In the ‘Young Talent Lounge’, the association will focus on the topics of training, higher education and career opportunities.

The GKV Gesamtverband Kunststoffverarbeitende Industrie (General Association of the Plastics Processing Industry) wants to make plastics processing tangible and accessible to young people at its stand in Hall 8a (F-11-1). According to the information provided, the programme includes an interactive training parkour with quizzes and prizes, which is designed to convey knowledge about career options in a playful way. In addition, virtual reality glasses can be used to virtually follow the individual production steps in plastics processing – from raw material processing and quality testing to the finished product. There is also the opportunity to produce small plastic parts by hand on a mini injection moulding machine.
 
In addition, the GKV is offering two discussion events. On Friday, 10 October, training managers and HR experts will discuss new approaches to competing for young talent in a best practices exchange. On Tuesday, 14 October, Prof. Dr.-Ing. Christian Hopmann will present current courses of study for young engineers in industry, research and development and discuss relevant topics with young visitors and decision-makers from the industry.

 
According to GKV, another highlight will be the ‘Club of the Best’ meeting on Friday, 10 October, with the winners of the Günter Schwank Prize. In addition to a VIP tour of the trade fair, the programme for the networking meeting includes a keynote speech on the circular economy and climate protection by Alexander Röder, Climate & Production Director at the plastics manufacturers' association Plastics Europe in Brussels.
 
"With our trade fair presence, we want to highlight the appeal of plastics processing for young talent and at the same time promote exchange between universities and companies. In this way, we are making an important contribution to actively countering the shortage of skilled workers," emphasises Dr Oliver Möllenstädt, Managing Director of the GKV.
 
Sources:

• GKV press release (23.9.2025)
• Photo: © GKV