The Future of Industry in Europe

De-Industrialization or Transformation

On Friday, June 6, 2025, the MCI Department of Business & Management hosted this year’s Business Friday – and numerous participants from business, academia, and politics, along with students, alumni, and other interested guests, followed the invitation.

Under the title “The Future of Industry in Europe: De-industrialization or Transformation?”, renowned experts discussed the challenges and prospects of one of the most pressing issues of our time: Is Europe facing de-industrialisation, or can a digital and sustainability-driven transformation of European industry succeed?

The diverse program offered inspiring inputs and deep insights:

• Prof. Dipl.-Kfm. Bernd Kirschner opened the event with a historical perspective on industrialization as a story of revolution and disruption.
• Prof. Dr. Oliver Som provided a scientific classification of the current developments in European industry.
• Tobias Wegener from TransnetBW GmbH gave an impressive account of how the energy sector in Germany is preparing for future challenges.
• Mag. (FH) Thomas Fritz, MSc. from Tiroler Rohre demonstrated how strategic specialisation can safeguard international competitiveness in a market dominated by large players.
• Richard Neumann, M.A. from the SWARCO Group concluded the program with fascinating insights into the company's internationalization strategy.

The final plenary discussion and the Happy Networking session provided space for exchange, new perspectives, and engaging conversations in a relaxed atmosphere.

Prof. Bernd Kirschner and Prof. Oliver Som expertly guided participants through the afternoon, fostering a lively and thoughtful dialogue with the audience.

We sincerely thank all contributors, participants, and supporters for an insightful, well-attended, and thoroughly successful Business Friday!