“With the European Die Casting Competition, we’re giving this key technology the stage it deserves – as a driver of energy efficiency, lightweight design, and industrial sustainability.” – Dr. Thomas Krüger, BDG /VDD
Together with NürnbergMesse, the German Foundry Association (BDG) and the Association of German Die Casters (VDD) are once again hosting the European Die Casting Competition in 2026 – a highlight of the international trade fair EUROGUSS in Nuremberg. The aim is to spotlight the diversity, performance, and innovation potential of die cast components and underline their crucial role in the industrial transformation.
New competition structure: From material-based to application-based categories
Reflecting the changing requirements of industry and the increasing functional demands on cast components, the 2026 competition will shift its focus from traditional material categories to clearly defined application areas.
New Award Categories 2026 (Selection):
- Mobility & Transport
(e.g. automotive, e-mobility, rail solutions) - Industrial & Mechanical Engineering
(e.g. drive technology, robotics, production systems) - Electronics & Energy
(e.g. housings, thermal management, power distribution) - Medical & Lifestyle
(e.g. medical devices, consumer goods, sports equipment) - Architecture & Infrastructure
(e.g. construction fittings, fasteners, building applications)
This restructuring allows greater comparability between submissions, opens the competition to new sectors, and highlights die casting as a solution-oriented technology in a broad range of industries.
Unified format: ZINC Initiative joins the European competition
For the first time, the ZINC Initiative – previously running its own award – will be integrated into the European Die Casting Competition. This unification eliminates confusion among participants and strengthens the overall presence of the industry. With one clearly defined and professionally coordinated competition, the industry gains in visibility, credibility, and strategic impact.
Timeline: Submissions until July 11, 2025 – Awards ceremony on January 13, 2026
- Submission deadline: July 11, 2025
- Jury session: September 18, 2025
- Awards ceremony: January 13, 2026, at EUROGUSS in Nuremberg
( guest: Bavarian State Secretary Tobias Gotthardt)
The 2026 competition will also feature an accompanying media campaign highlighting the expertise and backgrounds of the jury members. All submissions will be professionally photographed, editorially presented, and promoted via the competition website, social media, and specialized industry media – offering a continuous showcase of the sector’s capabilities ahead of the official awards.
Die casting for the future – sustainable, intelligent, and essential
Despite economic uncertainty, rising energy costs, and increasing regulatory burdens, the die casting industry remains resilient. Its ability to support closed-loop material cycles, leverage secondary aluminum, and utilize new recycling alloys gives it both ecological relevance and long-term competitive advantages. The European Die Casting Competition 2026 sets a strong signal: Die casting is ready for the future.
