The valve industry can look back on a challenging year in 2024. As a driving force for innovations and trend topics, Valve World Expo 2024 could set the course for future growth.
Between December 3 and 5, 2024, Düsseldorf was once again transformed into the center of the global valve and fittings industry by the VALVE WORLD EXPO. The trade fair offered a comprehensive presentation of the industry, including the most advanced technologies for the process industry as well as sustainable solutions and products for various customer industries.
The event was held against a backdrop of economic tensions. By the end of September 2024, German manufacturers of industrial valves recorded a nominal decline in sales of 4%, while foreign business experienced a nominal increase of 11%. Overall, turnover rose by 5% in nominal terms in the first nine months of the year, which corresponded to a decline of 1% in real terms.
The outlook remains subdued, as real incoming orders up to the end of September were 6% below the previous year's level. The weak economy in Europe and uncertainties on the international markets continue to influence industry sentiment.
“VALVE WORLD EXPO is currently more important than ever for our industry. Especially in a mixed market environment like this, we need positive impetus and exchange in order to strengthen our innovative power and competitiveness,” says Axel Weidner, Chairman of the Valves Association and shareholder of Mankenberg GmbH. “We are convinced that the valve industry is an enabler for future topics such as the energy transition, hydrogen, clean water and the circular economy.”
Trade fair as a source of inspiration
After a successful previous year, the export business for industrial valves remained stable in the first three quarters of 2024, with exports abroad worth around EUR 4 billion. This corresponds to a nominal increase of 0.8% compared to the same period last year.
Exports to China in particular, the most important customer country, recorded a significant increase of 14.7% and reached a value of EUR 497 million. The export business with the USA, the second largest trading partner, also grew slightly by 1.7% to 414 million euros. In contrast, exports to France fell by 8.0%, although France remains the third most important sales market.
It remains to be seen whether the industry will be able to continue its successful course abroad in 2025. “VALVE WORLD EXPO could also provide important impetus here, as we are expecting numerous visitors from all over the world,” comments Dr. Laura Dorfer, Managing Director of the VDMA Valves Association.
In addition to new products and technical innovations, the trade fair also focused on forward-looking topics such as digitalization, automation and sustainability.
