Arburg Technology Days 2025 between global challenges and sustainable innovation

The Technology Days, Arburg’s annual event dedicated to engaging with journalists and customers from around the world, are currently taking place in Lossburg (19-21 March). As per tradition, 18 March was reserved exclusively for the international technical press. Since the first edition in 1999, Arburg has welcomed over 108,000 guests from more than 50 countries.

A complex global landscape
Michael Hehl, Managing Partner and spokesperson of the Board of Directors, welcomed journalists with an opening speech, highlighting the current challenges in the global landscape. He pointed out how recent crises – including Covid-19, supply chain disruptions, and geopolitical tensions – have led to energy difficulties with repercussions on the global economy. In this uncertain scenario, events such as the Technology Days and industry trade fairs like the K Show play a crucial role in fostering innovation and industrial dialogue.

Key topics: digitalisation, remote services, and tailor-made solutions
The event spotlighted three main aspects: complex production processes with customised solutions tailored to industry needs; workforce qualification; and sustainability, a fundamental principle for the future of manufacturing. Sustainability, in particular, emerged as a central theme, with a strong focus on bio-based materials and innovative recycled solutions and energy efficiency in production processes to enhance productivity.

Customers are increasingly demanding solutions that comply with tightening European regulations, making innovation and sustainability key factors for future success. These elements are crucial in overcoming today’s and tomorrow’s challenges. Especially in difficult times like these, the need and ability to focus on strategic issues such as digitalisation are growing, alongside the implementation of new tools to sustainably increase production efficiency and profitability while effectively addressing the shortage of skilled labour.

In the realm of environmental protection, one particularly interesting project is Arburg’s collaboration with the start-up Carbonauten, which is developing masterbatches and compounds for industrial applications with a low CO₂ footprint. These materials are based on technical biochar derived from plant residues, offering a sustainable alternative to traditional polymers.

During the Technology Days, innovative applications were showcased, including paper injection moulding and the processing of alternative materials made from eggshells, sunflower seed husks, and corn starch, with potential applications in packaging and medical technology.

Arburg also emphasised how adopting sustainable practices provides a competitive advantage, helping customers achieve both environmental and economic goals.

Global Market and Arburg’s Strategy
Despite growing competition from China, the German multinational remains optimistic about the future, reaffirming Germany as its sole production site. The company is also strongly committed to the US market, although recent political uncertainties have led to some hesitations. The European market is facing significant challenges, but Arburg believes that investments, particularly in key international showcases like the K Show, can support a stable recovery. Additionally, Arburg has confirmed its participation in Chinaplas, further strengthening its presence in the Asian market.