As previously announced, the next ISTMA Europe meeting will be held in Bologna, Italy, on March 4 and 5, 2026. Industry leaders and delegates are encouraged to mark their calendars for what promises to be a pivotal gathering for the European tooling community.
This event will be hosted by our Italian member, UCISAP, and will feature a comprehensive workshop with podium discussions, exclusive technical visits, and networking activities. Running concurrently with the MECSPE Exhibition, the meeting offers a unique platform to discuss the future of the industry under the theme: "Shaping the Future of Tooling: Challenges, Markets and Opportunities".
Event Schedule
Tuesday, March 3
Arrival in Bologna
Wednesday, March 4
Visit to MecSpe show
11:00 AM | ISTMA Europe reunion – exclusive for National Association representatives
ISTMA Europe Workshop "Shaping the Future of Tooling: Challenges, Markets and Opportunities"
2:00 PM | Opening & Welcome – Introduction to the Conference – Andrea Digirolamo, President of UCISAP
2:10 PM | "Business Outlook and Transformation in Tooling" - Stephan Berz, President of ISTMA Europe
2:35 PM | "Study on the Toolmaking Industry" - Thomas Eberius, Head of Department, RWTH Aachen University
3:45 PM | "Focus on the Automotive Market" - Marco Stella, Vice President of ANFIA
4:15 PM | "Focus on the Defence Market" - Francisco Cudell
4:45 PM | "ISTMA World: Global Perspectives and Initiatives" - Bob Williamson, President of ISTMA World
5 PM | Experts Round Table, moderated by Stephan Berz, President of ISTMA Europe
Networking Dinner in Bologna
Thursday, March 5
Visit to a toolmaking company (to be announced)
Visit to Pagani Automobili
Lunch
Departure of Attendees
Event Venue
Congress Center of BolognaFiere (Piazza Costituzione, 4/a, Bologna).
Participation Fee: 150€ per person.
Suggested Hotels: * Mercure Bologna Centro (City center)
The Sydney Hotel (Bologna Fair District)
National Associations are encouraged to invite their members to participate in all activities. Aside from the Wednesday morning reunion, the program is open to all delegates looking to align with the European tooling community's strategic goals.
Registration
Secure your participation by completing the registration form at the link below:
