Over 120 participants from 18 countries convened in Berlin on 9–10 October 2025 for the ISTMA Europe Meeting, hosted by Fraunhofer-IPK and organized by VDWF. The event highlighted the profound structural changes shaping the tool and mould-making industry, offering a platform for industry leaders, OEMs, Tier-1 suppliers, associations, and research institutions to explore challenges and opportunities in a rapidly evolving global landscape.
A Sector in Transformation
Under the leadership of Stephan Berz, ISTMA Europe President since February 2025, the meeting addressed the deep structural shifts in European toolmaking. Key pressures include:
- Declining new model launches in the automotive sector
- Rising regulatory demands and sustainability reporting
- Energy and labor cost increases
- Shortages of skilled personnel
- Heightened global competition, particularly from China
Berz emphasized that these developments represent a permanent transformation, requiring European toolmakers to innovate technologically, organize strategically, and strengthen political engagement.
Political Engagement and European Competitiveness
Manuel Oliveira, ISTMA Europe Secretary General, stressed the importance of raising toolmaking's profile in Brussels. Many policymakers underestimate the sector's role as the "mother of all industries." Collaborative efforts with WBA Aachen are underway to quantify economic, employment, and innovation contributions, supporting data-driven advocacy.
Filip Geerts, Director General of CECIMO, reinforced the call for an "Europe of industrial reason," advocating for streamlined regulation, increased digitalisation, and stronger promotion of production technologies.
Cooperation, Networks, and Strategic Partnerships
Member country reports highlighted the growing importance of cross-border networks, shared standards, and data-driven cooperation. OEMs increasingly expect toolmakers to act as strategic partners rather than mere suppliers. Examples include Renault's model of awarding a single toolset per vehicle series to collaborative toolmakers with global capabilities.
Panel discussions underscored the need for early involvement in design, financial and project management expertise, and digital integration. Innovative financing models, such as pay-per-use or blockchain-based leasing, were identified as tools to reduce investment barriers and strengthen strategic positioning.
Automotive Trends and Toolmaking Opportunities
Analyst Al Bedwell (GlobalData) highlighted shifts in global vehicle production:
- Battery electric vehicles (BEVs) are growing rapidly, with 36% growth in Europe in 2025
- China dominates electromobility, producing over 50% of new plug-in and battery electric vehicles
- Europe maintains a strategic position, producing 70% of EVs sold locally
These trends open opportunities for European toolmakers in areas such as battery housings, high-voltage connectors, cooling systems, and tooling for lightweight materials and new manufacturing processes.
Model-Based Tooling Forecast
ISTMA Europe introduced a Tooling Forecast Model, updated six times per year using GlobalData vehicle planning data. It enables toolmakers to anticipate order volumes, production segments, and timing. For example, a single new premium vehicle can generate €250 million in tooling requirements, while a mid-range model may require €180 million, helping companies align capacity with automotive cycles.
Technology, AI, and Cooperation
Panels explored the role of digitalisation, AI, and collaborative networks. Key takeaways:
- AI supports simulation, process optimization, and fault detection but cannot replace human expertise
- Tools are increasingly part of global, integrated systems
- Case studies, such as Tooling Corporation and Grupo Socem, highlight the importance of mutual trust, shared resources, and dynamic specification systems
Investment Insights: The €50 Million Question
Experts agreed that success depends on intelligence, not size, focusing on cooperation, process knowledge, digital capabilities, and global networks. Suggested investments included:
- Precision machinery, engineering, and global service infrastructure
- Integrated product portfolios and in-house tooling
- Rapid prototyping, demonstrator capacity, and IP protection
Conclusion: Reinvention is Imperative
The Berlin meeting made clear that European tool and mould making is at a strategic crossroads. Companies that embrace digitalisation, international cooperation, and political engagement will secure their role as central enablers of industrial value creation. Those that fail risk being overtaken by global competitors.
The ISTMA Europe Meeting 2025 was made possible thanks to host Fraunhofer-IPK, participating scientists, and sponsors including AHP Merkle, ETMM, Grob, IK Office, Knarr, MouldingExpo, Oerlikon HRSflow, Tebis, United Machining, and WBA Aachen.
