The Federation of Mechanical Industries (FIM) brings together 18 unions. The UITS joins the FIM. Each entity has very distinct subjects, the UITS working on the entire specific material processing aspect and the FIM on transversal subjects. With the arrival of a new presidency, Jean-Claude Fayat having been elected President of the FIM in June to replace Henri MOREL whose mandate was coming to an end, the FIM has intensified its actions in terms of market protection and communication
A market under tension but full of opportunities
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Studies carried out by the FIM highlight persistent difficulties for the European market. The increase in demand, expected until 2030-2035, comes up against European prices considered uncompetitive compared to those practiced outside the European Union. According to the OECD, countries such as the United States, India, Korea and China are offering more attractive prices, thus creating risks for the competitiveness of European players. The FIM takes a position on these subjects and works on exemptions.
A stabilized economy but under geopolitical influence
Jonathan Fhima, president of the UITS, takes stock of the situation for the profession. For French SMEs and VSEs, the economic situation shows signs of stabilization in 2025. Jonathan Fhima also indicates that employability in the industry remains correct or is increasing again, particularly in the construction sector. As for UITS members, an average growth of +5% in turnover was recorded, despite some disparities between companies. On the equipment manufacturers side, the threat of a closure of the American market worries the professionals present.
Some UITS actions in 2025
Anne-Sophie MAZE, general delegate of the UITS, indicated that particular emphasis had been placed on both internal and external communication with the development of a new CRM which will provide new services to members. Another ambitious project started in 2024, UITS and Quarks are finalizing a module integrated into Quarks Safety to facilitate the environmental management of workshops. The first tool, dedicated to materials processing ICPEs, will soon be operational! It will be offered exclusively to UITS members and will allow simulations, inventory of products, management of stocks, baths and regulatory compliance of the site.
PFAS and Chrome VI
An update was also made on the latest regulatory news concerning Chrome VI and PFAS, two sensitive issues for the surface treatment sector. As for Chromium VI, ECHA has submitted a proposal for restrictions targeting certain substances. This text, which notably includes uses linked to surface treatment, is currently the subject of a public consultation. To support its members, the UITS has provided a tool to facilitate their participation. At the same time, a collective response will be sent by the CETS. Concerning PFAS, the UITS is carefully following the European project to restrict PFAS as well as the regulatory texts resulting from the decree relating to the trajectory for reducing PFAS discharges, adopted in September.
UITS calls on ANTHENOR to develop its institutional communication
The UITS has been working for a year with ANTHENOR, a firm specializing in business support and institutional communication. ANTHENOR helps the UITS to develop a strategy aimed at strengthening the image of members, improving their attractiveness and facilitating dialogue with public authorities, both at national and European level.
A convention closing under the sign of optimism
The subject of artificial intelligence brings interesting perspectives in the processing of materials making it possible to improve defect detection and gain in productivity and competitiveness. Thus the company DeepHawk, through the voice of Gilles Allain, CEO and co-founder of DeepHawk, presented an innovative system allowing real-time detection of defects present on coated parts. It’s difficult to end this annual convention without taking a tour of the geopolitical landscape which is changing maps and forecasts. Thus Frédéric Encel, doctor in geopolitics and professor at Sciences Po Paris, spoke by declaring that despite the various conflicts reigning on the planet, we should not put ourselves in an apocalyptic posture. If Mr. Encel underlined the major impact of international tensions on the industrial sector, the examples taken from the various previous conflicts helped to illustrate the balance of power, the internal conflicts experienced by business leaders and their close colleagues. He also recalled the importance of anticipating crises and the need to strengthen resilience, while preparing simple and adaptive action plans. This conference finished, the members then headed to the memorial for a very moving private visit. The gala dinner also took place at the Memorial.
