Two days, around 60 participants from leading cutting and forming tool manufacturers, from zero to 100 in 3 seconds: The "VDWF Stanzer-Treff" in late June in Idar-Oberstein delivered substantial value through meaningful industry insights, dynamic cross-company networking, and an engaging agenda.
The event, organized by the Association of German Tool and Mold Makers (VDWF) and held on June 29 and 30, took place at the facilities of Wolfgang Loch, a manufacturer of stamped, drawn, and formed parts, as well as complex, ready-to-assemble welded and assembled components. The first day began with a presentation by Tebis board member Jens Lüdtke on the current situation in tool and mold manufacturing. The subsequent technical presentations delved deeper into specific topics such as software, continuous improvement processes, and organizational efficiency in tool and mold making.
Gliding and Soccer Night
A tour of the Loch facilities provided interesting insights into stamping and assembly technology before the group literally took to the skies: The participants traveled by bus to the nearby gliding field. There, they had the opportunity to be catapulted to 100 km/h in just 3 seconds in a glider. A roughly 20-minute flight then rewarded them with a magnificent view. "The glider flight was a very special highlight," reports VDWF Managing Director Ralf Dürrwächter. "Not only did we have perfect weather, but everyone was in fantastic spirits – an unforgettable experience!"
A group dinner provided another opportunity for professional discussion and networking. Before the group viewing of the Germany vs. Paraguay World Cup match, legendary referee Lutz Wagner sent his greetings via video call and shared his predictions for the game. Although the German national team was eliminated, the toolmakers in attendance agreed that the DACH region remained the technological world champion in their industry – they just needed to work together with policymakers to counter the distorted international price competition and maintain this position.
Practical Insights and Personal Exchange
On the second day of the event, participants first toured the toolmaking department at Wolfgang Loch, before continuing by bus to Fissler in Hoppstädten-Weiersbach. During a guided tour of the cookware manufacturer's plant, they got a close-up look at how high-quality "made in Germany" products are manufactured.
Back at Wolfgang Loch's, a group barbecue brought the event to a close. "These kinds of informal gatherings are essential to an event like this –this is where the conversations take place that we often don't have time for in our day-to-day business," says Dürrwächter, explaining the "VDWF meeting space." And it is, according to Dürrwächter, precisely this that fosters cohesion within the industry.
Overall, it became clear just how much the event thrives on the combination of expert input, practical insights, and personal interaction. "The event once again brought together top-tier experts from across the industry, and the intensive exchange among peers makes this format something special year after year," Dürrwächter sums up, looking forward to the next "Stanzer-Treff". It will take place in 2027 at Vapic in the Black Forest.
