Driving Connections Forward: IWMA Industry Networking Lunch 2026, Silverstone

IWMA hosted our sold-out 2026 Industry Networking Lunch at the iconic Silverstone Museum, bringing together professionals from across the global wire and cable community for a day that blended high-performance inspiration with meaningful industry connections.

Held on 19th February 2026, the event offered far more than a traditional networking lunch. Guests were welcomed with teas, coffees and pastries before setting off to enjoy a full guided tour of the museum, exploring the rich heritage of British motor racing and innovation. From historic race cars to immersive exhibits, the setting provided a powerful reminder of how engineering excellence, teamwork and continuous development drive success – values equally embedded within our own industry.

A lively Scalextric experience added a competitive twist to the morning, proving that a little friendly rivalry can be the perfect catalyst for conversation.

As one attendee, Matthias Strobel, commented: “It is always an excellent event and a great location to meet with our partners from across the industry.”

We were also joined by several members of our newly formed Future Faces Committee. IWMA Chairman Willibert Dautzenberg took the opportunity to formally announce the launch of the committee and introduce those in attendance to the audience. We look forward to the ideas, enthusiasm and fresh perspective they will bring as they help shape the future of the IWMA.

Chi Lee, Analyst in CRU’s Wire & Cable Team, delivered the first industry presentation of the day. In her session, “Global Outlook for Wire & Cable: Market and Geopolitical Crosswinds,” Chi provided an overview of global cable demand and the geopolitical pressures shaping trade flows. She highlighted continued growth forecasts for insulated cable consumption in 2026, while examining the impact of new US Section 232 tariffs, shifting trade patterns and rising copper prices on market dynamics across the US, Europe and Asia.

Lunch was then served overlooking the legendary Formula 1 circuit and the new Silverstone karting track, offering impressive views of one of the world’s most famous racing venues. Delegates also enjoyed exclusive access to the F1 track viewing platform, creating a truly unique setting for relaxed discussion and new connections.

Reflecting on the value of bringing together companies from across the sector, Aaron Heath noted: “It is always valuable to meet people from different companies across the industry, from machinery manufacturers to materials suppliers, and to gain a better understanding of the sector’s opportunities and challenges.”

A key highlight of the afternoon was the presentation of the IWMA Young Employee of the Year Award 2026 to Jooris Eickenbusch of IDEAL-Werk. Presented by IWMA President Bernd Lohmüller, the award recognised Jooris’s technical expertise, leadership potential and commitment to professional development. As a representative of the next generation of talent driving our industry forward, his achievement was warmly celebrated by colleagues and peers alike.

Following the award presentation, Captain Chris Groves RN (Ret’d), Master of the Worshipful Company of Tin Plate Workers alias Wire Workers, delivered “The Wire Industry & the London Livery Tradition.” His engaging address highlighted the continued relevance of the Livery movement in supporting education, professional standards and industry engagement, encouraging stronger links between today’s wire sector and its historic city roots.

The keynote speech was delivered by Sebastian Sheppard, former Engineering Manager at Alpine Formula One. In his inspiring presentation, “Wired for Innovation: From the Pit Lane to the Future of the Wire & Machinery Industry,” Sebastian drew powerful parallels between Formula One and the wire and machinery sector. Reflecting on his career – from Royal Navy helicopter pilot to leading more than 150 engineers in the high-pressure world of Formula One. He highlighted the importance of resilience, precision, psychological safety and high-performing teams. His insights resonated strongly with the audience, demonstrating that whether on the track or in manufacturing, success depends on alignment, leadership and a shared commitment to excellence.

Phil Croker commented on the keynote presentation: “The talk we had from Sebastian today was fantastic. It’s not every day that you get to hear the secret source from inside the engineering team of an F1 high-performance team”.

The day’s momentum was further strengthened by the generous support of our event sponsors. Sincere thanks go to Maschinenfabrik NIEHOFF GmbH & Co. KG, Drinks Sponsor for the event, and to SKET Verseilmaschinenbau GmbH, sponsor of the teas, coffees and pastries reception. Their valued support played an important role in delivering a seamless and high-quality experience for all attendees.

Feedback from delegates following the event also reflected the positive atmosphere throughout the day. In the post-event survey, Kerry McLaughlin commented: “The event was really well organised and all involved were very welcoming.” She also noted: “The venue was really nice with great facilities, and the catering was extremely good quality”.

As the conversations continued long after the formal programme concluded, one thing was clear: the IWMA community is firmly on pole position for the challenges and opportunities ahead.