In the wake of a successful debut, Fakuma is once again sending a strong signal in support of young talent: within the context of the 30th Fakuma, trade fair promoters P. E. Schall, in collaboration with the trade fair advisory board and PlasticsEurope Germany, will once again be hosting Career Friday on 16 October 2026 in keeping with the maxim “Mould Your Dreams, Mould Your Future”. Pupils, students and young professionals are invited to experience the broad range of opportunities offered by the plastics industry first-hand.
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With Career Friday, Fakuma has created a platform that specifically targets young talent and provides them with practical insights into one of Europe’s most innovative industries. International exhibitors will hold exclusive events at their trade fair booths, offering insights into modern manufacturing technologies and outlining effective strategies for entering the industry.
“We don’t just want to acquaint young people with various job profiles – we want to open up real career horizons,” explains Bettina Schall, managing director of Schall Trade Fairs. “Career Friday brings talented individuals and companies together face-to-face in an authentic, pragmatic manner, on an equal footing.” “This allows visitors to discover just how exciting and progressive the plastics industry really is.”
Young visitors will benefit from direct interaction with professionals, apprentices and students employed by the exhibiting companies. This personal encounter provides realistic insights into routine daily work, development opportunities and career paths.
Guided Tours: Bridging the Gap Between Talent and Industry
One of the key features of Career Friday involves guided tours at the trade fair. The tours are once again being organised in collaboration with PlasticsEurope Germany and rank among the highlights of the exhibition programme.
Participants will be accompanied in organised groups to registered exhibitors in a targeted manner. Company representatives will present specific career opportunities, current projects and technological innovations at their booths. At the same time, space is created for personal discussion and focused networking.
“The plastics industry is in the midst of a profound shift towards greater sustainability and circular economy,” emphasises Bettina Dempewolf, head of Communications at PlasticsEurope Germany. “In particular for this reason, we need committed young professionals who will actively help shape this transformation. Career Friday is an excellent opportunity for inspiring young people to take on this task and providing them with insights into the great diversity of our industry sector.”
Plastics Industry as Innovation and Sustainability Driver
The plastics industry is regarded as a key sector for numerous future-oriented challenges – from resource-efficient production and lightweight design to innovative recycling solutions. Companies are investing continuously in new technologies and sustainable approaches, opening up attractive and varied career opportunities.
Feedback from the industry has been consistently positive. Leading companies are getting involved with their own initiatives, presentations and opportunities for discussion – a clear indication of the high priority placed on developing young talent.
Well in advance, the event is generating great interest within the education sector.
Close collaboration amongst the event organisers, industry representatives and trade associations underscores the relevance of the event and ensures a varied programme that delivers lasting value for all involved.
