Rematec on tour... to Germany

Welcome to our new monthly column at Rematec, where we bring you a unique perspective on the global remanufacturing industry. Each month, one of our local sales agents will take you on a journey to their home country, providing insights into the latest trends, challenges, and opportunities in the remanufacturing market. This month, we turn our focus to Germany and welcome Claudia Raei, our dedicated sales agent in the region.

Could you share some interesting facts and figures about the remanufacturing market in your region, such as its size, potential, and which segments are currently the main focus?

Claudia Raei: Of course! In 2023, the total production of vehicles in Germany reached 4.1 million, with 3.1 million vehicles being exported. Notably, 1.3 million vehicles were equipped with alternative drives. Experts predict that global demand for lithium-ion batteries will rise from today’s 200 GWh per year to more than 2,000 GWh by 2030, with electromobility playing a major role. It’s also worth mentioning that almost 50% of European remanufacturing activities take place in Germany, France, the Netherlands, the Czech Republic, the UK, and Poland.

What trends and developments do you see in your country and among exhibitors of Rematec?

Claudia Raei: Corporate sustainability and e-mobility are prompting companies to rethink their strategies, and remanufacturing is gaining momentum. Suppliers and manufacturers are currently strengthening their activities in the market for remanufactured automotive spare parts. A new DIN regulation published last year, specifically DIN SPEC91472, has established clear guidelines. This regulation differentiates remanufacturing from other value-preserving processes such as repair and refurbishment. For customers, a remanufacturing label according to this DIN SPEC serves as a key decision criterion.

For instance, Bosch has implemented serial remanufacturing and was able to save around 3,100 tons of various metals in 2019. They expect a stable market for remanufacturing but aim to double their business in the circular economy sector by 2030. ZF, a long-standing German automotive supplier with a reman division, is saving over 90% in materials and energy. Additionally, ZEISS has started a collaboration with BORG Automotive, one of Europe’s leading independent remanufacturers. Researchers at the ZEISS Innovation Hub in Karlsruhe are working closely with BORG’s developers to explore new visual and automated solutions for modern remanufacturing processes, enhancing quality and service life of components.

Who are interesting exhibitors at ReMaTec Amsterdam to you, and could you share a quote from one?

Claudia Raei: Key exhibitors include Robert Bosch and ZF, both of which have significant roles in remanufacturing. Bosch’s exchange program and ZF’s aftermarket portal are great resources for attendees. I’d also like to highlight Circular Economy Solution.

One quote that stands out comes from Coreman Net: “The whole industry meets at ReMaTec. We are excited to join ReMaTec 2025 again with CoremanNet. It is THE trade show for the automotive aftermarket. For us, it is a perfect networking platform and meeting point with all our customers, suppliers, and partners.”

What’s important for visitors of ReMaTec to know about exhibitors from Germany?

Claudia Raei: Visitors should take the opportunity to discover the latest trends and technologies in remanufacturing, as well as to connect with major German players. Understanding the demand for remanufactured products in the German market will provide valuable insights into the industry’s direction.