely from household waste, with no need to compromise on performance or process. This is more than sustainability—it’s smart sourcing. There are no more excuses for relying on virgin materials when waste can do the job better.”
UBQ Materials has manufacturing facilities in Europe and plans to open a U.S. facility soon. UBQ is shipped to manufacturing partners globally, such as Crescent Garden, who have products available in the U.S., Europe, and across Latin America.
Advancing supply chain transformation
With former EPA Administrator Gina McCarthy and EU Commissioner Connie Hedegaard on its Advisory Board, UBQ Materials advances the circular economy as part of supply chain transformation.
UBQ Materials has worked with leading brands, including Mercedes-Benz, PepsiCo, and McDonald’s, to advance their sustainability goals by incorporating UBQ material into their products.
The European Commission awarded UBQ Materials a 5 million grant from the Just Transition Fund to expand sustainable material solutions, like UBQ Masterbatch, and bring innovation to market faster.
The UBQ Masterbatch portfolio is unique because it can be combined with a range of polymers and is ideal for injection molding or shaping through molds. UBQ Masterbatch offers easy handling, excellent dispersion, cost competitiveness, and a negative carbon footprint.
Coveris Boosts Use of Recycled PE in Flexible Packaging Innovations
With a notable rise in the purchasing of post-consumer recycled (PCR) polyethylene (PE) for its industrial, consumer (beverage), and transport film products, Coveris Flexibles France has made great progress in sustainable packaging. A significant turning point in its circularity journey was reached by Coveris in France, which reported an astounding 92% rise in PCR integration into new products by the end of 2024 compared to 2022.
Since 2021, Coveris Flexibles France has incorporated over 7,400 tons of PCR material into its flexible film products, including collation films (shrink/stretch) as well as shrink/stretch tubes for transport packaging. Among the flagship products are the ultra-light, fully recyclable DuraLiteR MAX shrink-wrap films, containing up to 85% recycled content, and the TubeLiteR Stretch solution, featuring up to 50% PCR, for safe and sustainable load stability.
“We’re thrilled to see that all the PCR material purchased has been used in manufacturing our products and that PCR integration continues to grow across our product lines. It is a clear reflection of our commitment to innovation and sustainability, helps our customers meet their goals, and proves that plastics can be part of a truly circular future”, commented François-Xavier Allilaire, Films Commercial Director at Coveris Flexibles France.
This regional progress reflects Coveris Group’s broader sustainability vision: increasing PCR/PIR usage in global production from 20,000 to 50,000 tons by 2026 and 70,000 tons by 2030. These targets are supported by ReCover, Coveris’ in-house recycling operation, with a projected capacity of 90,000 tonnes by 2030. In partnership with waste management leader Interzero, ReCover uses advanced mechanical recycling to convert plastic waste into high-quality recycled resins – cutting CO₂ emissions, securing raw materials, and supporting regulatory compliance.
“At Coveris, we see plastics as valuable resources, not waste. By turning post-consumer waste into high-quality packaging and investing in our ReCover recycling business and strategic partnerships, we’re driving real change in the packaging industry,” said Nikolaus Wolfram, Chief Operating Officer at Coveris’ Flexibles Business Unit.
1. What are the trends going on at K 2025 and as the organizer how do you see that?
Everyone’s really looking forward to it not only the industry itself but also Messe Düsseldorf and our team. We are really looking forward to K 2025, because it causes a lot of preparation to prepare for a big show like this every few years. Now, we are very excited to see everyone back in Dusseldorf. So, talking about innovation, I can tell you that for K 2025 we do have a slogan. The slogan is “The Power of Plastic Green-Smart- Responsibility”. These are 3 topics. Green is for a circular economy. Smart means digitalization, which is also an important topic for the industry, and responsibility is for taking care of people, because the industry is very self-confident and also takes care of society. Especially because we all know the events of plastic are a little difficult at the moment. Industry is really working on solutions and also working for society.
The Leadership Lens THOMAS FRANKEN Project Director, K – 2025 Messe Düsseldorf GmbH
2. Circularity is gaining global attention. Could you briefly share the key trends you’re seeing, especially around innovations in converting traditional polymers into sustainable ones?
I think the circular economy topic is not new. I think the first time heard, and it was also a topic of K 2016. Already in 2019, it is getting more important, but last edition K 2022 it was one of the main topics, and it is still the main topic in industry, because industry is in transformation towards circular economy, because trying to close the loop for plastic and to bring plastic back into a cycle, because industry already understood, and I think everyone understand that plastic waste is not waste anymore it is very resourceful industry so that at least we can expect to see a lot of innovation talking about secondary raw material being used in products. It plays an important role for raw material producers and also for machinery people because you have to understand how and see how recyclate is working on machines as well and find out what kind of applications you can use this kind of material in the future. This is lot thing I’m expecting to see a lot of new innovation in this regard, especially seeing more applications where secondary raw materials are being used in the future.
3. We saw many manufacturers talking about how can be machines used for circular economy material or recyclate or person claim you can use up to 100%, so how do you see this as an industry?
We are not really industry experts. Firstly, we are just trade fair organizers. I’m not into the details as much, but we really learn from the industry because this is also the second topic of the show, Digitalization, because circular economy is not possible without digitalization, because we are collecting a lot of data with the help of artificial intelligence now. We can really use this data to have a better outcome to have sustainable production throughout the evaluation. This makes machines more efficient and also lower cost.
4. You have startup zone this was there previous year also but this year you are not focusing on could you elaborate on it?
We started with our startup zone with our own K Start-up zone last edition 2022 for the first time. We all understood the parts that start-ups cannot apply for the K show 1 and a half years in advance. For that reason, you have kept some space reserved for startups and made it possible for startups to even apply half a year before the show starts. Even now, it’s possible for start-ups to apply for the next edition because we have space reserved for start-ups with a fixed package for them, so it is very cost-efficient as well, and for the next edition in 2025. We also increased the space because of our experience from the last edition. When we tried it for the first time, when we had to bring the startup zone, we ran out of space like after a few weeks, we couldn’t even serve all the startup applicants to offer participation. This time, luckily, we could increase the space, and we also did something else. We do have science compasses, one of our main specialties, for many years already. Science compasses are a part of where we have university. Researchers taking part in the K show which is the future of plastic now we decided for the 2025 edition. We merge both so the startup zone will be next to the science compasses in the 2025 edition, so now one kind of innovation is up for the show, where we can see every young and innovative companies and universities and researchers all together in one place so if you want to keep an eye on the future of plastic and rubber just go there just recommendation from my side.
5. There are so many conferences happening during the show. Do you have some specialization which you want to tell the people about?
Yes, we have a lot of programs during the show. So, next to all the exhibitor stands we are preparing some specials, like we do have the circular economy forum again outside the VDMA. This time there will also be the power of plastics forum in the outdoor area again with 10 of the VDMA member companies and in the VDMA pavilion there will be also a small stage with some program throughout all the eight exhibition days. But talking about the big stage of K 2025, we always have our special show in hall number six. This we are doing together with Plastics Europe and Messe Düsseldorf and this is the main stage for the show and the title of the show will be “Plastics shape the Future” and here on all the eight days we have dedicated topics. So, we put a focus on each day. So, on Thursday, for example, it will be all about the circular economy, but even on Sunday we decided to put a focus on the young talents for the career starters of the industry. So, this is also part of our program but very new for the next edition.
This is our premiere. We do have a new networking event which will also happen in our special show in hall number six and this kind of format or the new networking event the name is “Women in Plastics”. It’s a special networking event just for career leaders and the female leaders in the industry and the aim of this networking event is to get some opportunities to network with each other and also to learn from each other and get some more experience from some of the female leaders of the industry already how they got to their position and what were their experience with the industry.
6. What is at K this time because previous last show it was with the Local traveling will it be same or is there any change?
It will be the same as the last edition. So, you’re totally right. So, for the last edition we had some changes because it was a post-pandemic edition for the first time. And during the pandemic, everything changed in Germany, not even Germany, maybe somewhere everywhere in the world, and still in the pandemic Messe Düsseldorf. We still offer free transportation for all the visiting tickets for the visitors. But we have changed it already in 2022 that we take public transportation for the tickets, so that the price is still the same and, also, there are a lot of new opportunities or possibilities to get your ticket nowadays, because even the Rhein Bahn in Düsseldorf, which is the public transportation system They have changed to mobile solutions as well And for that reason it’s not included anymore in all the tickets Now you if you prepare your trip, I would highly recommend if you stay in Düsseldorf Just maybe download the app or maybe even easier You can use also these weekly tickets because then you can use the train as often as you like To get to the fairground you can take a bus you can take the train the metro whatever you like So you’re totally free So if you’re staying outside of Düsseldorf Even then you have to see what kind of transportation you’re using so then you can also get your ticket But nowadays, it’s very easy. You just need your mobile phone, and then you get your ticket online and hop on the train. So, it’s not that you have to start with the ticket machine anymore.
7. What message you want to give it to the Indian exhibitors and visitors? You know when they are traveling
I think take the time to, when you participate in trade fairs, take the time to also learn a little bit about the city and the culture, because it’s very important to do business in a foreign land. You know, plan, as I said, planning is very crucial in going for a trip. Be it a trade fair, be it a personal thing. Plan well in advance and make sure you do a little bit of climate check. You know, whatever you need to carry, everything starts with planning, I would say, and making sure you’re prepared, and you’re not hit by a certain thing that you’re not prepared for. You know, that’s what I would say. Indians are well-read and well-informed. Just make sure you do a little bit of research on the place you’re going to utilize the time to also enjoy the art here in Düsseldorf, which is known for and, of course, wear comfortable shoes for both exhibitors and visitors. I would say.
1. How do you see as Dusseldorf India taking nearly 200 exhibitors to Germany some of them carrying machines what all preparation are going and what would you suggest?
K is undoubtedly a very influential and comprehensive platform for the entire value chain of the global plastic and rubber industry in India. For our team, it is one of the benchmarks in the industry. For Indian exhibitors, I think they have been looking forward to this for the last 3 years and the first thing would be to advise people when they go to K is to be prepared to do their homework well do know where to go. Please take the time to also visit other stands that are in the trade fairs and learn about the innovation that is taking place. Don’t just sit within your booth, but also visit the surrounding companies. Our visitors wear comfortable shoes. First of all, there is a lot of walking to do. Please do your homework and study where you want go because there is a lot to cover within 8 days. I think the latest innovation and trends are available at K utilize it well, plan well to make the most of the trip at K.
MILLIE CONTRACTOR General Manager Messe Düsseldorf India Pvt. Ltd.
2. Trends what I see from the India, visitor’s plan their travel in short time, what you want to suggest visitor on visa part, normally it is struggle for many people?
Going to a trade fair now is all about planning. You need to plan well in advance, especially shows like K where there are lots of Indians going. You need to plan way ahead in advance. That means, when you plan for your stand, start planning how you are going to travel, where you are going to stay and plan all that in advance. Luckily, the situation in India is not that difficult now with regard to visas. Things are better now than they were in 2020 and 2021. Still, all I would say when planning for your stand please plan how you are going to travel, when you are going to travel, where you are going to stay and how you are going to get there. So, it’s all about planning. Do take time to attend these formalities as well, because while taking care of your stand you also have to make sure you are there to take care of your stand physically as well.
3. The travelers who are going are not familiar with it, and they have so many questions do we get vegetarian food, vegan food, Jain food. So how do you see that?
So, well, this is a question that’s frequently asked whenever its K the question about food arises. We cater. I think K has a maximum number of people from Gujarat coming. It’s a very special community. It’s a vegan vegetarian community. Messe Dusseldorf ensures that everybody’s tastes are taken into account. At the trade fair we have an Indian restaurant. Many travel partners and tour operators who are at the fair take special cooks with them for the Indians who are especially vegetarian. Dusseldorf is also a very, I would say, a very modern city because you do have a lot of Indian restaurants near Harbhanhof. Some are vegetarian, of course, some are a mix. So I think you can find food everywhere, but you should know the important points, so the venue will definitely have a vegetarian restaurant. We will have something with the tour operators. Everybody is coming with their cooks and the food from India to make sure it’s all very vegetarian in basis. Harbhanhof is a great place to find Indian restaurants. Please make the time to go there and find your local cuisine.
K 2025 presentation in Mumbai
4. What message? You want to give like, you know, when people visit as a local. What kind of suggestions or a message do you want to give to the exhibitors and visitors?
I would say to everyone in the industry and, especially in India, you have to come to the K show because you cannot miss K because K is only every three years, and it’s a global hub for plastics and rubber every three years I mean we’re meeting in Dusseldorf, and it’s the most international plastics and rubber trade show worldwide So if you really want to see what’s in the future and if you want to be part of the future of plastics rubber You have to be part of it, and you have to come to Dusseldorf because at Dusseldorf You can really see that all our exhibitors. They have real world premieres at their doors. So if there’s something new every three years, they’re working towards it. They will present it at k, and they will present it to the world audience there, and if you want to see it firsthand, you have to be part of the show and that’s why I highly recommend everyone to join us in Düsseldorf in October this year.
Ms. Millie Contractor is the General Manager of Messe Düsseldorf India Pvt. Ltd. (MD India), a subsidiary of the world-famous Messe Düsseldorf GmbH. With her at the helm, MD India has grown considerably in terms of its presence and reach in the Indian trade fair and exhibition market. Focusing firmly on facilitating Indian industries’ access to international markets, she has been instrumental in staging world-class trade fairs in various sectors like plastics, rubber, packaging, healthcare, and more. Through events such as K 2022, MD India has facilitated critical platforms for innovation, business networking, and global interaction.
Ms. Millie Contractor’s vision for strategy focuses on building alliances with industry associations and being a supporter of India’s increasing focus on sustainability, circular economy, and manufacturing excellence. Her work makes MD India not only an organizer of trade fairs but a vehicle to effect industry change. Under her guidance, the company has emerged as an indispensable facilitator of knowledge exchange, driver of new technology, and source of meaningful business opportunities for Indian and international parties alike.
A firm believer in India’s growth through manufacturing, Millie Contractor is passionately devoted to promoting initiatives such as Make in India, Digital India, and Startup India. Her work has assisted global corporations in establishing themselves in India via Messe Düsseldorf events, as well as assisted Indian companies in increasing international outreach.
Ms. Millie Contractor remains a leading voice in the exhibitions sector, advocating the contribution of trade fairs to sustainable economic development, industry modernization, and global cooperation. Her impact is not limited to event management she is shaping the strategic worth of exhibitions as innovation and business development ecosystems in India and internationally.
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