At the VDA's 24th SME Day on June 5 and 6, a wide range of topics were discussed that are currently affecting medium-sized companies in the supplier industry. Managing directors of suppliers and manufacturers of trailers, bodies and buses accepted the invitation to Bonn.
Leveraging the potential of AI
The focus was on issues relating to artificial intelligence, machine learning and data strategies - their use in production and in tracking supply chains also holds great potential for medium-sized automotive companies. "More and more companies are recognizing and leveraging this potential. The exchange and discussion within the industry is extremely important and valuable," emphasized Arndt G. Kirchhoff, Chairman of the Advisory Board of the Kirchhoff Group and VDA Vice President, in his welcoming speech. During the event, he handed over the office of Chairman of the VDA SME Forum to Isabelle Kirschbaum-Rupf, partner and member of the management of the Rupf Industries Group and member of the VDA Board.
Guests from industry, business and politics
The transformation of the automotive industry towards climate neutrality and digitalization as well as the intensifying international competition are particularly challenging for medium-sized automotive companies. This is why the key challenges, ideas and solutions for a successful future took center stage and were discussed with experts from the industry, business, science and politics
Keynote by Minister President Hendrik Wüst
"Whether in the construction of cars, trailers and bodies or the manufacture of supplier parts: The engine of the German automotive industry is at work in North Rhine-Westphalia. The supplier industry in particular demonstrates the innovative potential of our state," said Hendrik Wüst, Minister President of North Rhine-Westphalia, in his keynote speech on the first day of the conference. Afterwards, Wüst went on a tour of the exhibition with Hildegard Müller, Oliver Zipse and Arndt G. Kirchhoff.
Start-up pitches
Six start-ups took part in the 'Start-up Pitches' competition this year. In the pitches, each start-up presented its AI solution briefly and concisely and explained where it sees opportunities for cooperation with SME suppliers. The next VDA SME Day will take place in Bonn on May 21 and 22, 2025.
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