ZVO strengthens political work for surface and electroplating technology
The political representation of interests by the German Surface Technology Association (ZVO) has been characterized by intensive discussions and important events in recent weeks. The association is thus bringing the concerns of surface technology and electroplating into the political discourse in a targeted manner.
A key meeting took place between ZVO board member Lars Baumgürtel, Lukas Hanstein, Head of Politics at ZVO, and Mark Helfrich MdB (CDU/CSU parliamentary group). The focus was on the role of surface technology in a functioning circular economy, the competitiveness of energy-intensive companies in the face of high energy prices in Germany and the current challenges posed by the environmental regulations REACH and PFAS. The discussion emphasized the importance of shaping the regulatory framework in such a way that innovation, sustainability and industrial strength can go hand in hand. In addition, the ZVO held an in-depth discussion with Fabian Gramling MdB (CDU/CSU parliamentary group). In particular, the ramp-up of the hydrogen economy in Germany and its relevance for the energy-intensive surface industry were discussed. The discussions made it clear that hydrogen plays a decisive role in the transformation of the industry, but that reliable framework conditions and economically viable concepts are also necessary.
Keynote speech at the ZVO Surface Days 2026
Another highlight of the political work was the opening of the ZVO Surface Days on September 24, 2025. With an inspiring keynote speech, Vanessa Zobel MdB (CDU/CSU parliamentary group) addressed central topics of energy policy and the reduction of excessive bureaucracy. Her remarks were very well received by the event participants and sent a strong political signal to the industry. Also on the agenda was the Federal SME Day of the Mittelstands- und Wirtschaftsunion (MIT) from September 26 to 27, 2025 in Cologne. Lukas Hanstein took part in this key meeting of SME policy as a representative of the ZVO. During the event, Gitta Connemann MdB, Parliamentary State Secretary at the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy, was re-elected as Federal Chairwoman of the MIT. The ZVO supported the Bundesmittelstandstag as a sponsor and is pleased to be actively involved in shaping SME policy positions in Germany. In addition to the discussion of proposals, the BMT was also characterized by high-profile greetings - including from Federal Chancellor Friedrich Merz, NRW Minister President Hendrik Wüst and the Federal Chairman of the Junge Union, Johannes Winkel. With these activities, the ZVO is once again highlighting its role as the voice of an innovative key technology with a strong focus on medium-sized companies and is bringing the interests of surface technology and electroplating into the political discourse in a targeted manner.