The German pulp and paper industry’s premier trade event, ZELLCHEMING-Expo 2025, is scheduled to take place from July 1-3 at the RheinMain CongressCenter (RMCC) in Wiesbaden. This year’s edition marks a significant milestone as the association celebrates its 195th anniversary.
The three-day event promises to deliver comprehensive industry insights through a combination of networking opportunities, technical presentations, and forward-looking discussions on industry challenges and opportunities.
Artificial intelligence takes center stage
The symposium will open with a dedicated session on “Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the Paper and Fiber-Based Industry: Future Opportunities and Challenges.” Industry leaders including Maximilian Heindl, CEO of Progroup, Dr. Jörg Padberg, Manager of Digital Transformation at Koehler Innovative Solutions, and Tobias Hundhausen, Director of IT & Digital at Wepa Group, will share their corporate AI strategies.
Dr. Stephan Lock, Head of the Regional Representation for North Rhine-Westphalia, Rhineland-Palatinate, Hesse, and Saarland for the European Commission, will provide the political framework context in his keynote address. Tim Roder from IPAI will discuss how innovation systems can prepare SMEs for future challenges.
Technical program highlights
The expo’s technical program features approximately 25 best practice presentations and four specialized workshops. Notable sessions include:
The ZELLCHEMING Technical Committee Cellulose and Cellulose Derivatives (TC CELL) workshop on Tuesday afternoon will examine the latest findings on pulp, cellulose, and lignocellulosic biomass, moderated by deputy chairwoman Catharina Fechter.
A 60-minute research presentation on dry paper laying techniques will be delivered by Anna Tietjen and Bendix Brüggenjürgen from the Institute of Textile Technology at RWTH Aachen University, covering dry fiber placement approaches and innovative web bonding strategies.
Professional development focus
Beyond technical content, the event includes professional development opportunities. Sigrid Tertinegg will conduct a workshop on LinkedIn optimization and social media networking on July 2, while Bettina Müller will offer a session on work-life balance titled “Health, Career, and Private Life in Harmony” on the final day.
Women4Paper initiative
The Women4Paper program will feature a keynote by Vera Strauch titled “Own Your Voice: Leadership Tools for Setting Boundaries with Clarity and Empathy,” developed specifically for women in the pulp and paper industry. The presentation will be followed by a networking lunch at the AFRY booth.
Anniversary celebration
The second evening will feature the ZELLCHEMING Celebration Gala under the theme “Shaping the Future Together!” at the RMCC’s Terrace Hall. The event will honor the association’s history while looking toward future developments, with presentations from both industry veterans and young professionals.
Career day for young talent
The expo concludes with ZELLCHEMING Career Day, beginning with the presentation of the Young Talent Award 2025. The Science Flash segment will showcase research on pulp and paper-based product manufacturing. Using World Café methodology, the event aims to identify and address the needs and aspirations of young industry professionals.
Industry participation
More than 160 exhibitors, sponsors, and partner companies are expected to participate, representing the European pulp and paper industry and its suppliers. The event guide containing detailed information about all participants and sessions is now available for download, with printed copies to be distributed on-site.
The ZELLCHEMING-Expo continues to serve as a crucial platform for knowledge exchange, networking, and business development within the European pulp and paper sector, particularly significant during this anniversary year celebrating nearly two centuries of industry collaboration.
