GENERAL NEWS
Wilson Tool acquires PASS Stanztechnik AG
Paul Johnson , CEO , Wilson Tool Enterprises .
Wilson Tool International , the largest independent manufacturer of tooling systems for punch presses , press brakes and punch and die components for the stamping industry , has confirmed the acquisition of PASS Stanztechnik AG . Established in 1982 , PASS is a manufacturer of precision punch press tooling based in Creußen , Germany . PASS provides punching tools and custom solutions that are compatible with TRUMPF , Salvagnini and Thick Turret systems worldwide .
This strategic acquisition strengthens Wilson Tool ’ s extensive product portfolio , service , manufacturing capabilities and ability to deliver solutions and support to customers worldwide . The combination of the two companies will boost Wilson Tool ’ s presence in the European market and enable PASS to expand its technology tool set and accelerate its buildout of a more extensive global footprint . The combined strength of their respective patent catalogues , global design teams and manufacturing capabilities will extend a strong history of innovation and delivery of technological advancements for both companies .
There will be no immediate operational changes for either company . Customers , partners and employees , said Wilson Tool , will experience no disruption in their current business activities . Moving forward , the combined entity will concentrate on global expansion , offering a broader range of solutions , and continuous improvement for delivery , support and innovation .
Paul Johnson , CEO of Wilson Tool Enterprises , remarked : “ This acquisition underscores our ongoing commitment to the punching industry and ushers in a new era of growth and innovation for both companies .
Promoting diversity in robotics
“ One of the most pressing issues we face globally is the shortage of skilled labour . Industries across various sectors are struggling to fill positions , and this gap continues to widen . Robotisation presents a viable and necessary solution to this problem , enhancing productivity , efficiency and safety in workplaces . By integrating robotics into more areas of operation , we can mitigate the impact of labour shortages and ensure sustained economic growth and stability ,” commented Marina Bill , President of the IFR ( International Federation of Robotics ).
“ Furthermore , the World Bank predicts that GDP per capita would be almost 20 per cent higher , on average , if female employment were increased to be the same as that of men ’ s . In response , the IFR has launched its initiative ‘ IFR ’ s Women in Robotics : 10 Women Shaping the Future of Robotics ’. Robotics is a fascinating field and my clear message is that there is a great future for women in this industry . Every year , the robotics ecosystem grows more and we want to set a benchmark in terms of gender equality ,” she added .
Recognizing the vast potential and talent pool that women represent , the programme is designed to encourage and support women in pursuing careers in robotics .
Image : Shutterstock . com .
The IFR has selected an initial group of ten women – all with different backgrounds , at different career steps and different companies around the globe – for special visibility throughout this year .
“ This initiative is not just a step towards gender equality but a strategic move to diversify and enrich the workforce . By empowering women and promoting inclusivity , we can harness a broader range of perspectives and ideas , driving innovation and excellence in robotics ,” said the IFR .
“ It will become an annual activity , to inspire other young women to decide to study STEM subjects . Long term , this should support all our members ’ efforts to bridge the gender gap and meet the rising labour demand in our industry ,” it concluded . n
https :// ifr . org /
As family-owned businesses , Wilson Tool and PASS AG share foundational values centred on customer service , quality , innovation and the wellbeing of our employees . I am excited to work with Michael and his team to extend our market leadership together .”
Michael Bauer , CEO of PASS Stanztechnik AG , added : “ I firmly believe that this sale from one entrepreneurial family to the next is essential for the strategic growth of PASS Stanztechnik AG . By joining the Wilson Group , PASS Stanztechnik AG gains access to a larger global distribution network , which in turn enables support for our OEM partners and customers around the world . This paves the way for higher growth rates in the coming years and further secures our location in Germany .” n
www . wilsontool . com
www . pass-ag . com
UK Metals Expo 2024 profiles supply chain
UK Metals Expo took place on 11-12 September 2024 at the NEC exhibition centre in Birmingham , UK .
“ The event wrapped up with resounding success , surpassing all expectations . The overwhelmingly positive feedback has laid a strong foundation for an even larger show next year . It attracted 300 exhibitors and over 7,000 professionals from 51 countries . Many attendees secured new partnerships and contracts . It also fostered valuable connections across the entire metals supply chain and saw a 51 % increase in attendance with a satisfaction score of 8.3 out of 10 ,” announced the show organiser .
“ The diversity of industries represented — from aerospace and automotive to construction and renewable energy — demonstrates the Expo ’ s central role in connecting the entire metals supply chain . This year ’ s exhibitors showcased modern solutions tailored to a wide variety of sectors ,” it added .
The 2025 Expo will include new features such as custom workshops , live demonstrations and a greater focus on emerging technologies such as AI and automation . UK Metals Expo 2025 will return to the NEC , Birmingham ( UK ) on 10-11 September 2025 . n
www
. ukmetalsexpo . com
14 | ismr . net | ISMR October 2024