WEIG FORUM 2026: Sustainability and Innovation as Key Drivers of Competitiveness
NEWS
Mayen, April 22, 2026 – Around 160 participants from various industries and countries gathered in mid-April for the WEIG FORUM 2026 to discuss key future challenges facing the industry. The focus was on increasing regulatory requirements, economic uncertainties and growing pressure to innovate – and on the question of how companies can remain competitive under these conditions.
One key takeaway from the event: sustainability and innovation are not opposing forces, but essential prerequisites for long-term business success.
Platform for Exchange and New Perspectives
In addition to expert presentations, the WEIG FORUM provided ample opportunity for personal exchange. The aim is to generate cross-industry impulses and jointly develop solutions to current challenges.
Insights from Business, Research and Practice
The program covered a wide range of topics:
- Moritz J. Weig opened the forum with an overview of current economic and geopolitical challenges. He emphasized that companies must act now to actively address risks and shape their future.
- Business futurist Sven Göth explained why innovation has become a key competitive factor and how companies can strengthen their innovative capabilities.
- Prof. Dr. Michael Grömling (IW Cologne) provided an economic outlook and highlighted the importance of a technology-friendly environment for sustainable prosperity.
- Gerd Krause (KPMG) shared insights into upcoming regulatory requirements related to EmpCo and UWG and emphasized the importance of credible sustainability claims.
- Lydia Tempel (PTS) explained how regulatory developments such as the PPWR are driving new packaging innovations.
- Daniel Kochann (ESCH) demonstrated how companies can use sustainability and innovation to clearly differentiate themselves in the market.
- The WEIG Talk, featuring Sustainability Manager Dr. Marina Maier and Innovation Manager Anna Anderson-Elzer, illustrated how these guiding principles are implemented in everyday business at WEIG.
Insights into Production and Circular Economy
On the previous day, participants gained practical insights into production processes and circular economy practices during a plant tour at the Mayen site. A joint dinner also provided an opportunity for in-depth exchange.
Shaping the Future Together
The combination of expert presentations and hands-on experience underlines the WEIG FORUM’s ambition to connect theory and practice. Once again, the WEIG FORUM 2026 demonstrated how important industry dialogue is in successfully addressing current challenges.