The VDMA Welding and Compressed Gas Technology Association is reorganizing itself and will in future be part of the Industrial Valves Division within the Valves Association. The aim of this merger is to increase visibility, strengthen networks and improve the representation of interests in a dynamic environment.
The welding and compressed gas technology industry is facing profound changes. To proactively address these developments - particularly regarding stricter European regulations, technological innovations and changing market conditions - the member companies of the Welding and Compressed Gas Technology Association are joining the Industrial Valves Division. This strategic decision is intended to significantly strengthen the joint position.
In particular, the increasing complexity at European level - for example due to requirements for materials, sustainability or the digital product passport - makes more effective representation of interests necessary. By merging, the two organizations are combining their expertise and will be able to present themselves jointly to politicians, the public and other interest groups in future.
Reaction to structural change in the industry
The two sectors share numerous overlaps: from regulatory requirements and environmental and sustainability issues such as PFAS and lead to innovations and changes to companies' product portfolios.
“The technological upheaval does not stop at our association,” emphasizes Gerd Weissenfels, Managing Partner of IBEDA and Chairman of the Welding and Compressed Gas Technology Association. “That's why we deliberately chose this step in order to offer our members the greatest possible added value under changing conditions.”
More power through consolidation
The aim of the integration is to pool resources and represent the concerns of member companies in an even more targeted manner in future. In addition to proven services such as market analyses and specialist work, companies will also benefit from a larger community and expanded consulting services in future.
“The Industrial Valves Division warmly welcomes the new members,” says Axel Weidner, Partner at Mankenberg GmbH and Chairman of the VDMA Valves Association. “By pooling our expertise, we are creating an even more powerful network that can address technological, regulatory and strategic challenges more efficiently.”
Formal integration decided
The integration is based on a resolution of the Extraordinary General Meeting and the Enlarged Executive Board. With the formal dissolution of the Welding and Compressed Gas Technology Association, it will be organizationally integrated into the Fittings Association.
“Our task is to act with foresight and develop structures in such a way that they continue to meet the needs of companies in the future,” explains Dr. Laura Dorfer, Managing Director of both VDMA associations. “The integration strengthens our work across the board without losing our technical depth - on the contrary: it opens up new technical perspectives and creates real added value for our members.”
