Following the acquisition of New Era Converting Machinery Inc. by IPCO AB, a new global player in converting and process equipment has emerged. In this interview, Jens Gegner, Global Segment Manager Composites at IPCO, and Paul Lembo, Managing Director at New Era, discuss the integration, key synergies and future strategy.
Mr Lembo, Mr Gegner – how have your roles evolved as part of the integration?
Jens Gegner: I have been with IPCO for around 25 years, starting in engineering before moving into sales. Today, I am responsible for global segment management, including turnkey solutions for composites. My background helps me approach customer projects from a holistic perspective.
Paul Lembo: I essentially grew up within New Era, which was a family-owned business. I worked across multiple functions before moving into sales and business development. Today, my focus is on leveraging the new structure and driving growth within the combined organisation.
What role does New Era currently play within IPCO?
P. Lembo: For now, New Era remains as a brand, which is intentional. At the same time, we are already closely integrated. In the long term, the goal is to move towards a unified organisation, but the current focus is on combining strengths effectively.
J. Gegner: The key advantage is that we can now offer a much broader portfolio. Previously, IPCO often covered only part of the process, while upstream and downstream steps were handled by partners. Today, we can increasingly deliver complete process lines.
How have customers responded to the acquisition?
P. Lembo: There was some initial surprise, particularly given New Era’s history as a family business. Overall, however, the response has been very positive. Customers recognise the benefits of a stronger global footprint and enhanced financial stability.
J. Gegner: I can confirm that. Customers clearly see the added value of combining technologies and offering integrated solutions.
Are there already joint projects that demonstrate these synergies?
J. Gegner: Yes, for example a recycling project in Spain, where multiple process steps are combined into a single line. This is where the strengths of both companies come together.
P. Lembo: In addition, IPCO’s existing customer relationships are opening new opportunities for New Era. We recently secured a calendering project that we might not have won previously – the combined presence made a difference.
Composites appear to be a key focus area. What role do they play?
J. Gegner: Composites cover a wide range of applications, from construction to transportation. Our technologies enable flexible processing of different materials. Recycling is becoming increasingly important, particularly with fully recyclable material concepts.
P. Lembo: Both companies were already active in similar markets, but with different technologies. IPCO focuses on double belt presses, while New Era specialises in lamination and calendering. Together, we can address customer needs more comprehensively.
How do you assess the current battery market?
P. Lembo: The past years have been characterised by exploration and technology evaluation. Currently, we see some consolidation and a temporary slowdown, but the long-term outlook remains strong.
J. Gegner: In the automotive sector, there is some hesitation at the moment. However, new approaches such as dry processing technologies are emerging. We are actively developing equipment in this area and continue to see promising projects.
What are your current technology priorities?
J. Gegner: One example is advanced scattering technology for powders and fibres, which opens up new applications, particularly in recycling.
P. Lembo: Our focus is on presenting the full combined portfolio. The goal is to position ourselves as a single source supplier for complete process solutions.
Finally, what are your goals for the coming years?
P. Lembo: A key priority is joint market presence. We are already participating together in major trade shows to communicate our new capabilities. At the same time, we aim to strengthen global customer relationships.
J. Gegner: We also want to bring new technologies to market and expand in sustainable applications. The combination of experience, global reach and expanded technology provides a strong foundation for future growth.