Swiss Machinery Manufacturers’ Association (Swissmem), one of world’s most important machinery manufacturers, gathers textile machinery, spare part, accessory and service manufacturers under one roof since the day its establishment in 1940. Cornelia Buchwalder, General Secretary of Swissmem which has been offering service for textile sector for about 80 years, answered the questions of our publication group.
What kind of approach-methodology does Swissmem members work through in terms of quality and technological development?
Our industry has worked hard for its today quality reputation. We can look back many years, decades even centuries as the textile machinery sector is one of the oldest-established Swiss industries. Many of the companies in our association of textile machinery manufacturers were founded in the second half of the 19th century, have gone through many ups and downs and have gained outstanding reputation over time. Having such a long history, the Swiss companies have constantly managed to anticipate changes, developed their business strategy and have continuously evolved. For sure, Swiss companies will also play an eminent role in the world of tomorrow. The ability to innovate and adapt to a changing environment will ensure that Swiss technology and solutions stay indispensable – mainly for high-end and custom tailored solutions.
R&D is part of the DNA of Swiss companies. This is why Switzerland is the leading nation for innovation for the seventh year in a row, according to the Geneva-based World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO). Switzerland has held the top spot since 2011. R&D and sustainability aspects go hand in hand and cover the following four aspects: environmental, economic, social and cultural. Often the environmental aspect is primarily taken into consideration. But the other aspects are as important. Machines that improve safety, minimize waste, consume less energy and deliver maximum return on investment are designed and produced in a sustainable way. Building such a machine requires a holistic approach analysing operational efficiency, safety, functionality, productivity, material use, ease of operation and maintenance. Our Swiss industry – often ranking as global innovation champion – develops its machines in taking all these aspects into consideration.
What kind of practices Switzerland textile machinery manufacturers engaging with respect to Industry 4.0 and global technologies?
Some years ago we launched a program to support our members in its innovation process. Especially for SME’s we recognise that the task of innovating their portfolio, services and processes is a difficult one. This is mainly due to the lack of resources. Therefore we started an initiative which offers to each of our members to analyse their innovation process and portfolio with an external consultant. This allows them to strengthen their respective capabilities and maybe to even find an additional innovation field outside the traditional textile market. Important is the ability to transform these concepts into marketable products and services. In addition we have just launched Industry 4.0 workshops. We aim to provide to our members support in their Industry 4.0 journey, so they are enabled to develop their products and processes in accordance with the latest needs and with their business strategy.
How would you evaluate 2017 with regards to the global sales generated by the Swissmem Member textile machinery manufacturers?
2017 was a very successful year for the Swiss Textile Machinery manufacturers. The most important export countries were China (+21%), Turkey (+18%), India (-28%), Germany (+10%) and the US (+8%). But these figures only show part of the Swiss Textile Machines being manufactured and installed. Many of the sold machines come from the local production sites around the world and are therefore not shown in the Swiss export statistics.
What is the position of the Turkish market with respect to the Switzerland Textile Machinery Manufacturers?
The expectations for the Turkish market have been fulfilled or even surmounted. Turkey was the number two export market for our Swiss Textile Machinery Manufacturers in 2017. The sales from Switzerland to Turkey increased by 18% versus 2016.
Do you have planned roadshow activities for the 2018?
Our main activities for 2018 are in Uzbekistan, Iran and in China. March 14/15 2018 we will be holding a Swiss Textile Machinery Symposium in Tashkent, Uzbekistan. 15 of our member companies will be participating in this event and will be presenting their latest technologies to the local participants.In addition we will, for the second time, be organising a Swiss Pavilion at Irantex 2018. This joint effort allows our members to present themselves with minimum investment and maximum visibility. And last but not least we will support our Swiss exhibitors at ITMA Asia 2018, held 15-19 October 2018 in Shanghai.
What kind of market-oriented activities or practices do you plan in Turkey for the year 2018?
For 2018 our association is not having an activity in Turkey. But as 2018, most of our Swiss textile machine manufacturer are looking forward to participate in the fair. Turkey is and stays a key market for our industry and our members.
