BUSINESSNEWSLINE
AtlasCopcoGroupLaunchesNewState-Of-The-ArtFacilityInPune
(L-R)Mr.PhilippeErnens,President,CompressorTechniqueBusinessArea,AtlasCopco, Mr.MarceloKabilio,VicePresident-EngineeredSolutions,AtlasCopco,Mr.ThierryMonartVice President Holding India and Bangladesh, Atlas Copco (India) Pvt Ltd, Mr. Kamlesh Panchal – General Manager, Product Company Talegaon, Atlas Copco, and Ben Van Hove –PresidentOilFreeAirDivision,AtlasCopcolightingthelampduringthelaunchingceremonyof thestate-of-the-artfacilityatTalegaon,Pune.
Atlas Copco Group has launched a new manufacturingfacilityinTalegaon,Pune.Spanning approximately270,000sq.ft.,thenewstate-of-the-art plant will manufacture air and gas compressors and systems including CNG (compressed natural gas), biogas,hydrogencompressors,airdryers,N2andO2
The manufacturing facility is built on Industry 4.0 principles, integrating smart manufacturing technologies and sustainability. Approximately 80 percentoftheenergyrequiredforplantoperationswill be sourced from a 1.3 MW rooftop solar system and grid supply. The facility also includes rainwater harvesting and advanced cooling systems. With a strongfocusonsupportforresearchanddevelopment by Atlas Copco Group, the facility is equipped with
Philippe Ernens, President of Compressor Technique Business Area, commented on the announcement of the new facility, “This new facility is equipped with cutting-edge technology to cater to local demand, ensuring shorter lead
generators and medical filters and accessories. The launch,communicatedin2023,reinforcestheGroup's commitment to advancing innovative solutions while delivering high-quality products tailored to the local market.
multiple testing capabilities to meet both current and future production and product development needs. The company is certified with ISO 9001, ISO 45001, ISO14001andISO50001certifications,ensuringthe highest quality, safety, environmental and energy standards,supportedbyarobustinternalauditsystem, quality management systems and Six Sigma methodologies that help improve business processes byreducingerrorsandincreasingefficiency.
times and greater capacity. This enables us to offer a wider range of products, meet market expectations,andprovidebetterlifecyclesupport, further strengthening our commitment to deliveringhigh-qualitysolutions.”
BUSINESSNEWSLINE
L-R)Mr.BenVanHove–PresidentOilFreeAirDivision,AtlasCopco,Mr.MarceloKabilio,Vice President - Engineered Solutions, Atlas Copco, Mr. Kamlesh Panchal – General Manager, Product Company Talegaon, Atlas Copco, Mr. Philippe Ernens, President, Compressor TechniqueBusinessArea,AtlasCopco,andMr.ThierryMonart-VicePresidentHoldingIndia andBangladesh,AtlasCopco(India)PvtLtdduringthelaunchofthestate-of-the-artfacilityin Talegaon,Pune
AtlasCopcoteamduringthelaunchceremony ofthenewfacilityatTalegaon,Pune
AtlasCopcoGroupnewstate-of-the-artfacilityat Talegaon,Pune
Thierry Monart, Vice President - Managing Director, Atlas Copco (India) Pvt Ltd., said, “The launch of our new manufacturing plant marks a significant milestone in Atlas Copco Group's growth journey in India. This facility not only strengthens our commitment to localization but also plays a vital role in driving job creation and skill development in the region. By fostering local talent and innovation, we aim to contribute meaningfully to India's manufacturing ecosystem.”
MARKETANDBUSINESSANALYSIS
Editorial
AtlasCopcoGroupLaunchesNewState-Of-The-ArtFacilityInPune
RAIRetailHRTechSummit2025SpotlightsInnovation,DrivingEfficiency & WorkforceGrowth
Precisionmeetssimplicity
FLUIDPOWER4.0:Experiencethefutureoffluidpower
It’snotjustforserving
ShyamMetalicsExpandsProductLinewithSELTigerRoofingSheets
Innovativesolutionsforaglobalmarket
HyundaiConstructionEquipmententersnewmarketsatBauma
TechnologypartnerforinnovativeOff-Highwayvehicles
Canadaispartnerofchoiceforgreen,digitalandresilientsolutions
Withtheefficiencyturnaroundintotheelectricfuture
Artificialintelligenceacceleratespharmaceuticalproduction
Schaefflerpresentsproductinnovationsforindustry
ThefutureofmaterialssciencewithAI
Emerson’s“FloortoCloud”tosolutionstransformfactories
HindustanZincAchievesIndustryLeadingMilestoneof25% WomeninWorkforce,Targets30%
GenAIDrivenPersonalisation&DigitalInnovationEmergeasKeyMarketing TrendsforFrenchCompaniesatIndo-FrenchChamber’s MaidenMARCOMFest2025
editor-in-chief
Prakashkinny
contributor
ThomasChang
circulation
NoelRodrigues
administration
KAbraham accounts
RameshJain
photography
TonyFernandes
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NavigatingTradeWarsandTariffs: GlobalEconomicOutlookfor2025
As 2025 unfolds, the global economy stands at a pivotal moment, shaped by ongoing trade wars, shifting policies, and geopolitical tensions. The lingering effects of tariffs, introduced during the Trump administration, continue to disrupt international trade, reshaping economic strategies worldwide.
Despitethesechallenges,Chinahasmetits5%growth target, reinforcing its resilience amid external pressures.India,afterabriefslowdown,hasrebounded strongly,provingitsabilitytowithstandglobalshocks. The United States maintains solid growth, though signs of a slight deceleration have emerged. Meanwhile, Japan's slow but steady recovery signals optimismintheregion.
Emerging economies like Brazil and Russia continue their expansion, despite inflation and internal pressures. The Eurozone, while sluggish, shows promise of revival, fueling hopes of sustained economic momentum. With global GDP projected to grow by 3.1% in 2025 and 3.2% in 2026, major nonOECD players—particularly India and China—are expectedtodrivethistrajectory.
For the United States, navigating tariff-related challenges remains a priority. The impact of trade restrictions on businesses and consumers has created inflationaryconcerns,requiringstrategicinterventions by the Federal Reserve. Similarly, Japan's anticipated recoveryin2025iscrucialforregionalstability.
Centralbanksacrosstheglobearetreadingcautiously, adjusting monetary policies to balance growth and inflation.TheFederalReserveandECBareadoptinga measured easing approach, while China and India retain flexibility for further economic stimulus. Conversely, Brazil and Russia may maintain tighter policies,withpotentialshiftslaterintheyear.
India,Pakistan,Bangladesh,Srilanka,Vietnam,Indonesia,Thailand, China,HongKong,USA,Germany,Spain,Italy,U.K.&France
While the global economic outlook remains positive, trade tensions persist. Market players must remain agile and adaptive as policies evolve. Embracing innovation, sustainability, and regional collaboration will be essential for businesses and economies to thrive—notjustsurvive—in2025andbeyond.
RETAILING
RAIRetailHRTechSummit2025SpotlightsInnovation,Driving Efficiency
&WorkforceGrowth
The Retailers Association of India (RAI) successfully organised the Retail HR Tech Summit 2025 at Hall No. 6, Bombay Exhibition Centre(NESCO),Mumbai,bringingtogetherHR leaders, retail industry experts, and technology innovators to redefine the future of workforce management. The summit provided a vital platform for discussions on enhancing employee experience, leveraging HR tech for workforce engagement, and driving productivity through data-drivenstrategies.
Inaneraofrapidtechnologicaladvancementsand evolving workforce expectations, the summit spotlighted the trends and innovative HR solutions shaping the retail industry. Thought leadersandexpertssharedinsightsonfosteringa culture of innovation, integrating emerging technologies into human resource management, and adapting to the changing dynamics of retail HR.
Speaking on the Retail HR Tech Summit 2025, Kumar Rajagopalan, CEO, Retailers AssociationofIndia(RAI),said, “Retail is at its core, a people business. While technology enhances efficiency, HR's true role is to empower and engage a diverse workforce. The future isn't about replacing jobs but evolving skills. By balancing tech with human insight, investing in people, and fostering adaptability, HR leaders candrivebothemployeesatisfactionandbusiness success.”
The highlight of the summit was the Keynote Address by Sunjoy Dhaawan, Vice PresidentHR,DHLExpressIndia.
Emphasizing the critical role of people, growth,
and digitalization in business success, Sunjoy Dhaawan said, “In order to become profitable and stay profitable, managing costs or reducing costs is one of the single most important thing in the minds of not only HR people but also business leaders. Improving supply chain resilience is the second. Becoming more environmentally sustainable is becoming a key priority already with22%peoplerankingitamongstthetop3.And the fourth is growing market share. The HR ask is togettheHRequationright.IfirmlybelievethatP is equal to GQ has to be the equation. What is P here? People. It's the people who will deliver the growth and the quality for you. Technology will also help you to become a great, create the right kind of engagement, both mass as well as customized. But it is also important that you keep abalanceoftechandtouch.Andtherefore,inyour HRequation,Ihaveaddedanotherelement-theD for digitalization is very critical for HR and the business to be able to be successful.And therefore PisequaltoGQplustheD.”
The day-long summit featured a series of engaging panel discussions and roundtable sessions where HR leaders and industry experts exploredthetransformativeroleoftechnologyin retail workforce management. Key discussions included 'The Role of HR Tech in Enhancing EmployeeExperience,''EnhancingtheRoleof TechnologyinLearningandEngagingwiththe Next-Gen Retail Workforce,' and 'HR Metrics That Matter: Using Tech to Measure and Optimize Workforce Productivity.' Additionally, a special session, 'ZingHR.ai & Retail: The Power of One,' provided insights intoAI-drivenHRsolutions.
RETAILING
The summit also hosted dynamic roundtable discussions on 'The Future of Work: Hybrid Models and Tech-Driven Collaboration in Retail,''HRMetricsThatMatter,'and'Fueling Retail'sNextChapterwithHRTech,'fostering knowledge exchange and strategic insights to drivethefutureof HRinretail.
Discussing the evolving role of HR in retail, KhushbooMoondra,DeputyHead-HR,Trent Ltd, said, “So, I think pre-COVID, if we look at retail, it was largely about hiring, recruitment, and matriculation, those were the two main metrics we focused on. It was about understanding employment trends, are people happy, are they not happy? But post-COVID, with thekindofrapidgrowthandtransformationwe've seen, the focus has shifted. Now, it's not just about recruitment but quality recruitment, do we have the right skill sets? Instead of just tracking attrition, we are now looking at how to retain the righttalent.”
Highlighting key enablers in modern retail, P. Senthilkumar, Sr. Partner, Vector Consulting Group, said, “The key enablers, of course, are time to service—6 to 10 minutes flat, irrespective ofwhatyouaregoingtoorderfromthecatalogue. And most importantly, the quantity that you are going to order. No more bulk buying. You can order whatever you want. And of course, the valued customers are the end generations. And they incentivize these guys with instant gratification.”
Highlighting the transformative impact of AI in HR, Haneesh Nambiar, Head - HR, Apollo Pharmacies Ltd, said, “AI has completely
changedthewayweapproachtalentmanagement. Earlier,wejustlookedatrecruitmentsourcesand the number of hires. Now, it's about optimizing costs,identifyingtalent,andassessingemployees beyond just their performance. Does a person have the potential to take on more? Can they multitaskandexpandtheircapabilitiestomeetthe future needs of the organization? Because at the pace we are growing, our HR approach has to evolveaccordingly.”
Retail HR leaders speaking at the summit included,AkashAshesh- Titan Company,Anjali Goel–VMartRetail;BinnyAshish-CelioRetail; Deepali Mathur – Spykar Lifestyles; Haneesh Nambiar–ApolloPharmacies;HariKrishnan.N – Reliance Retail; Kavita Bagwe – BigBasket; Khushboo Moondra – Trent; Neeti Sharma –Adidas; Prasad Rajappan – ZingHR; Rachana Singh – Instituto Marangoni; Raghvendra D Singh – Reliance Retail; Ravi Shankar Singh –Lifestyle International; Sandhydeep Purri –Hardcastle Restaurants; Sandiep Batra – Adani AirportHoldings;SaurabhDeshpande;Shoppers Stop; Udhaya Shankar – Metro Brands; Yogesh Somani–Mr.DIYIndia;amongothers.
TheRetailHRTechSummit2025reinforcedthe growingimportanceoftechnologyinshapingthe future of workforce management in the retail sector. By fostering insightful discussions, knowledge-sharing, and collaboration among industry leaders, the summit served as a catalyst for innovation and strategic growth in HR. As retail businesses continue to evolve, the integrationofHRtechnologywillremaincrucial in enhancing employee experience, driving efficiency,andbuildingafuture-readyworkforce.
RETAILING
GreatPlacestoWork(GPTW)FelicitationbyRAI&BalbirSingh,CEO,GreatPlaceToWork India.
KumarRajagopalan,CEO,RAI.J
RETAILING
LtoRSunjoyDhaawan,DHLExpressIndia;PrashantNair,CromptonGreavesConsumer ElectricalsLtd.;P.Jayakumar,ApolloPharmaciesLtd.;K.Radhakrishnan,StarQuikATATAEnterprise;PrasadRajappan
LtoR_UdhayaShankar,MetroBrandsLtd.;KavitaBagwe,bigbasket;Smitha Satyanarayan,MarksandSpencer,RaghvendraDSingh,Reliance RetailLTD.;SandhydeepPurri,HardcastleRestaurantsPvt.Ltd.;
BUSINESSNEWSLINE
Precisionmeetssimplicity
AnewlydevelopedweldingrobotfromVisioncombinestheflexibleABBGoFa-Cobotwith IPG'sstate-of-the-artpulsedFSSlaserweldingsystem.
VisionRobo-Hawk-ABB
Highlypreciseandextremelyefficient–theFSSlaser weldingrobotfromVisionLasertechnikfürForschung
und Industrie GmbH in Barsinghausen is revolutionizing the manufacturing industry with its groundbreaking technology, according to its developers. Equipped with a state-of-the-art pulsed FSSfiberlaser,thisrobotissettosetanewstandardin termsofprecisionandquality.
Maximumprecision,minimalheatimpact
AccordingtoVision,thepulsedFSSfiberlaseroffers precise and reliable performance while exerting minimalthermalstressontheworkpiece.Thisenables excellentweldqualitywithnodistortionandminimal discoloration of the material. Whether it's delicate welding seams for sensitive components or robust connectionsfordemandingapplications,theFSSlaser welding robot always delivers flawless results, accordingtothemanufacturer.
Versatilityandefficiency
Thanks to its state-of-the-art control technology and
precisemotioncontrol,thelaserweldingrobotisalso extremely versatile. From the automotive to the aerospace industry, from electronics to medical technology – this robot is said to master every challenge with ease. Its high speed and efficiency increaseproductionoutputwhilereducingthecostper weld.
User-friendlinessandreliability
The FSS laser welding robot is not only particularly powerful, but also user-friendly and reliable.With an intuitive user interface and simple programming options,userscaneasilyoptimizetheirmanufacturing processes. In addition, the company promises firstclassmaintenanceandsupporttoensurethatbusiness operations remain largely free from interruption.The additional “teaching” offered is also designed to enable semi-skilled employees to program motion sequencesquicklyandeasily.
Photo:
BUSINESSNEWSLINE
FLUIDPOWER4.0:Experiencethefutureoffluidpower
Immerse yourself in the world of modern drive and fluid technology: the FLUID POWER 4.0 special showinHall5presentsinnovativesolutionsfordigital sustainability. From digital twins to smart energy management systems - experience pioneering technologiesandtheirpracticalapplications.Discover impressivedemonstratorsandtaketheopportunityto exchangeideaswithindustryexperts.
SpecialDisplayFLUIDPOWER4.0
The FLUID POWER 4.0 special display at HANNOVER MESSE 2025 is dedicated to the key theme of "Digital Sustainability". From March 31 to April4,visitorstoHall5willbeabletogainexciting insights into the future of fluid technology. Two impressive applications from the fields of hydraulics and pneumatics will form the focus of this special show and demonstrate how innovative technologies are revolutionizing energy efficiency and sustainabilityinindustry.
Motion&DrivesStage
Thespecialdisplaywillbeflankedbythe"Motion& DrivesStage",whichwillofferdeeperinsightsintothe
latest developments and trends with presentations, keynotes and discussions. Experts will present topics such as digital twins, predictive maintenance, virtual commissioningandthecirculareconomy.Hereitwill becomeclearhowthedigitaltransformationisshaping fluid technology and which solutions support companies in optimizing their processes and making themmoresustainable.
TheoverallconceptoftheFLUIDPOWER4.0special displaypromisesanexceptionalvisitorexperience.In addition to the eye-catchers and the large showcase area, small demonstration stands invite visitors to experiencetechnologiesupclose.Visitorscanfindout about the latest components, systems and automation solutions that impress with their low energy consumption and high efficiency.Aspecial highlight of the special show is the lounge area, which offers space for discussions with industry experts and networking.
Take this opportunity to find out about the latest innovations in fluid technology, gain inspiration for your own work and help shape the future of the industry. Be there and experience how fluid technologyisbeingredefinedbydigitaltechnologies.
BUSINESSNEWSLINE
It'snotjustforserving
Theinnovative8-inchtabletTab-Ex05fromPepperl+Fuchshasuniquedurabilityand accordingtothesupplier,isnottheonlythingsettingnewstandardsin5Gcommunication.
Photo:PepperlFuchsTab-Ex05
Digitalized workflows are increasingly finding their way into the (process) industry. However, mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets that are used in these areas must meet the latest and strictest safety standards and be reliable and easy to use even in the most adverse environmental conditions. With the new Tab-Ex 05,Pepperl+Fuchsisnowlaunchingthefirst5GcapableAndroidtabletwithan8-inchscreenthat is approved for use in Zone 1/21 and Div. 1 (classificationsofhazardousareas).TheAndroid Enterprise Recommended device is based on the Samsung Galaxy Tab Active5 and, according to thesupplier,hasanumberofotherwell-thoughtoutfeatures.
High-performancewithoutcompromise
TheTab-Ex05hassixgigabytesofRAMand128 gigabytesofROM,whichcanbeexpandedtoup tooneterabyteviamicroSD.Italsocomeswitha 13MPcameraonthebackanda5MPcameraon the front that deliver high-resolution images and video recordings. Like its predecessors, the TabEx05alsohasaprogrammablebuttonthatcanbe
used for emergency calls or push-to-talk applications,forexample.TheSPenstyluswitha fine 0.7-millimeter tip complements the userfriendlyoperatingconceptandallowsyoutotake handwritten notes or capture digital signatures whileonthego.
Certifiedforglobaluse
ThelatestadditiontotheTab-Exseriesmeetsthe latest European and international standards and approvals for global use.The base unit Samsung Galaxy Tab Active5 also has the internationally recognized Common Criteria security certification. Guaranteed operating system updatesuptoAndroid22andsecurityupdatesup to 2032 offer companies a high degree of futureproofing when it comes to selecting tablet solutions for long-term global use in industrial applications and potentially explosive atmospheres.
Robustandeasytouse
Thanks to the wet-touch function and IP68 certification, the tablet is protected against water penetrationandenablessmoothoperationinrain and snow. Even in outdoor areas of industrial
BUSINESSNEWSLINE
plants, the device can be operated comfortably and without restrictions in glove mode. Technologies for biometric authentication are also particularly advantageous: state-of-the-art functions for face recognition, for example, provide the highest level of security and userfriendliness.
ARtechnologiesasefficiencyboosters
The Tab-Ex 05 really comes into its own in complexapplicationsbasedonaugmentedreality (AR).ThetablethasanAR-capablecameraandan
ShyamMetalics
Expands
extended set of tracking tools – including an accelerometer,agyroscope,aGPSmoduleanda geomagnetic sensor. This makes location-based AR functions possible, such as indoor localization,whichmakesworkinginpotentially explosive atmospheres even safer. Thanks to Google ARCore certification, the Tab-Ex 05 is ideallysuitedforremotesupport,training,andthe use of company-specific tools. This makes the tablet an efficient companion in a variety of industrial applications, from administration to predictivemaintenanceofequipment.
ProductLinewithSELTiger RoofingSheets
StrengtheningtheSteelIndustrywithPremiumRoofingSolutions
Keyhighlights:
Ÿ ShyamMetalicsenterstheroofingsegmentwith SELTigerRoofingSheets.
Ÿ Itispartofthe₹603CrGreenfieldColdRolling FacilityinWestBengalwhichwillboostvalue-added steelproduction.
Ÿ The facility will produce 4,00,000 tons of GI/GL coilsandPPGLforpremiumroofingsolutions.
ShyamMetalics,aleadingnameinthesteelindustry, is proud to announce its expansion into theroofing segment with the launch of SEL Tiger Roofing Sheets. This strategic addition reinforces the company’s commitment to innovation and diversification, catering to the evolving needs of the constructionandinfrastructuresectors.
TheintroductionofSELTigerRoofingSheetsaligns with Shyam Metalics’Greenfield Cold Rolling Mill expansion in Jamuria, West Bengal. This facility is dedicatedtoproducinghigh-qualityGI/GLcoilsand Pre-Painted Galvalume Coils (PPGL), which form the foundation of durable and aesthetically superior roofingsolutions.
DevelopedunderShyamMetalicsFlatProductsPvt Ltd, and a total CAPEX investment of ₹603 crore, this PLI-approved project spans 55 acres and is structured in two phases. Phase I, commenced operations in September 2024, has an initial production capacity of 2,50,000 tons, with Phase II
adding another 1,50,000 tons, bringing the total capacityto4,00,000tons.
These sheets offer unmatched corrosion resistance, hightensilestrength,thermalefficiency,andawide range of aesthetic options, making them ideal for industrial, commercial, and residential applications.
Commenting on the launch, Sheetij Agarwal, Director, Shyam Metalics, stated: “With the introduction of SEL Tiger Roofing Sheets, we are reinforcing our commitment to nation-building through high-quality and sustainable steel solutions. Our goal is to provide customers with roofing solutions that are not just durable but also aesthetically superior and environmentally sustainable.By leveraging advanced manufacturing techniquesandstringentqualitycontrol,weaimtoset new benchmarks in the roofing segment. This expansion positions Shyam Metalics as a one-stop destinationforpremiumsteelproducts,cateringto diverse market needs and supporting India’s infrastructuregrowth.”
Shyam Metalics, through its expansion into the roofing segment, is strengthening its position as a leadingproviderofhigh-qualitysteelsolutions.Witha focus on innovation, superior product quality, and sustainablemanufacturing,thecompanyaimstocater to the growing demand for durable and efficient roofing solutions across industrial, commercial,and residentialsectors.
TECHNOLOGY
Innovativesolutionsforaglobalmarket
KaeserKompressorenwillshowcaseawiderangeofcutting-edgeproductsdesignedforinternational marketsatthisyear'sbaumainMunich.Highlightsincludenewmodels,enhancedequipmentoptions, andaconceptstudyforabattery-poweredportablecompressor,offeringaglimpseintothefutureof constructionsitecompressedairsupply.
TECHNOLOGY
KaeserMobilairM480
TECHNOLOGY
Akey focus of the exhibition will be the diverse drive concepts that define the Mobilair series. Whether powered by an electric motor, or petrol and low-emission diesel engines, there is a solutionforeveryrequirement.Thelineupranges fromthecompact,hand-towableM10Ewitha5.5 kW electric motor, delivering just under 1 m³ of compressedair,tothepowerfuldiesel-driven,oilfree industrial compressor with 447 kW and an impressiveoutputofover45m³/min.
OneofthestandoutinnovationsistheM50ESFC electriccompressor.Thankstoafuturefrequency converteroption,itensuresalowstartingcurrent, enablingefficientoperationevenwhenconnected toexternalenergystoragesystemsorweakpower grids. Its adjustable operating pressure, ranging from6to11bar,makesithighlyversatile,serving applications in the 5 m³ class, from dry ice blasting (both indoor and outdoor) to powering constructionhammers.
Another exciting addition is the M81, a dieselpowered compressor in the 8 m³ class equipped with a Hatz engine. Engineered for maximum
flexibility,itdeliverspressuresrangingfrom6to 14 bar, and features an intuitive, user-friendly designwitheasymaintenance.
The exhibition will also unveil a range of new optionalfeaturesforportablecompressors.These include advanced compressed air treatment solutionsforthecompactM13andM17models,a generator option for the renowned M44PEallowing it to supply both compressed air and electricity - and a robust US-spec chassis for the most powerful oil-injected compressor in the Mobilair series, the M480, which delivers an impressive 48 m³/min of compressed air.
Kaeserisalsolookingaheadtoafuturelessreliant on traditional energy sources with its concept study of the M50B battery-powered portable screw compressor. This prototype is designed to assess industry interest in battery-powered solutions and gather key insights for further development. The study underscores Kaeser's commitment to sustainability and forwardthinkinginnovationincompressedairtechnology.
BUSINESSNEWSLINE
HyundaiConstructionEquipmententersnewmarketsatBauma
MultiplelaunchesasHyundailookstothefuture.
BUSINESSNEWSLINE
HyundaiConstructionEquipmentEuropewillbe exhibiting at the Bauma 2025 construction equipment fair in Munich, April 7-12, on stand 913inthemainMiddleOpenAirexhibitionarea. The stand will have 18 machines on display, of which10willbetotallynewmodelsthatarebeing launchedatBauma.Thecompanywillalsohavea demonstration area, an Innovation Park of future technology and hospitality and meeting areas to welcomecustomers,dealersandthemedia.
Theyinclude:
HW250MH - Based on our largest wheeled excavator,theHW250MHisa26-tonneMaterials Handler,witha2.9melevatingcab.Themachine canbeequippedwithamonoboomoragooseneck arm, to suit various recycling and materials handlingoperations.
HD130ADozer–Wewillbeexpandingourmodel line-upwiththelaunchofourfirstdozer.This15tonnemachineoffersabest-in-classpoweroutput with full electro-hydraulic controls and blade assistfunctions.
HW155H – Our hydrogen-powered wheeled excavatorwasastaticconceptatthelastBauma, butitwillbeoperatingonourdemonstrationarea throughout this year's show. Previewing a totally newhydrogenstoragetechnology,thatwillallow
fargreateroperatingautonomy,theHW155Hwill be paired with a hydrogen distribution vehicle, demonstrating how companies will be able to move to this zero-emission fuel in the future.
Innovation Park –Along with our demonstration area on the stand, we will have an Innovation Park, that will provide customers with a view of variousfuturetechnologiesinaction.Visitorswill beabletoseeanHL955Awheelloaderworkingin Tessenderlo, Belgium, that is being remotelycontrolledfromthestandinMunich.Wewillalso debut the AAVM+ safetly visibility system and the Clearview X bucket system, along with a head-updisplay,machinecontrolintegrationand ahostofexcavatorsafetysystems.
NewFor2025
The Materials Handler, Dozer and a host of additional machines, that will be announced in Februaryandattheshow,willbelaunchedtothe market this year. Detailed specifications and pricingwillbesharedclosertothosereveals.
We are looking forward to a really exciting and informativeeventinMunich,withnumerousnew and improved machines that will provide customers with new opportunities across many industrysectors.
BUSINESSNEWSLINE
TechnologypartnerforinnovativeOff-Highwayvehicles
BoschRexrothdemonstratesatbauma2025howscalabledigitalsolution modulescanenableamoreproductive,saferandcost-effectivedevelopment.
-Efficientdevelopment:newhardwareandsoftwaremodulesandtools-Simpleoperation:collision avoidanceandotherassistancesystems-Sustainability:efficientoperationforalldrivetypes.
Thedemandforefficient,productiveandeasyto-operate Off-Highway vehicles is increasing thecomplexityofmachinedevelopment.Bosch Rexroth supports vehicle manufacturers in meetingthesechallengeswithacomprehensive solution portfolio. At bauma 2025, the companypresentsnewhardwareandsoftware modules for automation, electrification, connectivity and efficiency. The scalable and open-technology approach, including new hydraulic solutions from HydraForce, covers different machine sizes, drive types and objectives. This enables OEMs to equip themselves quickly and precisely with economical driving, assistance and work functions and thus set themselves apart from competition.
With Bosch Rexroth as a technology partner for the entire machine fleet, manufacturers can minimize development effort and focus more on machine and driving characteristics. Scalable solution modules relieve OEMs of timeconsuming groundwork in order to design machines more efficiently, including functional safetyandsimplifyoperation.Financialrisksare also avoided, as the solution modules take into accountallrelevantstandardsandregulations.
Efficientdevelopment
One example of simplification in engineering is validated software modules that can be freely modified as part of the Try it First concept. The new BODAS Studio development environment,
Imagesource:BoschRexrothAG
BUSINESSNEWSLINE
based on a standardized, open software architecture with a wide range of integration options such as MATLAB and Simulink from MathWorks, saves time when generating code. Young and experienced experts receive qualified answers to development questions via the myBODAS collaboration platform, which also offersacomprehensiveknowledgedatabasewith AI-supported search and free access to the BODASsoftwaremodules.
Software-defined vehicles require Over-The-Air (OTA) services to roll out updates and new functions. BODAS Connect meets this requirementwithasolutionforOTAmassupdates that also includes UDS-compliant controllers in mixed E/E environments. The newly introduced RCU Lite Connectivity Device provides an economicentrytotelematics.
Esy-to-operatemachines
Semi-automated functions and advanced assistance systems enable greater safety and productivity on the construction site, even with less experienced operating personnel, for which Bosch Rexroth offers flexibly adaptable solution platforms. One example is the new Collision Avoidance System (CAS), which enables effective collision protection. The easily integrated CAS precisely detects objects and peopleusingradar,ultrasoundandsmartcameras, warns of impending collisions or decelerates the vehicle until emergency braking. The Kinematic Position Sensing (KPS) in combination with multiple inertial sensors provide the technical basis for semi-automated functions such as weighing, virtual walls or grading on slopes.
Moreefficiency
Bosch Rexroth covers the entire chain of action fromthejoysticktothecontrolsystemandsensors
tothetraveldriveandworkinghydraulics.Across alldrivetypesandmachinesizes,thefocusison efficient solutions – for example drive systems and technologies as well as the eLION electrification portfolio, which now also covers thelow-voltagerange.Thejointcontrolplatform eLION Power&Motion Control for low- and high-voltage on-board electrical systems ensures more efficient operation of electrified construction machinery in addition to crossmodelsynergyeffects.
The enhanced EMP motor-generator series and thenewcompactMPRPerformanceRadialpiston motor for small machines save valuable installationspace,weightandenergy.Alsonewis themodularRMGlobalvalveplatformwhichasa modular replacement for the well-known M4 valve,itcoversthelowerandmediumflowrange in a more flexible and efficient manner. The leading Onboard Electronics (OBE) in the agricultural sector have also been adapted for constructionmachinery.
The load and control valves from Rexroth CompactHydraulicsincludingtheEDG,EDH,EValve and H-Valve series complement the innovative solutions from HydraForce, which was acquired in 2023. Highlights include the high-flow and energy-efficient Digital Boom Control Valve EHBL with the user-friendly HFImpulse 2.0 programming tool and the oil conditionsensordevelopedincollaborationwith Tan Delta Systems. This sensor monitors fluid quality in real time, enabling proactive maintenance and helping to prevent unplanned downtime.
Bosch Rexroth at the bauma 2025: Hall A3, booth327
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Canadaispartnerofchoiceforgreen,digitalandresilientsolutions
Canada is honored to be the partner country for HANNOVER MESSE 2025, the world's most important tradeshow for industrial and energy technologies,takingplaceinHannover,Germany, from March 31 to April 4, 2025. Canada will showcase some of its cutting-edge advanced manufacturing capabilities, highly skilled talent, culture and innovation ecosystems, and will highlightitscommitmenttosustainablesolutions andinclusivegrowth.
François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry, on behalf of Canada, is pleased to kick off Canada's participation as the partner country for HANNOVER MESSE 2025. At a time when advanced manufacturing around the world is being challenged by shifting geo-economic conditions, rapid advances in transformative technologies likeAI, and the impacts of climate change,Canada'sroleasthepartnercountrytakes
on even greater significance. Canada will demonstrate its leadership in advanced manufacturing and will look to build stronger innovation and commercial partnerships with countriesaroundtheworld.
Morethan230exhibitorsand250delegatesfrom Canada are set to showcase their industrial technology solutions and share their expertise in six pavilions focusing on leading-edge innovation, automation and robotics, digital solutions and AI, alternative energy, hydrogen technologies, and trade and investment opportunities. Canada will be represented by many of its best and most innovative businesses, networks and organizations in the areas of advanced manufacturing, digital technology, research and development, e-mobility and clean energy. Canada's largest federal research and technology organization, the National Research CouncilofCanada,willbeonsitetoshowcaseits
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expertise and capabilities in clean energy, advancedmanufacturing,digitaltechnologiesand AI.
Canadian company Maple Advanced Robotics Inc. won HANNOVER MESSE's much coveted ROBOTICS AWARD 2025, an honor that recognizescompaniesthataredrivingpioneering developmentsinindustrywiththeirrobot-assisted automationandlogisticssolutions,aschosenbya high-caliber jury of experts in robotics. The company's technology solution, theAutonomous AdaptableRoboticSystem,willbefeaturedatthe fair this year. The system involves an AI-driven robotics platform that facilitates rapid, no-code programming.
Canadianbusinessleaderswillalsoplayanactive roleinadynamiclineupofeventsthroughoutthe week of the fair, including a high-level business summit, renewable dialogue, leaders' dialogue and the FEMWORX conference, along with multiple panel discussions, keynote addresses, ecosystem presentations and product launches. Theywillmakeastrongcasethatthefutureishere andthatCanadaisleadingtheway.
Statements
François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry: “Canadian businesses are known worldwide for driving growth through innovation, and our government is excited to showcase their talent at HANNOVER MESSE 2025. As the official partner country, Canada is ready to highlight groundbreaking products from its exhibitors, spanning fields such as applied AI, advanced manufacturing, robotics and clean tech. This is ourmomenttoshineontheglobalstageandforge strong and enduring industry connections worldwide.”
Mary Ng, Minister of Export Promotion, International Trade and Economic Development: “Canada's role as the partner countryatHANNOVERMESSE2025highlights our strong and growing trade relationship with Germany and all of Europe. This is a great opportunity for Canadian businesses to connect withglobalmarkets,showcasetheirtechnological innovationandtapintonewexportopportunities. BystrengtheningoureconomictieswithEurope, we are reaffirming Canada's position as a trusted partnerininternationaltrade,drivinggrowthand creating new opportunities for Canadian exportersworldwide.”
Jayson Myers, CEO, Next Generation Manufacturing Canada (NGen): “HANNOVER MESSE offers an unparalleled platform for Canada's advanced manufacturing sector to show the world what it has to offer, expand into new markets and strengthen global trade partnerships.The spotlight in Hanover will beonCanadathisyear,andNGenisproudtolead its business delegation at this very important internationalevent.”
Evelyne Coulombe, Chargée d'affaires a.i., Embassy of Canada to Germany: “Canada's selection as the partner country at HANNOVER MESSE2025isatestamenttothestrengthofthe Canada–Germany relationship, and the fair will allow us to showcase Canada as a stable and reliable partner of choice for trade, investment and scientific cooperation. The Trade Commissioner Service team in Germany will connect Canadian companies with concrete business opportunities, identify markets for diversification, reinforce Canada as a foreign direct investment destination and establish partnerships in science, technology and innovation.”
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Withtheefficiencyturnaroundintotheelectricfuture
Atthisyear'sHANNOVERMESSE,theZVEIis once again presenting its vision of a digitized, electrifiedanddecarbonizedindustrialsociety.As in the previous year, the “All Electric Society Arena” in Hall 11 is the center of the trade fair activities.
The German Electrical and Digital Manufacturers' Association (ZVEI), headquarteredinFrankfurtamMain,ispresenting abroadrangeoftopicsatHANNOVER MESSE 2025. For example, high-level representatives from companies, research and politics will come together in the so-called High Noon Talks at 12 noon on all days of the fair. In discussions with ZVEI representatives, they will discuss the opportunities and conditions for an efficient and sustainableeconomy.Inaddition,variousexperts will give daily keynote speeches on key future topics such as competitiveness in the EU, the potential of artificial intelligence in industry and
the smart and secure supply of renewable energies. The individual program items of the ZVEIontheoccasionofthefairarestructuredas follows.
Industry4.0ConferenceStage
OntheIndustry4.0Stage,meanwhile,everything revolves around automation: the five-day conference program in Hall 8 (Stand D17) on digitalization in production is supported by the Industry 4.0 platform, the VDMAand the ZVEI andanswersquestionsonthemanagementofdata streams, IT security, standards and the interoperability of different solutions, and presentsnumeroususecasesfromthefield.
FEMWORXCongress(ConventionCenter)
FemaleleadershipandSTEM–akeytopicinthe HANNOVERMESSEsupportingprogramunder
Photo:ZVEIHM25
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a new name since 2024.The ZVEI is once again supporting the networking and discussion event on April 3 and 4, which offers a platform for discussions on diversity, equality and female careeradvancementinindustry.
ZVEIyoungtalentprogram
The promising career opportunities that the electricaland digitalindustry offers young talent willbeondisplayagainin2025attheZVEIstand in Hall 11 (Stand B54). With its exhibit Industrie4.0@School, the David Roentgen School in Neuwied shows how current industry topicscanbeintegratedintovocationaltrainingin a practical and didactically appealing way in an interactivelearningproject.
DigitalProductPass4.0
Digital Product Passes (DPP) are a key technology for sustainable transparency in industry and power grids. ZVEI is actively involved in various projects to develop corresponding standards that enable the uniform and reliable documentation of key properties of systems, devices and components, such as the Product Carbon Footprint (PCF).
DPP4.0@Machine and DDP4.0@Grid will provide information on current progress at the ZVEIstand.
ProcessX
TheaimofProcessX,ajointprojectbyNAMUR and ZVEI, is to optimize efficiency and sustainabilityintheprocessindustrywiththehelp of collaborative data spaces. At the main ZVEI stand,visitorscanlearnhowchemicalproduction, for example, can benefit from digital efficiency gains without sacrificing data sovereignty, interoperabilityandtrustworthiness.
Drive
4.0 (Research
Association for Electrical Engineering)
At the ZVEI main stand, Drive 4.0 will be demonstrating the use case “Digitalized Asset
Management”withseveraldemonstrators:Witha federated data space and administration shells, it achieves cross-manufacturer transparency in factory plants with numerous assets that have differentcharacteristics.Throughthemultilateral exchangeofdata,allimportantassetinformation isavailablecentrallyandinauniformformat.
OpenDirectCurrentAlliance(ODCA)
The ODCA pursues the goal of establishing DC microgrids. At the ZVEI main stand, the international ZVEI working party will be demonstratingthecontributionthatdirectcurrent can make to energy and resource efficiency in industrial applications and beyond. The open ODCA approach offers great opportunities for developers,machinebuildersandplantoperators andisabuildingblockontheroadtoanefficient AllElectricSociety.
5G-ACIA – “5G and Industrial Wireless Arena”
At its booth in Hall 14, the ZVEI working group “5G Alliance for Connected Industries and Automation” (5G-ACIA) provides information on all aspects of industrial 5G. More than 15 exhibitors – including Huawei, Siemens and Fraunhofer – show realistic showcases. Particularly valuable insights are provided by DemoWall2.0andaselectionofcurrenttestbeds.
With the 5G Arena and the “5G & Industrial WirelessConferenceStage”,the5G-ACIAisalso supporting an important thematic focus of HANNOVERMESSE2025asapartner.
ForumEnergy4.0
Asapartner,ZVEIalsosupportstheprofessional exchange of ideas on another key topic for the development of the “All Electric Society”: the Energy 4.0 Forum (Hall 13) is dedicated to solutionsfortheintegrationofrenewablesources, sustainable energy security and the coupling of power, heat and mobility – including the Energy 4.0Stage,whichZVEIispresentingtogetherwith VDEandVDMA.
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Artificialintelligenceacceleratespharmaceuticalproduction
SiemensispresentingpioneeringsolutionsforthepharmaceuticalindustryatHANNOVER MESSE2025.Thefocusisontheintegrationofindustrialartificialintelligencein pharmaceuticalproduction.
easier,morereliableandsafer.Documentationis alsokeptuptodateatalltimes.
The Siemens showcase includes the following AI technologies that support and optimize the entirelifecycleofpharmaceuticalproduction:
Engineering - creating a digital twin of existing plants using Industrial Copilots. The Industrial Copilot for the TIA Portal from Siemens is a generativeAI-supported assistant for automation engineersusingtheTIAPortal.Ithelpsengineers to create SCL code more quickly, answer engineering questions and create HMI visualizations.
Operation - With the AI-based Simatic eaSIe chatbot, technicians and maintenance staff can communicate with the system via chat or voice interaction and access relevant data from a pharmaceutical plant. This makes maintenance
Predictive maintenance - Senseye Predictive Maintenance (SiePA) automatically analyzes plantdataandincreasesproductivitythroughAIsupported recommendations for action in understandable language. SiePA not only monitorstheoperatingdataoftheplantitself,but also analyzes the process around the plant, enabling early detection of changes in plant behavior and better operating and maintenance decisions.
Store floor management - The Siemens Industrial Copilot for the store floor supports operators, service technicians and maintenance engineers by providing transparent access to relevantfactoryinformation.
Photo:Siemens
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Schaefflerpresentsproductinnovationsforindustry
MotionTechnologyCompanySchaefflerispresentingitsexpandedproductportfolioand expertiseforthefirsttimeinGermanyatHANNOVERMESSE2025.
Photo:Schäffler
Following the merger withVitescoTechnologies in October 2024, eight product families with many new developments will be presented in Hanover.Theinnovations include the innovative XZU angular contact bearing for lightweight robotsandcobots.Itischaracterizedbyacompact design, high efficiency and low weight and was nominated for the HERMESAWARD due to its outstandingproperties.
ThenewlydevelopedXZUrollingbearingearned its nomination. The innovation is a double-row oblique roller bearing designed with the same
connection dimensions as standard cross-roller bearings available on the market, making it a seamless, one-to-one replacement. The arrangementofverysmall,cylindricalroller-like rolling elements in a double-row configuration means that the bearing increases tilt stiffness by 30 percent, reduces friction resistance by 20 percent, and improves raceway accuracy by 40 percent.Theseadvancementsdirectlyenhancethe efficiency, productivity, and thus also energy consumptionpercomponent.Themarketoffersa wide range of applications for this new rolling bearing. This innovation is particularly valuable in fields such as robotics, assembly automation, andmachinetools.
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ThefutureofmaterialssciencewithAI:MaxWellingandCuspAI
The AI revolution is not only making strides in robotics, but also has the potential to transform materials science. MaxWelling, a researcher and founder of CuspAI, is working on a platform for developingnewmaterialsusingAI.
Prof.Dr.MaxWelling,founderofCuspAI
CuspAI, a company with about 20 employees, is focusingonAI-basedmaterialsresearch.
Thecompanyisdevelopingaplatformthatservesasa kind of 'search engine for materials'. This uses machinelearningto design new materialsfor various applications.Thefirstareasofapplicationinclude:
Ÿ gas separation and carbon capture: new materialscouldsignificantlyimprovetheefficiencyof CO₂separation.
Ÿ Semiconductor materials: As the miniaturisationofchipscontinues,materialsresearch isbecomingincreasinglyimportanttofindnew,more powerfulalternativestosilicon.
The platform is based on generative AI models that create and simulate new molecules. In addition, CuspAI uses physics-based models to predict the propertiesofthesemolecules.
TechnologicalfoundationsandAImodels
Theplatformreliesonvariousmethods:
Ÿ generativemodelsthatdesignnewmolecules andconditiontheirproperties.
Ÿ force fields that enable physical simulations bycalculatingtheenergiesandforcesofatoms.
Ÿ property predictors that bypass simulations bydirectlypredictingmaterialproperties.
Ÿ AI-powered search agents that efficiently filter the best materials from a large set of potential combinations.
Welling emphasises that AI is enabling tremendous progress in materials research. Simulations that used totakeweekscanbedoneinsecondswithAI-powered models.
Datasourcesandcollaborationwithcompanies
CuspAIdrawsonvariousdatasources,including:
Ÿ PublicdatabasessuchasMaterialsProjectand Nomad.
Ÿ Company-specific data provided through collaborationswithcompanies.
Ÿ In-house simulations that generate synthetic datatoimprovetheAImodels.
A particular challenge is combining domain-specific knowledge with AI. Welling describes how many companies have data but not the necessary machine learning experts to use it efficiently. CuspAI offers a bridgebetweenmaterialsscienceandAI.
For the next phase, Welling is looking for excellent researchers in the field of machine learning and chemistry. The company's locations – including Cambridge, Amsterdam and Berlin – offer an attractiveenvironmentforEuropeantalent.
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Emerson's“FloortoCloud”tosolutionstransformfactories
Emerson Discrete Automation helps manufacturing companies transform their operations through cutting-edgeautomation,AI-drivenanalytics,andenergy-efficientsolutions.WithitsFloortoCloud approach, Emerson integrates advanced technologies to streamline production, improve efficiency andmaximizeperformancequality.
Emerson's portfolio includes products like the AVENTICSSeriesAF2FlowSensors,whichhelp monitorandreducecompressedairconsumption, and the Energy Manager, designed to cut energy costs and carbon emissions. The company's automation solutions, including PACSystems controllers and edge devices, enable manufacturers to enhance production flexibility, predict maintenance needs and improve cybersecurity. By providing scalable and customizableindustrialautomationtechnologies, Emerson empowers manufacturers to stay competitiveinarapidlyevolvingmarket.
With a strong focus on sustainability and efficiency,Emersonhelpsmanufacturersachieve long-term success through smarter production processes. Its material joining and cleaning technologies,feedingandhandlingsolutions,and software platforms like Movicon Pro.Energy further support companies in optimizing their operations. By leveraging Emerson's automation expertise, manufacturers can enhance productivity,reducewasteanddriveinnovationin theirindustries.
Photo:Emerson
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HindustanZincAchieves
IndustryLeadingMilestoneof25% WomeninWorkforce,Targets30%
Hindustan Zinc leads the way with over 25% womeninitsworkforce,drivingempowermentin themanufacturingsector
Hindustan Zinc Limited (NSE: HINDZINC), India's largest and the world's second-largest integratedzincproducer,hasreached25%women representationinitsworkforce,amilestoneaptly termed '25 on 25'. This milestone reinforces the company'scommitmenttogenderdiversityinthe traditionally male-dominated industries of metals, mining and heavy engineering. Furthermore,HindustanZincremainsontrackto achieve 30% women representation by 2030, aligningwithitsSustainableDevelopmentGoals (SDGs).
HindustanZinc'sgenderdiversityratiosurpasses industry benchmarks, positioning it ahead of several global and domestic peers in metals & mining. Notably, Hindustan Zinc is home to India's first women underground mine managers andhasestablishedthecountry'sfirstandsecond all-womenundergroundminerescueteams.
Priya Agarwal Hebbar, Chairperson –Hindustan Zinc Limited, said, “For any
businesstothrive,equalrepresentationisnotjust important - it's essential. A truly successful organization values every voice and ensures that diverse perspectives shape its future. At Hindustan Zinc, we take pride in championing gender diversity in the traditional metals and mining sector. Today, over 700 talented women are driving our transition toward a low-carbon economy, breaking barriers and redefining industrynorms.Ourvisionisambitiousyetclearto significantly accelerate this momentum and achieve30%diversitywithinthenextfiveyears. Thegrowingnumberofwomenchoosingcareers in mining and metallurgy is a testament to this shift - one fueled by our industry-first, peoplecentric policies and a wealth of opportunities designed for holistic professional growth. Diversity, equity, and inclusion are embedded in Hindustan Zinc's DNA. We are committed to building a workplace where every individual—regardless of gender - has a voice, accesstoopportunities,andthesupporttoexcel.”
As the metals, mining & manufacturing sector emerges as a key driver of India's economic transformation, Hindustan Zinc is committed to fostering an inclusive workplace that empowers
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women at every stage of their careers. What is truly unique is the company's ability to provide rich job content to its employees across highgrowth businesses. Employees enjoy the best of both worlds - the stability of a global conglomeratewiththeagilityofastart-up.Talent mobilityacrossfunctionsallowsthemtoexplore diverse roles and seamlessly transition across different domains. Progressive workplace policies,suchasspousehiringpolicy,physical& mental health leaves, year-long sabbaticals for childcare, flexible-working hours, monthly noquestions-asked leaves for women further enhance opportunities, ensuring that gender is never a barrier to career advancement. The companyisalsointegratingwomeninbackshifts (upto10PM)acrossminesandplantsbeyondthe general shift timings, ensuring women have access to equal career growth opportunities availabletotheirmalecounterparts.
Leveraging cutting-edge technologies such as Industry 4.0, digitalization, robotics, and automation, Hindustan Zinc is revolutionizing operations, eliminating manual intervention, and dismantling outdated perceptions of the sector being physically demanding. The company's digital mines, featuring tele-remote underground mining(whereundergroundminingequipmentis operatedremotelyfromthesurface)andreal-time analytics, provide exciting and inclusive career pathways for all. This has resulted in more than 34% women joining Hindustan Zinc through campus recruitment drives in FY24, making Hindustan Zinc the top choice for women in metals.
Dr. Kavita Bhardwaj, Head of Exploration –HindustanZincLimited,sharedherexperience, stating, “At Hindustan Zinc, talent—not gender—defines success. The company's inclusive culture, strong mentorship, and leadership opportunities have empowered me to take on diverse and challenging roles, giving me the confidence to push boundaries and excel in waysIneverimagined.”
Sakshi Gupta, member of India's First AllWomen Underground Mine Rescue Team &
Assurance Manager, added, “Women are no longer just participants in change we are leading it. Mining, once considered a male-dominated field, is now witnessing a revolution. At Hindustan Zinc we are not just given opportunities; we are encouraged to innovate, break barriers, and redefine the future of metals. The culture of support and empowerment has enabled us to challenge conventions and set new industrybenchmarks.”
Hindustan Zinc's commitment to inclusion extends beyond employment. The company's world-class townships, located near its plants, provide modern amenities such as schools, hospitals, daycare centres, creches, places of worship, and sports and recreational facilities, fostering a vibrant social life for employees and theirfamilies.
Beyond direct employment, Hindustan Zinc's social impact initiatives are driving economic independence for women in rural communities. Through Zinc Kaushal Kendra, over 500 women have been trained in science-based vocational courses like nursing and electrical work, enhancing their employability and financial independence.Additionally,thecompany'sSakhi initiative nurtures women-led micro-enterprises, empowering women entrepreneurs in rural Rajasthan by facilitating e-commerce sales for theirproducts.
HindustanZinc,aVedantaGroupcompany,isthe world's second-largest integrated zinc producer and the third-largest silver producer. The companyholdsamarketshareofabout75%ofthe primaryzincmarketinIndia.HindustanZinchas been recognized as the world's most sustainable company in the metals and mining category for the second consecutive year by the S&P Global Corporate Sustainability Assessment 2024, reflecting its operational excellence, innovation, andleadingESGpractices.HindustanZincisalso acertified2.41timesWater-Positivecompany.As aworldleaderinthemetalsandminingindustry, Hindustan Zinc is pivotal in providing critical metals essential for the global energy transition forasustainablefuture.
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GenAIDrivenPersonalisation&DigitalInnovationEmergeasKey MarketingTrendsforFrenchCompaniesatIndo-FrenchChamber's MaidenMARCOMFest2025
The Indo-French Chamber of Commerce and Industry(IFCCI)hostedthemaideneditionofthe IFCCI MARCOM Fest 2025. The event, organized under the aegis of the IFCCI Marcom Committee,consistingofCMOsbroughttogether leading marketing and communications professionals from both French and Indian companies, highlighting the ever-developing commitment of French businesses towards the Indianmarket.
Speaking at the occasion, Mr. Jean Touboul, President, IFCCI & CEO, Pernod Ricard Indiasaid, "We are proud to unveil the inaugural edition of the IFCCI MarCom Fest 2025, a pioneeringinitiativebytheIndo-FrenchChamber of Commerce and Industry. In an era where marketingtranscendstraditionalboundaries,this platform serves as a catalyst for thought leadership and innovation, bringing together strategy, creativity, and brand storytelling. The IFCCI Marcom Committee has been a hub for transformative ideas, fostering collaboration to redefine modern marketing. With this dynamic event, we aim to elevate this vision by bringing together industry pioneers and leading marketing and communication experts from India and France to explore emerging trends, unlock new opportunities, and strengthen Indo-French businesssynergies."
Designed to foster collaboration and innovation,
Mr.JeanTouboul,PresidentIFCCIandCEO,PernodRicardIndia
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theeventprovidedadynamicplatformfortop-tier CMOs,communicationheads,andotherindustry leaders to discuss the latest trends, technologies, and strategies shaping cutthroat marketing campaigns across industries. The event underscored the importance of AI algorithms, adaptable Machine learning models,VirtualTryOns, cross-border collaboration and demonstrated how French companies are betting big on India's vast and growing market with key marketing campaigns incorporating Gen a.i. led innovation.
Mr. Pierre de Greef, Chief Digital Marketing Officer, Pernod Ricard India showcased some of the most innovative and impactful marketing campaigns by Pernod Ricard and other global brandsduringasessionthatcapturedthecreative processes behind their successes using AI and innovation as key. In a similar vein, Decathlon India shared its entry strategy and omnichannel retail marketing approach, offering valuable lessons in how brands can adapt to the unique retailenvironmentinIndia.Italsowitnessedalive GenAIsurveywhichwasextremelyengagingand spontaneous. The event culminated in a networking session, organised by Pernod Ricard &Monin,alongsidecorporategamesbyAirfrance andDecathlon.
The event emphasized on the importance of rapidly evolving marketing landscape and cutting-edge case study-based presentations and themesexploringcriticaltopicssuchasProtecting innovation and intellectual property in an evercompetitive global market, Succeeding as a French Brand in the Indian Market, GEN AI's Uniquecapabilities&CaseStudies,TheScience
and Impact of Storytelling detailing how AI is revolutionizing the way brands approach consumerengagement.
Mr. Rajat Abbi, Vice President, Marketing, Greater India, Schneider Electric & Chairperson, IFCCI Marcom Committee, said, "IFCCI MarCom Fest 2025 marks a significant milestone in our journey to create a dynamic platform for marketing and communications leaders. It is incredibly rewarding to see this initiative evolve into a space where industry pioneers come together to exchange ideas, explore trends, and drive innovation in brand storytelling and engagement. The committee recognizes the power of marketing in shaping business transformation, especially in an era defined by digital acceleration and sustainability, that not only strengthens IndoFrench business synergies but also redefines the futureofmarketing.”
Otherparticipatingbrandswhoaddedknowledge, experience and value to the sessions were Sopra Banking Software, centdegrés India, IDEMIA, upGrad Enterprises, Schneider Electric India, Monin, Pernod Ricard India, Airfrance, Ahujasons, Kairali Ayurveda, Le Creuset, FreshoKit, NASO Profumi, Tan & Loom, 4700 BC, and Monks Interactive. The session also witnessed the Green Yodha Sustainability Campaign pledge by Schneider Electric India. IFCCI Marcom marks as milestone b/w India & Franceasdigitalization,AIanddigitalmarketing isshaping.2026yearwasannouncedasayearof Innovationb/wIndia&FrancebyHonorableP.M. Mr. Narendra Modi in the recent A.I Summit in Paris.
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BASFandPartnersInaugurate‘WomeninRefinish’ CSRInitiative
BASF, in collaboration with Mahindra & Mahindra Limited (M&M), NGO Seva Sahayog Foundation (SSF), and Don Bosco Industrial Training Institute (Don Bosco), recently celebrated the inauguration of the 'Women in Refinish' CSR program. This initiative aims to empower women from underprivileged backgrounds by providing them with the skills andopportunitiestopursuecareersintherefinish coatingsprofession.
The Women in Refinish program is one of the multiple CSR initiatives by BASF that promote diversity and inclusion in the chemical industry. This unique program will offer a comprehensive skill development course in Industrial Painting (Refinish)for50women,aged18andabove,split intotwobatcheseveryyear.Thecourse,designed by BASF experts, will span 3-4 months and include both theoretical and practical training. BASF has set up the necessary infrastructure for training, ensuring a conducive learning environment. Don Bosco has provided the space forsettinguptheboothintheirtechnicalinstitute andwillsupportteaching.
Alexander Gerding, Managing Director of
BASF India Ltd and head of BASF group companies in India, said, "We are thrilled to launchthisuniqueandinnovativeprogram,which alignswithourcommitmenttofosteringdiversity and inclusion. By providing women with the necessaryskillsandtraining,weaimtobridgethe gendergapintheautomotiveaswellaschemical industriestocreateamoreinclusiveworkforce.”
“The ‘Women in Refinish’ program reflects our belief in the power of diversity and inclusion to drive meaningful change,” said Susann Kluge, BASFVicePresident-AutomotiveRefinishAsia Pacific,sharingherexcitement.“Byempowering women to excel in the automotive aftersales industry,wearenotonlyshapingcareersbutalso fostering a more inclusive future. I hope this initiativeinspiresotherstojoinusinthisjourney ofempowermentandprogress,”sheadded.
BASF will facilitate and support the training program, while SSF will execute the project activities. M&M has supported the project throughoutandwillgiveinternshipstoallwomen students trained in this program, promoting diversity in automotive paint shops and body shops.
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JIOTOBRINGSPACEX’SSTARLINKHIGH-SPEEDINTERNET TOITSCUSTOMERS
• Jio and Starlink are expanding horizons, connectingallofIndia
• Jio is advancing and diversifying its broadbandserviceoptionstoincludeStarlink connectivity
• This is a significant milestone in India’s connectivityevolution
Jio Platforms Limited (JPL) announced an agreement with SpaceX to offer Starlink’s broadband internet services to its customers in India.Thisagreement,whichissubjecttoSpaceX receivingitsownauthorizationstosellStarlinkin India, enables Jio and SpaceX to explore how Starlink can extend Jio’s offerings and how Jio can complement SpaceX’s direct offerings to consumersandbusinesses. JiowillmakeStarlink solutions available through its retail outlets as wellasthroughitsonlinestorefronts.
Throughthisagreement,thepartieswillleverage Jio’s position as the world's largest mobile operator in terms of data traffic and Starlink’s position as the world’s leading low Earth orbit satellite constellation operator to deliver reliable broadband services across the country, including themostruralandremoteregionsofIndia.
Jio will not only offer Starlink equipment in its retail outlets but will establish a mechanism to support customer service installation and activation.
The agreement with SpaceX is part of Jio’s commitment to ensuring that reliable internet is
fully accessible to all enterprises, small and medium businesses, and communities across India. Starlink complements JioAirFiber and JioFiber by extending high speed internet to the most challenging of locations in a quick and affordablemanner.
Jio and SpaceX are also evaluating other complementary areas of cooperation to leverage their respective infrastructure to further enhance India’sdigitalecosystem.
“EnsuringthateveryIndian,nomatterwherethey live, has access to affordable and high-speed broadband remains Jio’s top priority," said Mathew Oommen, Group CEO, Reliance Jio. "OurcollaborationwithSpaceXtobringStarlink toIndiastrengthensourcommitmentandmarksa transformative step toward seamless broadband connectivity for all. By integrating Starlink into Jio’sbroadbandecosystem,weareexpandingour reach and enhancing the reliability and accessibility of highspeed broadband in this AIdriven era, empowering communities and businessesacrossthecountry."
“We applaud Jio’s commitment to advancing India’s connectivity” said Gwynne Shotwell, President and Chief Operating Officer of SpaceX. “We are looking forward to working with Jio and receiving authorization from the Government of India to provide more people, organizations and businesses with access to Starlink’shighspeedinternetservices.”
