New ideas are crucial as we seek solutions for future challenges

Volvo’s announcement that it will produce no cars powered solely by an internal combustion engine after 2019 will not be the last such move from vehicle manufacturers. We will learn over the next decade what this means for remanufacturers. The reman industry is nothing if not adaptable. Yet while companies are used to innovating, innovation comes at a price - which is why in this issue of ReMaTecNews we examine where you can get the funding to make your ideas a reality.

Speaking of ideas, there was no shortage of them at ReMaTec 2017 in Amsterdam. The show was an invigorating three days of information exchange, networking and – above all – the chance to connect with fellow reman professionals from all over the world. Reman solutions and best practice were in evidence on the busy stands and in a packed speaker programme. Every facet of the remanufacturing industry was on display, with a number of new sectors making their show debuts. And don’t forget to check out our online coverage, which includes product news and exclusive videos, at www.rematec.com.

It was a privilege, as chairman of the Remanufacturer of the Year jury, to hand the coveted trophy – for the first time - to two people: Salvador Munoz Zarate of Wabco Reman Solutions and Peter Bartel of Circular Economy Solutions. Their tireless work in promoting an understanding of the industry with policy makers is something for which we should all be thankful. Someone else was celebrated at ReMaTec: Fernand Weiland, who founded APRA Europe, was given honorary membership of the association as a mark of respect for his great service. His experience in, and enthusiasm for, reman is exemplary.

On a personal note, I am deeply grateful for his courtesy, good humour, support and constant openness to new ideas. The industry is fortunate to have him as an advocate. Elsewhere in ReMaTecNews: everyone knows the name Rolls-Royce – but fewer people know that the famous luxury car manufacturer is also a leading player in the world of aviation reman. Our interview with the group’s chief of materials engineering, Nick Weeks, offers an intriguing insight into its activities.

There’s plenty more to read too. As ever, please get in touch at editorial@rematecnews.com with your thoughts and feedback. We’d love to hear from you.

Check out the full online version of ReMaTecNews, edition 4 here.