On June 24th, 2026, CIFA welcomed representatives from main leading construction equipment European companies and industry associations to its headquarters in Senago (Milan, Italy) for the annual meeting of the CECE Construction Equipment Product Group, the working group dedicated to equipment for concrete production, transport, and pumping.
The meeting brought together manufacturers, industry experts, and representatives from national European associations to discuss the key topics currently shaping the construction market, including economic trends, future outlooks, technological innovation, and regulatory developments.
Among the main topics discussed, participants shared data and insights on market performance across different geographical regions, comparing industry statistics with the direct experiences of individual companies. The exchange provided valuable opportunities to better understand the factors influencing demand and to discuss expectations for the second half of the year.
During the meeting, a proposal from ERMCO (European Ready Mixed Concrete Organization) was also presented regarding a joint development of common standards for emerging technologies in the concrete sector, including digitalization, artificial intelligence, and alternative materials to traditional cement. The proposal sparked a constructive discussion on the role that equipment manufacturers and industry associations can play in supporting technological and regulatory developments at the European level.
Significant attention was also devoted to innovation and the future of concrete machinery. Discussions highlighted how digitalization, connectivity, servitization, and the development of new environmentally friendly technologies are expected to play an increasingly important role in shaping the construction sites of the future. Participants shared perspectives on how innovation continues to be a key differentiator for premium brand manufacturers and an essential tool for maintaining competitiveness in a rapidly evolving market.
At the end of the meeting, guests had the opportunity to visit the CIFA TEC – Testing European Center, where machines are tested and validated in compliance with European regulations. The visit offered participants a closer look at CIFA’s approach to product development, safety, and innovation.
By hosting this important European event, CIFA reaffirms its commitment to fostering dialogue among key industry stakeholders and actively contributing to the development of the technologies and solutions that will shape the future of construction.
A special thank you to all participants:
Luca Nutarelli, Direttore UNACEA
Paolo Salvadori, Presidente UNACEA e CEO IMER Group
Sebastian Popp, VDMA / CECE Economic Affairs Manager
Timo Feuerbach, VDMA Technical Expert
Pierluigi Mezzini, Managing Director BHS Sonthofen
Florian Hafen, Liebherr
Dirk Schwarzer, Putzmeister
Toni Huttunen, NORMET
Markus Martin, WN
Grazia Bertagnoli, General Secretary ERMCO
Eric Zimmermann, President CIFA North America
Paolo Maini, Senior Research and Development Engineer CIFA
Giosuè Cavallaro, Group Marketing and Communications Manager CIFA
Daniele Favrin, Product Marketing Manager CIFA
Stefano Ferri, Product Safety and Patent Department Manager CIFA