René Güntner is the new Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of the MAPAL Group. In his role, he assumes responsibility for the areas of financial accounting, controlling, purchasing and facility management. "With his many years of management experience and in-depth expertise in international companies, René Güntner will contribute valuable impetus to the strategic development of the MAPAL Group. We are very much looking forward to working together," emphasises Dr Jochen Kress, President of the MAPAL Group. In his last role as Executive Vice President Finance, Güntner (45) was responsible for group accounting, controlling, IT, the business management of international subsidiaries as well as contract and risk management. “I see myself as financial officer as well as sparring partner for all areas of the company,” he says. “Open dialogue and cross-divisional collaboration are key success factors.”

Solarsense has been working with Renishaw Plc on their ongoing clean energy projects since 2015. Following the success of the initial New Mills solar scheme (pictured), it became evident that many of the organization's energy-intensive sites were ideal for solar PV to reduce costs and improve their ESG credentials. As a result, Renishaw partnered with Solarsense to develop a range of solar projects, including on-roof solar panels, ground-mounted PV arrays, and solar carports. Each individual site required a different approach and presented a range of different obstacles to overcome, including; grid limitations, access issues and shading problems, however, the expert design teams were able to overcome these using a variety of specialist technologies.

Pyromeral composite materials resist very well to elevated temperatures and can advantageously replace metallic components on hot spot areas in vehicles. For instance, PyroSic is 2x lighter than Titanium alloys and 4x lighter that Steels or Inconels. When used, our products enable to save weight on equipments like UAVs, missiles or aircrafts, in exhaust areas but also for thermostructural components. Thus, vehicles uses less fuel and then can either enhance their outreach or their payload or their velocity. In another vein, our PyroXide technology (due to its RadioFrequencies performances), enables to design and manufacture lightweight and complex shapes radomes. The material retains also mechanical properties at elevated temperature (up to 1200-1300°C), which can lead to application in radomes, leading edges or external skin components for hypersonic vehicles.

Recognising the need for agility and efficiency in product development, TRC strategically decided to incorporate additive manufacturing into its workflow. By integrating a Creaform HandySCAN laser scanner and advanced CAD software alongside 3D printers, TRC has revolutionised its design process from scan to product. This transition has not only accelerated production timelines but has also enabled TRC to tackle complex surfaces with precision. Products can be scanned in-house, allowing for seamless digitisation and refinement using CAD software. For instance, the design of the new wide arch kit for the Audi R8 exemplifies this streamlined approach, where precise scanning and CAD modelling result in a perfect fit and finish. Moreover, the HandySCAN’s versatility enables it to handle many materials encountered in automotive styling, ranging from painted car exteriors to textured interiors and ABS plastic panels.

The marine sector is no stranger to challenges, from intricate ship designs to complex underwater structures. In such a demanding environment, precision and efficiency are paramount. Traditional methods of measurement and inspection often fall short, leading to delays, errors, and increased costs, however, 3D scanning technology uncovers a new era of possibilities. Central to this is the Creaform HandySCAN 3D|MAX, which combines the portability, accuracy, speed, and simplicity, which are inherent to the HandySCAN 3D line-up, but the new MAX Series is optimised to acquire highly accurate 3D measurements on large and complex parts typically present in the marine sector.

At Advanced Engineering 2025, Schneider Electric is showcasing how open, software-defined automation—powered by EcoStruxure Automation Expert and the Universal Automation Organisation—is transforming industrial control with flexibility, interoperability, and real-world results. From driving sustainability and digital transformation to preparing for AI-driven disruption and inspiring the next generation of engineers, Schneider is leading the charge toward a smarter, more resilient industrial future.

Rhodes Interform, one of the UK’s leading metalforming machinery manufacturers, has secured a multi-million-pound contract to manufacture and supply a brand-new mechanical punch press for Zentia at its facilities in Gateshead. Zentia is a market leader in complete ceiling solutions in the UK. ‘’It is a privilege to be asked to supply Zentia with another high specification metalforming solution. As a UK market leader of complete ceiling solutions, Zentia requires the production speed and accuracy that is provided by the high specification Rhodes DS2 mechanical press range. We look forward to working closely with the Zentia team on this valued project’’

At Rockwood Group, innovation isn’t just a buzzword — it’s the foundation of everything we do. That’s why we’re especially proud to share that we’ve been shortlisted for the Innovation in Manufacturer category at this year’s awards. This recognition celebrates more than just new processes or technologies. It highlights the mindset of our team — a commitment to pushing boundaries, rethinking the way things are done, and finding smarter, more sustainable ways to create real impact for our customers and industry. Over the past year, our teams have continued to explore bold ideas, implement advanced solutions, and embrace a culture of continuous improvement. Whether it’s streamlining operations, introducing intelligent systems, or collaborating closely with clients to deliver tailored results, innovation has been at the center of our journey. Of course, none of this would be possible without the incredible people behind Rockwood Group. From our colleagues who bring energy and expertise every day, to the partners who collaborate with us, and the clients who inspire us to do better — this achievement belongs to all of you. Being shortlisted is both an honour and a motivator. It reaffirms the importance of the path we’re on and challenges us to keep raising the bar. As we look ahead, we remain committed to shaping the future of manufacturing with solutions that make a lasting difference.

As part of its growth plans, Rockwood Composites has moved to a new factory in South Devon. This consolidates the operation from 4 units over 2 sites in Newton Abbot to a single site in Paignton. The new factory provides nearly twice the floorspace of the previous units and will allow for more efficient working and also provide space for further expansion.

RVmagnetics is proud to announce our selection as one of 15 companies advancing to Phase 2 of the Defence Innovation Accelerator for the North Atlantic (DIANA) Program. Our groundbreaking MicroWire technology addresses critical needs in both civilian and defence domains by enabling precise, passive, contactless measurements of various physical parameters. “As RVmagnetics enters Phase 2 of the NATO DIANA program, we see this milestone as a catalyst to accelerate both the technical and business dimensions of our mission. On the technical side, this phase allows us to further standardize and productize our MicroWire sensor technology, ensuring it is ready for faster adoption across NATO partners and validated through independent testing. On the business front, Phase 2 supports our progression to concrete defense projects, particularly in composite integrity monitoring for airframes and advanced platforms. These steps align with our broader goal of enabling reliable, scalable sensing solutions that strengthen defense capabilities and extend to civilian applications. At the same time, the momentum of this program lays the groundwork for our upcoming Series A financing, which will help bring our innovations to the global stage more rapidly,” said Michal Borza, COO. James Appathurai, Managing Director of NATO DIANA, commented: “DIANA is NATO's innovation engine. We are finding the most innovative technologies from the market; we are helping these talented innovators fine-tune their technologies and grow their businesses; and we are connecting the companies to end users so that NATO defence ministries can adopt new technologies at the speed of relevance, including through DIANA’s Rapid Adoption Service.” We’re committed to pushing the boundaries of innovation and contributing to a more secure, future-ready Alliance, and look forward to continuing our journey with DIANA that will help us accelerate progress toward these goals.

CCP Gransden, a leader in advanced composite engineering, is happy to announce the reapproval of our ADS SC21 Gold Standard Performance Award for another year. This prestigious accolade reaffirms our unwavering commitment to excellence in supply chain performance within the aerospace and defence sectors. The SC21 (Supply Chains for the 21st Century) program, established by the ADS Group, sets rigorous standards for quality, delivery, and continuous improvement. Achieving and maintaining the Gold Standard is a testament to CCP Gransden’s dedication to superior performance, reliable delivery, and consistent quality. Commitment to Excellence Our reapproval for the SC21 Gold Standard reflects CCP Gransden’s dedication to maintaining the highest levels of operational efficiency and customer satisfaction. This achievement underscores our robust quality management systems and our commitment to continuous improvement, ensuring we meet and exceed the stringent requirements of our clients and industry partners. A Collaborative Effort The reapproval process involves a thorough evaluation of our performance metrics, including on-time delivery rates, product quality, and business processes. It is a collaborative effort, reflecting the hard work and dedication of our entire team. Each department, from engineering to production to quality assurance, plays a vital role in upholding these high standards. Looking Ahead The reapproval of the ADS SC21 Gold Standard is not just a reflection of our past success but a commitment to ongoing improvement. We will continue to enhance our processes, invest in cutting-edge technologies, and uphold the highest standards of quality and performance. Thank You We extend our gratitude to our customers, partners, and the entire CCP Gransden team for their continued support and dedication. Together, we will strive for new heights in supply chain excellence and maintain high benchmarks for the future.

[November 2024] AES organisers judged STC’s promotion of the show and its own VIP Lounge, in partnership with founding member Silverstone Park and member Jaltek, helped drive more visitors to the show than any other organisation. The Lounge attracted almost 2,000 visitors over the show’s two days whilst the STC’s accompanying Innovation Zone – for 18 business members to exhibit – further drew the crowds. “This award is the icing on the cake after what has been the most successful appearance so far at AES by the STC,” commented STC CEO Pim van Baarsen. “It is also credit to the excellent work by all the STC team – this was the sixth time we had hosted the VIP Lounge and we can’t remember such a proactive and positive two days of networking.” The STC previously won the award in 2022.

Strainsense supply and manufacture a wide range of sensor solutions for monitoring a wide range of Vehicle Dynamic applications for safety, stability and performance. We understand that no application is the same, each environment changes and so should the sensor to withstand with that environment. Over years, we have developed comprehensive technology solutions for the measurement of Position, Vibration, Inclination, Pressure & Force all available with ISO 17025 calibration (on request). Body Movement, Stability, Suspension & Motion: DC Accelerometers, Linear Potentiometers, String Pots Dynamic Structural Behaviour/NVH: AC Accelerometers Ride/Pedestrian Comfort: Seat Pad Accelerometer & Analyser Brakes/Coolant & Fuel: Combined Pressure/Temperature Sensors Data Acquisition: Nexdaq, Trionet & A4

Schabmüller Automobiltechnik GmbH (SMI) in Großmehring near Ingolstadt has been an automotive supplier since 1988 and has increasingly specialised in the efficient manufacture of large series. The parts are installed in vehicles made by Mercedes, Porsche, Audi, BMW and Jaguar, among others. SMI operates predominantly as a Tier 2 supplier. Major clients are Aludyne and Strojmetal, which directly supply the automotive industry as an aluminium foundry and forge.

We have successfully completed our first year of carbon accounting in UK with Auditel! In doing so, we have been able to quantify and understand our operational carbon footprint, developing the tools and knowledge for us to improve. Overall, the study shows that we produce less CO₂ than a standard manufacturing organisation* and we are confident that we can further reduce our GHG emissions as we work towards Net-Zero. Our next steps are to work across our organisation to set, and manage, clear reduction targets. Striving to meet the demands of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet theirs. SHD has a long-standing commitment to environmental responsibility, continuously implementing improvements to make our solutions the most sustainable in the industry. This includes introducing novel products, increasing production equipment energy efficiency, reducing packaging weight, and more. Now, we are able to support the composite supply chain on its route to Net-Zero with a diverse range of bio-based formulations and an equally diverse range of reinforcements to offer our customers alternatives to suit all requirements, from natural fibres to high performance recycled carbon fibres. Nick Smith, Technical Director, "Here at SHD we make the protection of our planet high on our priority list. As such, we are committed to reducing the environmental impact of our operations as much as possible. As part of this commitment, we are working to reduce carbon emissions from all parts of the business to enable a robust route to Net-Zero." Read about where it started with Auditel here: "SHD demonstrates environmental commitment by setting ambitious Net Zero goals" *In comparison to other manufacturers that are working with Auditel.