Chairman’s Update – Looking Ahead with Purpose

Dear Members, Industry Partners and Colleagues,

It is with great pride and genuine enthusiasm that I write to you in my first ‘Chairmans’ Update’ as the new Chairman of the IWMA.

Firstly, I would like to express my sincere thanks to my predecessor, Don Neville, for his outstanding leadership. Don’s efforts have laid a strong foundation for IWMA’s continued growth and relevance. His vision for a revitalised IWMA, focused on championing technical innovation, increasing member engagement, and restoring our position as a leading global voice has already yielded significant results, including a notable rise in membership. I am honoured to now take this work forward.

Together with our dedicated team and global partners, I am committed to modernising the IWMA and delivering on our long-term plan: to represent, support, and connect our members through world-class events, expert knowledge sharing, and a strong international presence.

A Global Outlook – and Opportunities Ahead
Our recent Networking Industry Lunch in Düsseldorf captured the spirit of today’s wire and cable landscape. Phoenix Contact’s presentation underscored the growing importance of cybersecurity in increasingly digitalised industrial environments, while CRU’s Vishnu Patidar shared an optimistic forecast that reflected the extraordinary opportunities ahead – from surging data centre investments to major electrification and infrastructure programmes fuelled by the European Green Deal. It is clear: our industry is not only adapting but leading.

This growth is mirrored in our own network – with 22 new corporate members joining IWMA already this year. We warmly welcome these new faces and look forward to supporting them as part of our thriving international community.

wire Southeast Asia: A Major Opportunity for IWMA Members
This September, IWMA will head to wire Southeast Asia in Bangkok (17–19 September) and it’s shaping up to be one of our most exciting international exhibitions of the year.

We’ll be supporting a large Member Pavilion, offering a high-profile platform for companies to showcase their products and innovations in one of the fastest-growing markets in our industry. There are now just two spaces remaining in our prime-position Member Pavilion. If you’re interested in exhibiting, please contact our Executive Manager, Jessica Bennett, as soon as possible to secure your place.

We’re also thrilled to be launching a brand-new one-day technical conference during the show: “Connecting Innovation: Driving Growth in the Wire & Cable Industry.” The conference will feature expert presentations and industry insights focused on regional developments, technological innovation, and future growth opportunities.

To find out more about the event and the region’s growing importance, be sure to read our exclusive interview with Beattrice Ho from Messe Düsseldorf Asia in this edition of IWMA Insider.

Krakow 2025: Technical Conference Registration Opening Soon
On 14th October, we head to Krakow for the Wire & Cable Conference 2025 – co-organised with WAI, AGH University, and ACIMAF. Tickets will go on sale by the end of this month.

This two-track event (Ferrous and Non-Ferrous) will feature 27 expert-led presentations covering:

• Manufacturing Innovation
• AI & Digitalisation
• Sustainability & Environmental Impact
• Materials Science & Process Optimisation
• Market Trends & Strategic Insight

The programme includes speakers from Tata Steel, TKT Group, AGH University, CRU, Tokai University, Pittini Group and more.
You can also expect:

• Tabletop Exhibits from cutting-edge suppliers
• A memorable Gala Dinner at Krakow’s Old Tram Depot
• Optional tours to TFKable and the Wieliczka Salt Mines

This is a must-attend event for anyone serious about the future of our industry. Visit www.wirecable25.com to find out more!

Celebrating 50 Years of the IWMA Dinner Dance
Looking ahead to 21st November, we’re excited to mark a very special occasion – the IWMA Dinner Dance in London, celebrating its 50th anniversary. The event first started in Stratford Upon Avon in 1975 and we are delighted to be celebrating 50 years of this prestigious event at the Radisson Blu Bloomsbury Hotel in London. With just 120 tickets available, I encourage you to book early to avoid disappointment. This promises to be a spectacular evening of celebration, reflection, and networking.

And Finally… The Countdown to wire Düsseldorf Begins
With just under a year to go, preparations for wire Düsseldorf 2026 are already in motion. IWMA will soon unveil details of our stand and the exclusive benefits it will offer to members throughout the show. We’re also excited to announce the return of our popular networking event, taking place on Tuesday 14th April. This gathering has become a firm favourite in the Düsseldorf calendar, and we look forward to welcoming many of you there once again.

Thank you again for your continued support. I look forward to meeting many of you at our upcoming events and working together to ensure the IWMA continues to deliver value, opportunity, and representation for our global community.

With kind regards,
Willibert Dautzenberg
Chairman, IWMA