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Valvitalia Group wins $30 million contract for US Desert Southwest gas pipeline

The order strengthens the order backlog, which has risen to €263 million. GOVERNANCE: GROUP'S CORPORATE BODIES RENEWED FOR THE NEXT THREE-YEAR PERIOD The supply concerns 94 large diameter valves that will be manufactured in the Rivanazzano Terme plant and that will be used for a new 840 km infrastructure that will connect Texas to New Mexico and Arizona. President Salvatore Ruggeri: "This award confirms our ability to participate in major international energy infrastructure programs and leverages the industrial know-how developed in Italy." Executive Vice President Massimiliano Ruggeri: "The Americas are an increasingly central market for the Group and offer interesting prospects for further growth in the medium to long term." The Valvitalia Group announces that it has been awarded a new contract valued at approximately $30 million for the supply of valves for the Desert Southwest project, one of the most significant energy infrastructure projects currently under development in the Southwest United States. The order concerns the production of 94 48-inch valves, which will be entirely designed and manufactured at the Rivanazzano Terme (PV) industrial site, confirming the central role of Made in Italy and the Group's technological expertise in the creation of highly complex solutions for major international energy projects. Delivery of the supply is scheduled for 2027. The order acquisition contributes to the growth of the Group's order book, which has risen to approximately €263 million, and further strengthens Valvitalia's positioning in the Americas, currently the Group's primary destination market. Overall, orders from North and South America account for over 37% of total bookings, confirming the continent's strategic importance for business development. To support its commitment in the region, the Group can also count on the presence of Valvitalia USA staff in Houston, Texas. Led by Massimiliano Ruggeri, the organization ensures stable coverage of the American market and supports Valvitalia's development efforts in a region of primary global importance. Salvatore Ruggeri , President of Valvitalia, commented: "Winning this important contract confirms the trust our clients place in the expertise, reliability, and quality of the solutions we design and implement. Participating in a strategic infrastructure project like Desert Southwest means making a concrete contribution to the energy development of a rapidly growing area and, at the same time, confirms our ability to successfully participate in major international infrastructure programs. This result enhances the wealth of expertise we have built over the years and the crucial contribution of our people. The quality of our order backlog allows us to look confidently to future growth prospects and confirms the validity of our path, supported by an increasingly qualified presence in energy markets with the greatest potential." Massimiliano Ruggeri , Executive Vice President of Valvitalia, stated: "This award is an important recognition of the work we've done over the years to consolidate our presence in the Americas and strengthen relationships with leading energy sector operators. The US continues to be a key market for Valvitalia and offers exciting development opportunities, supported by significant investments in energy infrastructure. At the same time, we are continuing our growth in South America, where we see favorable prospects for business expansion. The quality of the opportunities and ongoing dialogue with leading clients allow us to confidently look forward to the evolution of our presence in the region." Desert Southwest The US infrastructure, estimated at $5.6 billion, will extend for approximately 840 kilometers, connecting the Permian Basin, one of North America's most important hydrocarbon fields located between West Texas and New Mexico, to end-use markets in the southwestern United States, particularly Arizona and New Mexico. The pipeline's construction will meet the region's growing energy demand, supporting population growth and regional economic development. Dedicated Gas Pipeline Furthermore, among the most recent and significant opportunities in South America, there is the supply of valves for the Gasoducto Dedicado project in Argentina, a 480-kilometer gas pipeline under construction in the Province of Neuquén. The leadership of the group has been confirmed for the next three years. Valvitalia's Shareholders' Meeting and Board of Directors also renewed the Group's governing bodies for the three-year period 2026-2028, confirming the continuity of the governance that has accompanied the development and growth path of recent years. Salvatore Ruggeri was confirmed as President, Massimiliano Ruggeri as Executive Vice President, and Andrea Forzi as Chief Executive Officer. The new Board of Directors also includes Manuela Carra, Angela Colmellere, Paolo Rinaldi, and Manuela Sabbatini. Franco Gianni and Andrea Alghisi will also participate in the Board of Directors' meetings as observers. At the same time, the new Board of Statutory Auditors was appointed, composed of Micol Marisa as President, Annalisa Zanini and Giuseppe Galeano as effective Auditors. The renewal of these positions ensures strategic and managerial continuity for the Group at a time marked by a growing international presence and significant development opportunities in its key markets.

AI in manufacturing: from pilot to practical application

Artificial intelligence as a central theme at AMB 2026 // Guido Reimann, VDMA, discusses opportunities, challenges and current developments At AMB, the international trade fair for metalworking, taking place in Stuttgart from September 15 to 19, 2026, Artificial Intelligence (AI) will be one of the three main topics, alongside automation and the circular economy. We discussed the progress made by the industry and the useful insights decision makers can draw from AMB 2026 with Guido Reimann. He is Deputy General Manager of VDMA Software and Digitalization and Coordinator of the VDMA Competence Network on Artificial Intelligence. AMB: AI was a hotly debated topic at AMB 2024. Where does the metalworking industry stand today, in 2026? Has AI become a standard practice, or are pilot projects still prevalent? Guido Reimann: For the mechanical and plant engineering sector in general, as well as for manufacturers of precision tools and machine tools, the topic of artificial intelligence has gained further importance. A VDMA survey in spring 2026 revealed that over 80% of mechanical engineering companies attach great importance to artificial intelligence technologies. Around a third of companies are already using AI solutions in production. This means the era of pilot projects is over. We are seeing increasing practical application of AI. Furthermore, many pilot projects continue to be conducted within companies to further familiarize themselves with the technology and test new application possibilities. Current business application areas related to manufacturing focus on software development, engineering and design, business management, IT, marketing, and communications. Artificial intelligence solutions are also increasingly being used in sales and product-related services for customers in the mechanical engineering industry. To fully leverage their potential, companies must focus on their digitalization and promote it strategically. AMB: The mechanical and plant engineering sector expects a tangible increase in efficiency thanks to AI. What specific figures and success stories do you know in the metalworking industry? And what are the main obstacles to implementation? Guido Reimann: AI-based solutions and approaches not only promise increased efficiency, they also ensure it along the entire value chain. This is reflected, for example, in the reduction of costs for producing technical documentation and user manuals, in the time and cost savings in purchasing by increasing the number of identical components and thus improving purchasing conditions, or in the reduction of unplanned downtime, for example on machine tools, where cost savings of 10 to 20% are possible. Furthermore, AI solutions can significantly accelerate processes in many areas: development, production, sales, and customer service. Comprehensive and sustainable digitalization is a fundamental prerequisite for the use of artificial intelligence and other digital technologies. However, obstacles often include change management, slow implementation, and a lack of human resources. Projects often fail less due to technical issues than to organizational difficulties, inadequate decision-making structures, poor engagement, insufficient knowledge of applications and limitations, and other non-technical factors. And even in the case of AI, it's true that not all pilot projects are successful. The crucial factor is knowing when to stop and redirect limited resources towards more effective digitalization activities. AMB: Which AI technologies and application areas do you believe will dominate AMB 2026, and why is participation in AMB 2026 essential for metalworking professionals interested in AI? Guido Reimann: In traditional product development and design, as well as in software development, we are now seeing numerous AI-based solutions offered by the software industry. At the same time, many mechanical engineering companies have integrated AI technologies into their related products or services, making them available for metalworking. At AMB, industry professionals will find not only manufacturers and suppliers of production machinery, but also software and service providers that support seamless implementation along the entire value chain. AMB: Industrial AI, the European AI Regulation, humanoid robotics, quantum computing: the agenda is getting busier. What developments should decision makers in the metalworking industry definitely keep an eye on over the next five years? Guido Reimann : It's true that the range of technologies, applications, and regulatory requirements relevant to the digital sector is constantly expanding. This also means that equipment manufacturers and application industries must keep pace with this change. Digital technologies are not only becoming increasingly important for internal business processes, but are also significantly influencing companies' business models. Those who are new to new digital technologies and their potential applications within their own company and in their customers' industries can lay the foundation for future success well in advance. A VDMA survey from spring 2026 also shows that mechanical engineering companies are focusing intensively on the following three technologies and intend to expand their use: artificial intelligence, digital twins, and open source software. AMB: Thank you for the interview, Mr. Reimann. Artificial Intelligence at the heart of the program For those who want to delve deeper into the topic of AI at AMB 2026, not only by visiting the exhibition stands but also by interacting directly with experts, the AMB Stage offers two special opportunities on Wednesday, September 16: From 12:00 to 1:30 p.m., VDMA Software und Digitalisierung invites you to a panel discussion entitled "Artificial Intelligence in Production - Practical Examples." This will be followed at 2:00 p.m. by the presentation "AI in Production - From Impact to Added Value," featuring industry, research, and application professionals who will discuss current developments, concrete application examples, and open questions related to the use of AI in mechanical processing. The AMB Stage is located in the atrium (EO010) at the east entrance. About AMB Since 1982, AMB has presented the highlights of the international metalworking industry. "Where metal comes alive" will also be a regular event on the industry's agenda in 2026, this year from September 15 to 19. It is the international marketplace and meeting place for metal cutting, showcasing the latest products, technologies, innovations, services, and concepts in all their facets. AMB is supported by the VDMA Precision Tools, VDMA Software and Digitalization, and the VDW Verein Deutscher Werkzeugmaschinenfabriken e.V. (German Machine Tool Builders' Association). Further information is available at www.amb-messe.de/

Machine tools: Economic recovery remains fragile due to persistent structural pressures

CECIMO examined the challenges the sector will face in 2026 and discussed future risks and opportunities, in a context still characterized by political and economic uncertainty. Economic situation and prospects In 2025, the European machine tool sector continued to face a challenging economic environment, with weak demand and increased global competition putting pressure on CECIMO member companies. European machine tool production is estimated to have decreased by approximately 6.6% compared to 2024, reaching €23.5 billion, demonstrating that the slowdown has yet to ease. This trend is also impacting Europe's position in the global market. In 2025, Europe's share of global machine tool production fell to approximately 30.8%, almost 2 percentage points less than the previous year. This trend is particularly worrying when compared to 2023, when Europe accounted for 33.4% of global production. This means that Europe has lost almost 3 percentage points of global production share in just two years, indicating a gradual erosion of its "industrial position." Furthermore, the European machine tool market showed clear signs of weakening when considering consumption levels, which decreased by 3.7% compared to 2024, reflecting lower demand across European countries. Trade flows also declined: exports by European machine tool manufacturers decreased by 8.8%, while imports fell by 4.2%. The main export destinations for European machine tool manufacturers (excluding Europe) are the United States, China, and India. At the same time, when looking at European machine tool import flows, Japan, China, and South Korea continue to be the most significant suppliers. Overall, these developments confirm that the sector has been operating in a challenging economic environment, impacted by slowing investment, persistent uncertainty, geopolitical tensions, and weakening momentum in both European and global markets. Taken together, these factors have reduced demand for machine tools and negatively impacted the operating conditions of CECIMO members. A similar picture emerges when looking at the order levels of the CECIMO8* index. Domestic orders decreased by approximately 1.7% in 2025 compared to 2024, marking the third consecutive year of contraction. By contrast, foreign orders increased by 1.2% over the same period, marking the first year of growth after two consecutive years of decline. CECIMO's projections for 2026 indicate a modest improvement after two consecutive years of declining production and consumption in the European machine tool sector. Consumption and production levels are expected to increase in European countries, suggesting a possible stabilization. CECIMO's estimates for orders indicate an improvement in overall order volumes in the CECIMO8 index countries in 2026. However, this outlook remains fragile and exposed to external shocks and general market conditions and should therefore be interpreted as a transition phase rather than a full recovery. The sector will continue to operate in a highly uncertain environment, characterized by geopolitical tensions and conflicts, trade risks, potential tariff measures, energy market volatility, and weak investment dynamics in major European economies. Since European machine tool manufacturers remain highly exposed to international trade and industrial investment cycles, any deterioration in these conditions could limit the expected recovery and potential future recoveries. At the same time, CECIMO sees potential support from positive spillover effects related to public investment and strategic sectors such as defense, aerospace, electrification, artificial intelligence technologies, and advanced engineering. These sectors could help support demand for advanced and high-precision manufacturing solutions, but their impact will depend on timely implementation and avoiding further delays. A stable trade environment, increased industrial investment, and effective policy measures could mark the beginning of a gradual recovery for the European machine tool sector. Without these conditions, Europe risks further weakening its position in machine tool technologies, while global competitors continue to strengthen their industrial capabilities. "The current situation confirms that Europe cannot take its industrial leadership for granted. European machine tool manufacturers continue to operate in a challenging environment, characterized by declining demand, persistent global uncertainty, and growing competitive pressure. While some opportunities may emerge in strategic sectors, Europe needs a stable policy framework, increased industrial investment, and faster implementation of measures to support advanced manufacturing," commented François Duval, President of CECIMO.

Made in Steel 2027: Exhibition space sales open

Registration is now open for the twelfth edition of the international Conference & Exhibition dedicated to the steel industry. In a European market that is showing signs of stabilization after difficult years, the event confirms itself as a strategic platform for business and discussion between operators in the sector. The exhibition space sales campaign for Made in Steel 2027 , the international event dedicated to the steel industry, has officially begun. Scheduled for May 11, 12, and 13 at Fiera Milano , the event is organized by siderweb in conjunction with Fiera Milano. Interested companies can reserve their space at an event that, year after year, has established itself as an international reference point for steel producers, distributors, traders, service centers, processors, and users. An "Early Bird" option will also be available for exhibitors who book by June 19. The twelfth edition of Made in Steel presents itself with a renewed layout and expanded spaces in pavilions 8, 12 and 16 , designed to welcome an ever-increasing number of companies and promote visibility, networking and business opportunities along the entire steel supply chain. Following the growth of the 2025 edition, which attracted over 19,000 attendees and nearly 400 companies from all over the world, Made in Steel is looking to 2027 with the aim of further consolidating its role as a European platform for discussion, innovation, and development for the sector. "The opening of sales represents the first step towards an edition that aims to position the Italian steel industry in an even more international and business-oriented context," said Made in Steel CEO Paolo Morandi. "In a period of profound transformation for the European steel industry, the biennial event aims to be a place where companies, institutions, and stakeholders can meet to develop new growth opportunities and jointly address the challenges of competitiveness and industrial transition." In addition to the exhibition area, Made in Steel 2027 will also offer a rich program of conferences, round tables, and in-depth discussions dedicated to key topics in the steel industry: market dynamics, regulations, technological innovation, sustainability and the circular economy, geopolitics, and industrial competitiveness. The market context: between first signs of recovery and new competitive challenges The opening of registrations for Made in Steel 2027 comes at a particularly significant time for the European steel market. After three consecutive years of declining demand, the sector is showing signs of stabilization, despite a still highly uncertain environment. According to Eurofer's latest Economic and Steel Market Outlook, apparent steel consumption in the European Union is expected to return to growth in 2026, albeit at a moderate pace, supported by a gradual improvement in industrial activity and investment. However, demand levels remain lower than those recorded before the pandemic, and factors such as high energy costs, geopolitical tensions, and growing competitive pressure from non-European imports continue to weigh on demand. In Italy, the European Union's second-largest steel producer after Germany, companies in the supply chain are undergoing a transition phase that requires significant investments in energy efficiency, digitalization, and decarbonization. At the same time, strengthening strategic sectors such as construction, infrastructure, energy, and advanced manufacturing could help sustain demand in the coming years. Made in Steel is the international conference and exhibition dedicated to the steel industry. It is organized by siderweb - the steel community alongside Fiera Milano. Made in Steel is a conference and exhibition. It offers opportunities for business and reflection, networking and learning. It is both an exhibition showcase and a cultural hub that, with conferences, forums, and roundtables, aims to foster competitive collaboration and the exchange of information, essential elements for business growth. Since 2023, Made in Steel has been certified for sustainable event design and management according to the ISO20121 standard. siderweb - The Steel Community is the only online publication in Italy dedicated entirely to the steel industry. It is a point of reference for industry professionals, thanks to its simple style, focus on in-depth analysis, and objectivity. Since 2009, it has been tracking the prices of raw materials and steel products on the national market every week, now numbering over 60, using a method certified by the Laboratory of Statistics, Data, Methods, and Systems at the University of Brescia. Since 2022, it has published five weekly indices for scrap, carbon steel, long and flat products, and stainless steel. Since 2005, it has organized Made in Steel, the international Conference & Exhibition dedicated to the steel industry, and structured its contents: conferences, interviews, and outlooks.

FASTENER FAIR ITALY 2026: less than a month before the start, the sector is present with over 200 confirmed exhibitors.

With less than a month to go until the opening, Fastener Fair Italy 2026 is already boasting impressive numbers: over 200 exhibiting companies have confirmed their participation in the fifth edition of the event, scheduled for June 24 and 25 at CityLife – Allianz MiCo in Milan. Returning exhibitors include Achilles Seibert, Ambrovit, Bontempi VIBO, Bralo Italia, DIV GROUP, Fastbolt, Flaig + Hommel, Inox Viti, Milani Enrico, Profiroll Technologies, R+FK Schulte, Rotor Clip, Strubl, The Magni Group, and Yuyao Alfirste Hardware, a concrete sign of the industry's confidence in the event. A point of reference for manufacturers, wholesalers, distributors, and end users, the trade show covers the entire fastening systems supply chain: from fasteners and bolts (both industrial and construction) to assembly and installation systems, through production technologies, storage and distribution equipment, and information and communication services. This broad scope is designed to reflect the transversality of a sector that touches virtually every industrial segment. "We can't wait to open the doors to this fifth edition. The exhibitors' response confirms that, even in a challenging time for the European industry, the value of direct contact remains irreplaceable: this is where the ideas, partnerships, and opportunities that drive the market are born," says Stephanie Cerri, Events Director of Fastener Fair Italy. The fastening systems industry is undergoing profound transformation. The pressures of recent years, from geopolitical tensions to raw material volatility to the redefinition of supply chains, have pushed manufacturers and suppliers to accelerate the adoption of more efficient and resilient solutions. The results are visible: fastening systems integrated with sensors for real-time performance monitoring, new alloys and composite materials that combine lightness and strength, increasingly automated production lines where digitalization is no longer a future goal but a concrete reality. In this scenario, direct contact with manufacturers and innovators is valuable beyond any catalog or technical sheet. With approximately 3,700 professionals expected to attend, Fastener Fair Italy 2026 offers the concentration of expertise, products, and decision-makers needed to navigate a rapidly evolving market. The exhibitor directory, already available online, allows you to plan your visit in advance, identify the most relevant suppliers, and arrange targeted meetings. To support the event's visibility, a consolidated network of international media partners—Expometals, Fasten.it, Fastener + Fixing Magazine, Fastener World, Galvanotecnica, and Italy Export, among others—help keep the global industry community connected well beyond the two-day event. Buy your ticket and meet the main exhibitors of screws, bolts, and fastening systems in Milan. Visitor information and opening hours Fastener Fair Italy 2026 will be held from June 24th to 25th, 2026, at CityLife - Allianz MiCo . Opening hours are 9:00 am to 5:00 pm on both days of the fair. For more information, visit www.fastenerfairitaly.com Fastener Fair Italy is part of a series of trade events organized by RX for the fastener, bolt, and fixing industry, including Fastener Fair Global, the Fastener Fair brand's flagship event held in Germany, Fastener Fair India, Fastener Fair Mexico, and Fastener Fair USA. Fastener Fair Italy is also on LinkedIn and YouTube: follow us to stay updated on the latest news .

Great response to AMB 2026: Online Exhibitor Directory online

Advanced filter function making it easier to search for information / Grounds plan and AMB app contributing to efficient trade fair planning and visitAll the companies exhibiting at AMB 2026 have been included in the Online Exhibitor Directory on the AMB website, the contents of which can now be filtered according to area of application. Visitors can use this filter to search for themes and applications, with only a few clicks required to find exhibitors, their special areas of interest and the participating experts. These special areas include automotive and vehicle construction, the processing of materials, digitalisation and artificial intelligence, electronics manufacturing, maintenance and service, the recycling economy and sustainability, aerospace engineering, medical technology, defence and defence technology, as well as tool construction and mouldmaking.Trade fair programme at a glance: Themed grounds planStuttgart’s trade fair grounds will be once again clearly structured according to the AMB 2026 themes and therefore particularly easy for visitors to navigate. The halls have been divided into the following areas: Precision Tools are in the L-Bank Forum (Hall 1) and the Ceratizit Halle (Hall 3). Grinding, Gear-Cutting, Inscription and Surface Technology are in Hall 5. Machine Tools and Production Equipment with a focus on Rotating will be found in the Mahle Halle (Hall 4), while the spotlight is on Milling in Hall 7, Hall 9 and the Paul Horn Halle (Hall 10).Hall 9 will also be home to Measurement and Testing Technology, as well as Quality Assurance, while Hall 7 will feature Erosion. Automation and Power Transmission Equipment, as well as Drive Elements, are in the Oskar Lapp Halle (Hall 6). Providers of Software, Digitalisation and Control Systems will be bundled in and before Hall 2 of the ICS International Congress Center Stuttgart. Components, Assemblies and Operating Materials are in the Alfred Kärcher Halle (Hall 8).Most of the programme and special areas will be concentrated in the foyer of the east entrance (Entrance East) which, in combination with the conveniently connected halls, will make it easier for visitors to get their bearings and optimally explore the event. And anyone looking to plan their visit beforehand can now access the hall plans online, which include a full listing of the companies exhibiting. The grounds plan is also available to download on the AMB website.AMB app: All the information you need in an applicationThe popular AMB app has been updated for 2026 and contains all the key information about the event. Visitors can use this app to conveniently access all exhibiting companies in their respective categories, the products and accompanying event programme. The app also includes hall plans with location tracking, as well as the latest news from exhibitors. This app is not only indispensable for any trade fair preparations, but also adds to the experience in the halls and helps guests make the most of their visit. The AMB app is now available to download from the App Store.AMB 2026 occupying all of Stuttgart’s ten trade fair hallsWith a motto boasting “Where metal comes alive”, AMB 2026 remains a driving force for the industry: demand from exhibitors remains high and, as was the case in 2024, all ten trade fair halls on the grounds of Messe Stuttgart are once again fully occupied. “Despite the economic challenges, which have also been felt by the exhibitors, it is clear to see that AMB remains a flagship event for the metal cutting industry and Stuttgart an attractive location for business and personal networking opportunities,” emphasises Romy Arnold, Project Manager for AMB.About AMBAMB has presented the highlights of the international metalworking industry since 1982. “Where metal comes alive”: AMB will also be a fixed date in the industry’s diary in 2026, taking place from 15 to 19 September. AMB is the marketplace and meeting point for the metal cutting industry where the latest products, technologies, innovations, services and concepts are presented in all their forms. AMB is supported by the VDMA Precision Tools Association, the VDMA Software and Digitalisation Association and the German Machine Tool Builders’ Association (VDW).