Paul-Bernd Vogtland, managing partner of the VDF Federn Group (DE) from Hagen and at the same time chairman of the board of the German spring trade association VDFI, was elected as president, succeeding Tomi Parmasuo, Meconet OY (FI) in this office. Francesco Silvestri, Mollificio I.S.B. s.r.l. (IT) was elected as his deputy and Dr Michael Hagedorn, VDFI (DE) was appointed as the new Secretary General. Axel Schnöring, Schnöring GmbH (DE), was confirmed in his office as Treasurer.

 President Paul-Bernd Vogtland also sees the spring industry facing major challenges. The environment of the spring industry in Europe will change significantly in the future due to the change between globalisation and de-globalisation of the economy, the structural change in the automotive industry and the chosen path towards climate neutrality as well as the major demographic challenges and the resulting HR issues. A European umbrella organisation that brings together the interests of the national European trade associations, for example in areas such as standardisation or research, and represents them worldwide, is a great support for the internationally active spring industry.

www.esf-springs.com