The Asia Pacific Carbon Black Conference 2024 – Perspectives in Asia Pacific, one of the largest and most acknowledged global carbon black industry events, unfolded in Kolkata, India, marking a historic moment for the city. The 15th edition welcomed a record-breaking 252 delegates and featured compelling discussions on the future of the carbon black market, which is projected to reach USD 30.15 billion by 2029. Over three days, industry leaders explored key trends, sustainability efforts and technological innovations, underscoring the sector’s dynamic evolution and the growing importance of India in shaping its future.

The sprawling banquet of a renowned hotel in the City of Joy was attuned to the murmuring of delegates from across the globe when the speaker on the dais invited the International Advisory Committee Chairman Amit Choudhary to address the crowd. With utter excitement, the chairman ascended the stage and opened the 15th Asia Pacific Carbon Black Conference doors to the curious assembly. Over the next three days, the event featured – workshops, intriguing sessions and panel discussions on the global carbon black market, which is slated to reach USD 30.15 Billion by 2029, according to Mordor Intelligence.

From sessions on the latest trends within the space to the use of recovered carbon black and sustainability issues, the conference was a boiling cauldron of information, coupled with an exhibition spanning different makers and associated suppliers to the industry.

Speaking to Tyre Trends exclusively, Choudhary said, “Key takeaways from the conference were impactful for both participants and delegates, with a record-breaking 252 attendees from around the globe. The exhibition, featuring 36 stalls, marked the largest in the Asia-Pacific region in the event’s 31-year history. The conference kicked off with two workshops on day one, focusing on the technical aspects of carbon black and its applications across the tyre and other industries. About 70 attendees engaged in a robust discussion, addressing numerous technical queries from leading players in the carbon black industry, including Birla Carbon, Tokai Carbon, Himadri Speciality Chemical Ltd, Epsilon, PCBL, and so on.”

He added, “For the first time in its history, the conference featured panel discussions on different topics of the carbon black industry covering marketing, raw materials, application, technology and the future of carbon black, which fostered intense engagement from participants. These sessions provided valuable insights and sparked in-depth discussions, impacting all those who attended.”

Many companies attending the conference were not direct carbon black producers but played key roles in the carbon value chain, either as suppliers to the carbon black industry or as technological collaborators or customers. This diverse representation highlighted the industry’s interconnected nature, with attendees gaining exposure to the latest technologies and processes shaping the sector.

“The conference brought together a global audience, fostering collaboration and providing significant opportunities for local suppliers to engage with emerging technologies. Carbon black production in this region, particularly in India, is experiencing rapid growth.

Companies across the country, from Gujarat and Maharashtra in the west to the east and south, are expanding their operations to meet increasing demand. This growth presents ample opportunities for suppliers of essential equipment and consumables to the carbon black industry, such as refractory manufacturers, bag suppliers and packing material providers. Ultimately, the entire supply chain stands to benefit from the increased collaboration and knowledge exchange fostered at the conference,” averred Choudhary.

Quick view

George Haines, Global Product Director and Avijit Sasmal, Chief Sustainability Officer at Himadri Speciality Chemical Limited, highlighted the carbon black industry’s progress in sustainability and circularity. They emphasised advancements such as the use of recycled pyrolysis oil and reclaimed carbon black and achievements like EcoVadis and ISCC+ certifications. Himadri already achieved the milestones and is maintaining Zero Liquid Discharge (ZLD) across plants. Innovations like LFP Cathode Active Material for EV batteries and renewable energy showcased Himadri’s future readiness. This session set a benchmark for aligning industry practices with global climate goals.

Senior Manager - Technology, K. Arun Kumar, and Manager, Technology and Business Development, Dr. P.M. Sivaram, at CUMI Super Refractories, discussed enhancing reactor life in the carbon black industry through condition monitoring and refractory solutions. They emphasised the need for failure analysis, material characterisation, and data-driven strategies to predict failures, improve productivity, and reduce downtime, ultimately leading to more efficient and sustainable operations in the industry.

The workshop by Himadri Speciality Chemicals Limited Plant Head Kingshuk Bose, on ‘Recent Advancements in Carbon Black Technologies’ provided an overview of carbon black, its applications, and recent technological innovations in its manufacturing processes. He discussed new technologies such as plasma and nanotechnology, which enhance production efficiency and product characteristics. Additionally, AI and machine learning were highlighted to optimise processes, improve quality and predict maintenance needs, ultimately advancing carbon black manufacturing and packaging strategies.

The former Chief Advisor of Research and Development at Apollo Tyres, P K Mohamed, an industry stalwart, addressed the future of the tyre industry, focusing on advancements in carbon black technology in his key note address. He noted that pneumatic tyres, essential for load support, require optimal structures to endure operational pressures. The industry faced megatrends such as mobility, digitisation, electrification, and the shift toward renewable materials. Key customer expectations centre on rolling resistance, traction, durability, and sustainability improvements. Enhancements in carbon black properties, including particle size and surface chemistry, are vital for achieving these goals. The industry’s evolution towards higher sigma levels indicated a commitment to quality and performance, necessitating collaborative efforts in research and development to meet future demands.

Notch Consulting Inc. Founder and President Paul Ita spoke on the outlook for 2024 and highlighted significant developments in the global carbon black and tyre industries. He noted a projected total investment of INR 27.3 billion in new tyre capacity from 2023 to 2028, with Asia, especially China and India, leading in new projects. He also discussed the impacts of EU sanctions on Russian carbon black imports. These sanctions are shifting trade flows, with India emerging as a key supplier to replace Russian volumes. The analysis included production capacity and utilisation trends with a forecast for growth in carbon black production despite current disruptions.

The AGM Strategy at Epsilon Carbon, Sagar Mathur, noted that geopolitical shifts, rapid urbanisation, climate change, sustainability, and technological advancements are shaping the future of the carbon black industry. Key trends included the growing demand for Electric Vehicle (EV) tyres, increased focus on circularity and recycling technologies, and the need for advanced speciality products. He highlighted that urbanisation is expected to strain resources while geopolitical conflicts are reshaping supply chains. The industry must adapt to these changes while addressing environmental concerns, leading to new product development, particularly in sustainable materials.

Vice President of Sales and Marketing (CBD), Kane Hanneke and Vice President of Business Development and Sales (CBD), Surge Klunder, at Himadri Specialty Chemical Ltd, focused on the current demand and supply dynamics of carbon black in North America and the European Union as of October 2024. In their presentations, they highlighted key economic indicators such as GDP growth, inflation, and the Manufacturing Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI), while discussing challenges faced by domestic producers, including import duties, geopolitical tensions, and rising oil costs. Kane also mentioned a notable production increase among leading carbon black producers, particularly in China and India, and addressed the impact of new tariffs on Mexican imports.

Executive Vice-President and Regional Head of Sales and Marketing at Birla Carbon, Shashank Awasthi, discussed the dynamics of the carbon black market in Asia and Europe with a focus on growth plans and regional capacities. He highlighted that China dominates the market with a capacity share of 47 percent and a demand share of 37 percent. He also covered competition in India, where local producers faced challenges from imports, particularly from China, Korea, and Russia. His analysis indicated a projected CAGR of 5 percent for the Southeast Asia carbon black market from 2022 to 2027, driven by rising disposable incomes. It increased automotive production, with Asia accounting for approximately 60 percent of global automobile manufacturing.

The presentation by Zircoa Managing Director Thomas Bohm focused on the role of zirconia refractories in enhancing reactor performance during carbon black production. Zirconia, a unique ceramic material, offers exceptional properties such as high thermal resistance, lower thermal conductivity, and erosion resistance, making it suitable for high-temperature applications in reactors. The advantages of zirconia include increased reactor efficiency, improved product yields, and the ability to withstand aggressive process gases. However, challenges such as degradation from thermal shock and alkali attacks were noted, emphasising the importance of proper alignment and operational practices to maximise the lifespan of zirconia linings.

In his virtual keynote session, Zhu Zilong, deputy director of design at Doright, discussed the emerging supply trends in equipment manufacturing, particularly focusing on the shift from individual equipment supply to comprehensive equipment packages.

The landmark event saw the attendance of dignitaries and industry stalwarts, including the Chief Secretary to the Government of West Bengal, Dr Manoj Pant, Himadri Speciality Managing Director Anurag Choudhary, Tokai Carbon President Hagime Hagasaka, Group Country Head, Aditya Birla Group Thailand, and Chief Expansion Officer Birla Carbon Asia, Sanjeev Sood, among others.

Key Speakers included Aditya Birla Group’s Chief Sustainability Officer Deeksha Vats, Former President at ALSTOM Power Energy Recovery CP Natarajan, Vidhitech Solutions Founder Vinod Taneja, ABG Trading President John Kennelly, Senior Manager Research and Development of Compound Development at CEAT Limited Dr Pranab Dey, Head - Projects Business at Thermax Limited Naveen Sadhu and Rathi Group Director Ravi Rathi among others.

The event was attended by delegates from leading carbon black producers, such as Thai Tokai Carbon Product Company Limited, Hyundai OCI, Aegean First Company, Zircoa Inc., Phillips Carbon Black Limited, CITGO Corp and others.

Curtain Call

Amit Choudhary commented about the conference, “Conferences like this serve as crucial platforms for advancing technological progress in the industry. They provide insights into global trends, revealing which players are exploring new technologies and how different governments are approaching industry expectations. These events create an opportunity for stakeholders to understand evolving needs as well as the requirements of end customers.”

He added, “For instance, during our recent conference, several customers presented compelling insights, with both in-person and online interactions offering a deeper understanding of the tyre industry’s future. The rise of EVs is a key development demanding a shift in tyre technology and manufacturing processes. Current tyres are general-purpose, but as EV adoption accelerates, specialised tyres will become necessary. In the near future, we will see the emergence of EV-specific tyres alongside innovations in related non-tyre markets.”

He also noted that India, with its significant market share, is poised for substantial growth. Established markets in the US and Europe are facing challenges with plant closures and shifting demands. The ongoing geopolitical landscape, including tensions in China and Russia, is influencing market dynamics. However, India remains in a favourable position for investment and is set to experience impressive growth in the sector.

Looking ahead, the next conference is set to take place in 2026.

As sustainability becomes central to the tyre industry’s evolution, the spotlight is now shifting from just recyclability and circularity to a newer, promising domain – bio-based materials. While global tyre manufacturers invest heavily in de-carbonisation strategies, companies like Shanghai Cheeshine Novel Materials Technology Co., Ltd. are at the forefront of pushing this transition further. With a growing portfolio of innovative, high-performance bio-based solutions, Cheeshine is betting on the increasing demand for greener alternatives. However, as industry adoption remains cautious, especially in replacing petroleum-derived materials, the road to mainstream acceptance of bio-based materials may still require both technological refinement and a stronger market-driven pull.

Sustainability, recyclability, circularity and renewable materials are the main keywords of the current tyre industry. Companies have invested millions in its efforts towards reaching sustainability goals and attaining a circular economy.

But there is also a new buzz word in town – bio-based raw materials. Cheeshine is confident that the tyre industry has developed an interest towards such materials in its quest towards a sustainable future.

Speaking exclusively to Tyre Trends, the company’s Director of Research and Development Centre, Hai Li, said, “Our goal is to support the rubber industry’s sustainable development. That’s why we’ve selected certain bio-based materials, and through modification, enhanced their properties to make them suitable for rubber applications. There’s growing demand for bio-based materials in tyres due to increased environmental awareness and the need for greener alternatives.”

Founded in 2005 in Shanghai, the company delivers different products and services to the rubber industry. Over more than a decade of growth, the company has expanded its footprint with factories and offices in Jiangsu Huai’an, Jiangsu Suzhou, Shandong Linyi, Hong Kong, Chongqing, Tianjin, India and France, serving a global customer base.

It maintains long-term collaboration with leading Chinese universities and in 2016 established the ‘Cheeshine Scholarship’ at the School of Polymer Materials, Qingdao University of Science and Technology to support innovation in research and development.

With strong research and development capabilities and large-scale production capacity, Cheeshine offers six core product categories including low rolling resistance silane, high-temperature resistant cross-linking agents, wet-skid resistant resins, adhesion promoters, special reinforcing fillers and environmentally friendly processing oils.

It currently holds 108 patents and several technologies for which it has filed PCTs. A standout example is its high dispersion precipitated silica by carbonisation, the precipitated silica via CO₂ substitution for sulfuric acid, a process that currently sets it apart as the only manufacturer with this capability.

MANUFACTURING PROWESS

The company focuses on the ‘magic triangle’, which, in the tyre industry, is referred to the balance between three critical performance factors viz-a-viz rolling resistance, wet grip and wear resistance.

Cheeshine Materials manufactures through its three factories in China and ships worldwide. Its research and development hubs are also located within the country. “We’re a research and development-driven company. Our largest development centre is in Suzhou with over 80 team members, most of whom hold master’s or doctoral degrees. We have a total of three R&D centres. Our teams work closely with clients to co-develop customised and high-performance solutions. We have two main production bases – one in Hua’an, Jiangsu Province, and another in Shandong Province,” said Li.

The company registered a turnover of USD 120 million in 2024 and serves a global base of over 500 customers. Within the tyre industry, it majorly works with the global top 10.

Li expressed pride in the company’s innovations and emphasised on the broad portfolio of rubber additives and sustainable materials. Claiming that the company has a strong market presence both in China and internationally, he provided an overview of the core offerings.

Under the category of bio-based products, Li highlighted a rubber processing oil derived from modified cashew nut shell oil, a product he claimed is manufactured in China only by his company. This oil not only improves compatibility with rubber compounds but also contributes to sustainability. Another innovation was the modified natural rubber (epoxidised NR), developed to serve as a bio-based alternative to synthetic SSBR, offering enhanced performance.

In terms of eco-friendly fillers, he pointed to the high-dispersion precipitated silica by carbonisation, which is more environmentally friendly than traditional sulfuric acid-derived silica and also improves dispersion in rubber compounds. He also mentioned a high-performance liquid rubber additive known for its excellent compatibility and market success.

For advanced functional additives, he cited the modified silane coupling agent, designed to replace TESPT and improve rolling resistance and silica dispersion and currently protected under a PCT patent. The company’s multi-functional cross-linking agent enhances durability and strength, while a line of environmentally friendly accelerators was developed to minimise environmental impact during vulcanisation.

The portfolio also includes speciality resins such as a tear-resistant resin for improved tyre durability and several wet skid-resistant resins, including AMS and modified AMS resin, hydrogenated resin, bio-based resin and modified C5/C9 resin, targeted at enhancing grip on wet surfaces. Additionally, the company produces various phenolic and formaldehyde resins for specific performance attributes like heat resistance and bonding, along with anti-reversion agents and silica dispersion agents that support high-performance compound development.

Among the company’s most cutting-edge innovations is a sulfur-free curing agent, an alternative that replaces traditional sulfur in rubber vulcanisation and enhance tyre ageing resistance and wear resistance while significantly boosting overall durability performance. This agent helps reduce tyre cracking over time and extend product life. Li noted that Cheeshine Materials is currently the only company globally manufacturing this agent and has secured a PCT patent for it.

When asked about the source of their materials, Li acknowledged that while many of the older products were petrochemical-based, the company is now strongly shifting towards bio-based alternatives including bio-oils, resins and natural rubber modifications, in alignment with the industry’s evolving sustainability goals.

MARKET TALK

While the company has a kitty of impressive offerings that might cater to the emerging and evolving demands of the tyre industry, replacing traditional materials completely is a matter that is to be taken up in the near future. Of all the raw materials that go into a tyre, replacing synthetic rubber seems to be a very vague concept for many.

Alluding to why the industry will choose modified natural rubber over SSBR, Li explained, “Modified natural rubber offers higher bio-based content, which supports sustainability goals. Through our proprietary modifications, we enhance its ageing, physical and dynamic properties, making it a strong alternative to synthetic rubber.”

Commenting on challenges, Li said, “Our main challenge is the constant push to develop better products and solutions. Innovation is an ongoing effort. We’re continually working to modify bio-based materials like lignin. Many projects are ongoing, focused on improving sustainability and performance. On the cost front, we aim to keep the cost of our new products on par with conventional ones while providing the added value of sustainability.”

Li described that the business is fairly balanced between domestic and international markets. In terms of global expansion, he mentioned that growth is being driven through a network of affiliates and distributors. The company already has team members based in Paris, Copenhagen and Mumbai and are actively engaging with international partners to access new markets.

In response to questions about the shifting dynamics in Europe, particularly with some local plants shutting down, Li noted that the company is continuing to expand its manufacturing capacity in China. He cited the country’s cost advantages and strong pool of research and development talent as key factors. Looking ahead, the company plans to strengthen its presence in Europe by hiring more local technical support staff to better serve the region.

As for establishing a manufacturing plant in Europe, Li shared that there are no immediate plans to do so. However, the company may consider this move in about two or three years, particularly after the full commissioning of the new domestic plant as part of a longer-term strategy to navigate tariffs and support local demand.

When asked about the future vision, Li stated that Cheeshine Materials’ ambition is to become a true pioneer of the unexplored territories in the rubber industry. The focus remains on leading innovation and continually expanding the company’s global influence.

South Africa's tyre industry, a crucial component of the nation's automotive sector, is currently experiencing a dynamic period marked by significant growth, evolving market trends and a unique set of challenges.

A recent report by ResearchAndMarkets stated that South Africa is the largest market in terms of both production and consumption in the African region, which saw approximately 8.1 million new tyres produced locally in 2024, complemented by around 8 million imported tyres. Replacement tyres continue to dominate the market, accounting for over 70 percent of new tyre sales.

The industry is largely shaped by four major local manufacturers: Bridgestone, Continental, Goodyear and Sumitomo (Dunlop). However, these established players are now facing intense competition from an increasing influx of cheaper imported tyres, a trend that presents both consumer choice and significant pressure on local production.

In addition, the South African tyre market is also reshaping with several key trends including growing emphasis on sustainability, focus on biodegradable materials and the development of advanced tyre technologies. Urbanisation and the expansion of the middle class are driving market growth, further fuelled by an increase in vehicle sales and ownership.

Despite this growth, consumers remain highly price-sensitive, contributing to the rise of low-cost imports. The industry is also seeing increased collaboration, particularly in waste tyre management and efforts to promote local manufacturing through industry associations addressing common challenges. Investment in local production is a notable trend and the dominance of replacement tyre sales is expected to continue.

The tyre market offers numerous opportunities, including the development of products specifically tailored for local conditions, expansion of local manufacturing capabilities and significant export potential. There are also franchise opportunities within the retail and fitment centre segments, alongside a growing tyre recycling industry. The rise of electric vehicles is also creating demand for specialised tyres, while skills development, training and upskilling remain crucial for the workforce, including technicians, technologists and sales consultants. The growth of online retail further expands market reach.

The report found that the industry, however, is not without its hurdles. Intense competitive pressure, coupled with broader economic challenges, poses a constant threat. Environmental concerns surrounding tyre waste management are paramount, as is the pervasive issue of illicit trade, including smuggling, illegal imports and counterfeit products. Rising raw material and other input costs, potential impacts of global trade policies and regulatory complexities add to the burden. Furthermore, technical skills shortages and the unsafe use of second-hand tyres, often linked to improper waste tyre processing, remain significant challenges.

Looking ahead, the South African tyre industry is anticipated to experience moderate growth in the medium term. This growth will be primarily driven by increasing vehicle sales, expanding export opportunities and continued investments in technology and infrastructure.

The market outlook suggests that the increasing prevalence of predominantly Chinese and other low-cost tyres will continue to offer more options for consumers, while simultaneously posing a considerable challenge for local manufacturers. Efforts to promote and develop local manufacturing hubs are seen as vital for stimulating local production and attracting further investment. Innovations aimed at improving tyre lifespan and fuel efficiency are also expected to have both positive and negative implications for the industry's future trajectory.

Zenith Steel Group is accelerating its global expansion with a strategic focus on India, one of the world’s fastest-growing economies. The company sees significant opportunities in the subcontinent’s booming automotive sector and infrastructure development boom, positioning itself to capitalise on rising demand for steel cord and tyre manufacturing components.

Chairman and President Dong Caiping leads the company’s international push, combining advanced manufacturing technology with localised market knowledge to establish Zenith’s footprint in India’s competitive industrial landscape. The strategy reflects broader Chinese industrial ambitions to expand beyond domestic markets while navigating complex regulatory environments and established local competition.

India’s steel cord industry, essential for tyre manufacturing, presents both opportunities and challenges as the country’s automotive sector expands rapidly. Zenith’s approach emphasises sustainable development and technological innovation, key differentiators in a market increasingly focused on environmental standards and operational efficiency.

The company’s expansion plans include establishing technology centres and strengthening supply chain infrastructure in India, signalling long-term commitment to the market. Caiping discusses how international expertise merged with local insights creates value, the lessons learned from other global markets and Zenith’s vision for sustainable growth in India’s evolving industrial ecosystem.

Why did Zenith enter the Indian market, and where does it fit in your vision of the world?

Zenith entered the Indian market because we see great growth potential in the market, a huge consumer base and the increasing demand for infrastructure development. As one of the fastest-growing economies in the world, India has a broad market prospect for the tyre and related industries. The Indian market is an important growth engine that helps Zenith achieve its strategic goals of global expansion and market share enhancement.

Along with being an integrated wire rod maker, Zenith brings unique values. What unique preposition Zenith brings to the Indian tyre industry?

Zenith will bring unique value to the Indian tyre industry with its advanced intelligent manufacturing technology, high-quality products, innovative solutions and commitment to sustainable development.

How would you perceive the interplay between international know-how and local knowledge in the creation of value in India?

International experience provides Zenith with advanced management concepts, technical standards and a global perspective, which helps to quickly improve operational efficiency and product quality. Local knowledge, on the other hand, enables Zenith to better understand the unique needs, cultural background and business rules of the Indian market, thus achieving precise positioning and effective communication. The combination of the two can help Zenith create greater value in the Indian market and achieve sustainable development.

In what ways does Zenith’s commitment to the Indian market reflect in its investment and expansion strategy?

Zenith may demonstrate its long-term commitment to the Indian market by establishing a technology centre and strengthening local supply chain construction in India, thereby consolidating its position in the Indian market.

What are the prospects in store for the Indian steel cord industry?

With the rapid development of the automotive industry, the continuous growth of tyre market demand and the ongoing progress of infrastructure construction in India, the steel cord industry, as a key raw material supplier for tyre manufacturing, has a broad prospect. It is expected that in the coming years, the steel cord industry in India will maintain stable growth. However, it will also face challenges such as technological innovation and increasing environmental protection requirements, which require enterprises to continuously enhance their competitiveness to adapt to market changes.

What makes you optimistic about Zenith’s long-term success in India?

Zenith’s long-term success in India may be based on its strong brand influence, advanced technological capabilities, in-depth understanding of the Indian market and good cooperative relationships with the local government and enterprises. In addition, the continuous growth potential of the Indian market, Zenith’s own strategic planning and execution capabilities and its emphasis on sustainable development have all laid a solid foundation for its long-term development in India.

What lessons from other markets has Zenith successfully implemented in India?

Zenith has applied experiences accumulated from other markets in areas such as brand building, marketing, customer relationship management, supply chain optimisation and digital transformation to the Indian market.

Where is India positioned in Zenith’s worldwide chain of innovation?

India plays an important role in Zenith’s global innovation chain. On the one hand, the market characteristics and needs of India provide Zenith with inspiration and motivation for innovation, driving the company to innovate locally in products, technology and services. On the other hand, India’s talent resources and the continuously developing technological environment also support Zenith’s global innovation, enabling it to better integrate global resources and enhance its overall innovation capabilities.

What is it that you wish to tell potential Indian partners and customers about Zenith’s future vision?

We would like to convey to potential Indian partners and customers Zenith’s determination to develop long-term in the Indian market, as well as its vision to continuously innovate, improve product quality and service levels and provide more valuable solutions to Indian customers. At the same time, we emphasise the concept of mutual growth and win-win cooperation with partners, as well as our commitment to sustainable development, to enhance the confidence of partners and customers and attract more support and cooperation.

Prometeon Tyre Group, a leading global manufacturer of Industrial, Agro and OTR tyres, has announced three key leadership appointments and the creation of a new Global Sales Department. Francesco Antonacci has been named Chief Commercial Officer (CCO), Federica Boscolo takes on the role of Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO) and Antonio Melone joins as Chief Manufacturing Officer (CMO). All three executives will report directly to Liang Yuan, the Deputy General Manager.

Francesco Antonacci, who previously served as Prometeon’s CEO for Region Europe for over three and a half years, will lead the newly established Global Sales Department. With a degree in Economics and extensive managerial experience at Pirelli and Prometeon, he will drive the Group’s commercial growth, strengthen relationships with global customers and identify new business opportunities.

Federica Boscolo, a graduate in Diplomatic Science and International Relations, steps into the CHRO role to align HR strategy with the company’s objectives. Beginning her career at Pirelli, she has been with Prometeon since 2018, gaining HR expertise in both Italian and international markets.

Antonio Melone, the newly appointed CMO, will oversee the Group’s industrial operations. He brings decades of manufacturing experience from prominent companies, including Loro Piana, Magneti Marelli, Whirlpool, Indesit and FCA. These strategic appointments reinforce Prometeon’s commitment to growth and operational excellence.