September 2024: Future Festival | Draghi Report and much more.

Number of the Month

EU Competitiveness: Looking Ahead—The Draghi Report

The European Commission has identified competitiveness as a key issue for the upcoming legislative term. To kick things off, the commissioned competitiveness report was published in September. The report also includes references to medical technology, though in the context of the pharmaceutical industry.

The Commission aims for inclusive economic growth, focusing on sustainable competitiveness, economic security, open strategic autonomy, and fair competition. According to the EU publication, sustainable competitiveness is intended to ensure that companies operate in a way that is both productive and environmentally friendly. Economic security ensures that the European economy can overcome challenges and protect jobs. Through open strategic autonomy, Europe not only remains an open market for businesses but also actively works toward a more just world.

Consequently, Mario Draghi, former president of the European Central Bank and one of Europe’s most renowned economists, was commissioned by the European Commission to draft a report outlining his vision for the future of European competitiveness. This report addresses the challenges facing industry and businesses in the single market.

The findings of this report will inform the Commission’s work on developing a new plan for sustainable prosperity and competitiveness in Europe. Of particular importance is the development of the new Clean Industrial Deal for competitive industries and high-quality jobs, which is to be presented within the first 100 days of the Commission’s new term.

Download the reports from the European Commission's website:
The Future of European Competitiveness – A Competitiveness Strategy for Europe
The Future of European Competitiveness – In-Depth Analysis and Recommendations

For more information on this topic, click here.

SPECTARIS Trend Forum 24/25: The Big Optometry Bonfire in Berlin Is Just Around the Corner

The 23rd SPECTARIS Trend Forum will take place in Berlin on November 4. Once again, the event offers the industry a great opportunity to network and gain valuable insights. New this year is a workshop on the topic “Screening: Now or Never!,” which will take place the day before and will be led by expert Petra Lindner. In addition, participants can look forward to a keynote address by Dr. Claudia Major on the global political situation, a session on the shortage of skilled workers, and a whirlwind tour of the future of social media (“Social Media 2025 and Beyond: What’s Next?”). Germany’s 2024 Soccer Referee of the Year, Deniz Aytekin, will highlight the importance of a respectful leadership style in a time of constant change. Finally, to conclude the event, long-time Bundestag President Wolfgang Thierse will, in the year marking the 75th anniversary of the Basic Law, speak in his own unique way about the dangers of social division and discuss ways to counteract them. Tickets are still available—and more information can be found at spectaris-trendforum.de.

Update to the "TALKING CARDS": SPECTARIS Medical Technology and Health 2024 / 2025 - Figures and Recommendations

Our TalkingCards have been updated and now include the latest facts and figures on the medtech industry. We have also updated the economic, health, and research policy recommendations from SPECTARIS-Medizintechnik on the back. The Talking Cards are primarily designed to enable members to participate effectively in health policy discussions with their direct political contacts and to make their case using the key facts and demands of the industry. You can download the updated version of our Talking Cards here.

The overviews are also available as PowerPoint presentations and can be ordered—as can the printed copies—from the office (mallok@spectaris.de) as needed. The English version will be updated and available at the turn of the year.

Industry Day of the SPECTARIS Trade Association for Analytical, Biotech, and Laboratory Technology

On September 17, 2024, members of the Professional Association for Analytical, Biotechnology, and Laboratory Technology (ABL) gathered in Berlin for the Industry Day as part of the SPECTARIS Future Festival. The event focused on market research, regulatory affairs, and foreign trade. The Spectaris team, together with our ABL Chairman Mathis Kuchejda, led the event.

Harald Hartmann provided an overview of the industry's economic situation. The eurozone—and Germany in particular—is lagging behind, but companies are optimistic about the future, both in their domestic and international business.

In Regulatory Affairs, we focused on current topics such as the NIS 2 Directive. The AI Act and cybersecurity were also discussed. Sophie Leddig spoke about the Ecodesign Regulation, the Digital Product Passport, and the new Battery Regulation. Moritz Anthofer reported on our activities regarding the F-Gas Regulation, an example of collaboration between members and the association in political communication.

Antje Schönfelder provided information on the new sanctions package and export controls, as well as the long processing times at the BAFA. Janina Bolling presented the current status of the openly accessible Laboratory & Analytical Device Standard (OPC UA LADS).

Following the review, the participants discussed the future direction and potential support with the SPECTARIS team. We will continue to focus on the topics “Laboratory of the Future,” “Sustainability,” and “Startups: New Ideas for the Next Generation.”

Please mark your calendars for the next Industry Day on May 12 and 13, 2025, at NETZSCH-Gerätebau GmbH. Thank you to all participants for the constructive discussions and your commitment!

Infographics as Sales Boosters: How to Create Strong Visual Anchors for Your Offers

In an increasingly visual world, it is crucial to present products and services clearly and persuasively. Infographics offer the perfect way to communicate complex information in a simple and memorable way. But how can you ensure that these visual representations not only look good but also leave a lasting impression on your customers’ minds?

In our exclusive two-day workshop with Jan Schwochow, one of the leading experts in this field, you’ll learn how to use infographics strategically to boost sales. Schwochow, who has about 30 years of experience in infographic design and visual storytelling, will show you how to design your offerings visually so that they leave a lasting impression on your customers.

The workshop will take place on November 14 and 15, 2024, in Berlin and is intended for experts from your company or graphic design agency who work in the field of visual communication for technical products and topics. The number of participants is limited to 15—so please register as soon as possible to secure your spot.

Registration is open until November 1, 2024 here .

Diversification Strategies for Medical Device Manufacturers: Expansion into Switzerland – Webinar on October 10

With approximately 1,400 manufacturers, suppliers, distributors, and service providers, Switzerland has the highest number of medical technology companies per capita in Europe. Western Switzerland, also known as the Health Valley, is internationally recognized as a preferred location for companies in the life sciences sector. With its expertise in medical technology, the region offers a first-class location for companies looking to expand their global operations and benefit from Switzerland’s reputation for quality and innovation in the life sciences industry.

SPECTARIS and the Greater Geneva Bern Area (GGBa) cordially invite you to the webinar “Diversification Strategies for Medical Technology Manufacturers: Expansion into Switzerland” on October 10, 2024, from 10:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., to learn more and engage in a discussion with the experts. Participation is free of charge.

You can find the registration form and further information about the event here (registration deadline: October 8, 2024).