Bernd Lohmüller on the Future of the Wire and Cable Industry

IWMA President Bernd Lohmüller reflects on industry change, global collaboration and the next generation shaping the future of the wire and cable sector.

Few industries sit as close to the centre of the global energy and digital transition as the wire and cable sector. From renewable power and electrification to artificial intelligence and data infrastructure, the technologies shaping modern economies all rely on high performance cable systems. After two years as President of the IWMA, Bernd Lohmüller has had a clear view of how these changes are reshaping the industry and the role the IWMA plays in connecting companies across the global value chain.

During his presidency the association has continued to grow its international presence, expand its events programme and strengthen relationships with members and industry partners worldwide. For Bernd, one of the most rewarding aspects of the role has been the response from the global wire and cable community.

“The most rewarding moments were the recognition and success we received,” he explains. “All IWMA events held over the past two years received very positive feedback from our industry. We also received encouraging responses from our members, from our partners at Messe Düsseldorf and from other international associations.”

This response confirms the continued importance of the IWMA as a platform that brings together companies from across the industry to share knowledge, build relationships and explore new opportunities.

A Changing Market Landscape

The wire and cable industry is currently experiencing a period of contrasting market developments. While some traditional sectors face challenges, newer applications are driving strong growth.

“Demand for cables is developing along two different paths,” Bernd explains. “Traditional sectors such as automotive wires and low voltage building wire are struggling, while new growth applications including cables for data centres, submarine cables and photovoltaic installations are setting new records.”

The wider economic environment also continues to influence the industry. Political tensions, trade barriers and regional conflicts are creating uncertainty in many markets, while manufacturing in some established regions faces structural challenges.

“In North America and Europe the manufacturing industry has proved disappointing due to high costs and labour challenges,” he says. “Political conflicts, tariffs and wars are also having a negative impact on economies.”

Despite these pressures, major investments in infrastructure and energy systems are creating new opportunities across the sector.

“Energy suppliers worldwide are prioritising investment to support energy security and to keep pace with the rapid development of data centres,” Bernd says. “At the same time regions such as India and South East Asia continue to experience strong growth with robust domestic demand and an increasing international presence.”

Connecting a Global Industry

For Bernd, the increasingly international nature of the wire and cable sector makes global collaboration essential.

“Global collaboration is essential,” he says. “The wire and cable markets in Europe and the UK are not the strongest at the moment, so the IWMA must focus on markets worldwide. Connecting people globally has been a focus of the IWMA for many years.”

Today the association represents around 250 companies across the entire wire and cable value chain. From machinery manufacturers and material suppliers to wire and cable producers, the IWMA provides a neutral platform where companies can meet, exchange knowledge and build partnerships.

“IWMA’s greatest strength lies in its ability to connect the entire wire and cable value chain on a global scale,” Bernd explains. “The association creates platforms for networking, knowledge sharing and visibility through exhibitions, technical conferences and communication channels.”

For many companies, he adds, IWMA is the glue that keeps the industry informed, visible and connected across markets and technologies.

Investing in the Next Generation

Looking ahead, Bernd believes the association must continue to strengthen the value it provides to members by supporting innovation, collaboration and knowledge exchange. Developing the next generation of professionals is also a key priority.

The recently established Future Faces Committee aims to give younger voices a stronger presence within the association.

“Initiatives like the Future Faces Committee are important because they ensure the next generation is actively involved, not just observing,” he explains. “They help younger professionals develop the skills, networks and confidence needed to take on future leadership roles.”

After nearly four decades in the industry, Bernd remains convinced that the wire and cable sector offers excellent opportunities for young professionals.

“The wire and cable industry is a fantastic place to build a career,” he says. “Major global trends such as electric vehicles, renewable energy, grid modernisation and the rapid growth of data centres and artificial intelligence all depend on reliable high performance cables.”

His advice to young engineers is to develop a broad understanding of the industry and remain open to how different parts of the value chain connect.

“Take an interest in the entire value chain, from materials and design to manufacturing, installation and recycling. Develop a strong understanding of sustainability, digitalisation and standards, because these will shape the next generation of cable solutions.”

Innovation and the Road Ahead

International exhibitions also continue to play an important role in bringing the global industry together. One of the most significant is wire Düsseldorf.

“wire Düsseldorf is the central meeting place for the global wire and cable industry,” Bernd says. “All market leaders attend this international networking event.”

For companies across the sector it provides an opportunity to showcase innovations, meet customers and strengthen business relationships around the world.

This year also marks the 75th anniversary of Maschinenfabrik Niehoff, a milestone that reflects decades of engineering innovation and global partnership.

“Seventy five years of NIEHOFF stand for engineering excellence, innovative strength and partnership based collaboration worldwide,” Bernd says.

Looking ahead, he believes the next decade will be shaped by automation, digitalisation and sustainability.

“With real time data, connected machines and advanced analytics, manufacturers will increasingly move towards predictive and preventive maintenance,” he explains. “This will help avoid unplanned downtime and improve production efficiency.”

Even after 38 years in the industry, Bernd says he remains deeply inspired by both the technological importance of the sector and the people who work within it.

“The wire and cable industry is global, but the community often feels like a small family,” he says. “Over the years many business partners have become real friends.”

After two years as President of the IWMA, Bernd Lohmüller remains optimistic about both the future of the industry and the role the association can play in supporting it. As global demand for cables continues to grow and new technologies reshape manufacturing, the IWMA will continue to focus on what it does best: bringing people together, sharing knowledge and strengthening the connections that move the wire and cable industry forward.