EXHIBITOR INTERVIEW
Achim Raab, Managing Director,
W. KÖPP GmbH & Co. KG
Can you tell us about your role at W. KÖPP and what your responsibilities entail?
I am the managing director and principal shareholder of W. KÖPP GmbH & Co. KG, and in these roles I am responsible for the fundamental direction and strategy of the company. I see my most important task as the consistent completion of W. KÖPP's vertical integration along the entire value chain in the foamed cellular rubber and polyethylene business.
Can you tell us about W. KÖPP’s journey in the foam industry and what sets your products apart from competitors?
W.KÖPP GmbH & Co. KG has been active in the foam industry for almost 100 years and has unrivalled experience and expertise in the manufacture and processing of foam in Europe. The fact that we are manufacturers of foamed cellular rubber and polyethylene ourselves sets us apart from all other players in the market, who either do not manufacture themselves (e.g. Interflex) or alternatively only manufacture cellular rubber or cellular polyethylene (e.g. Interep/Socatex or UFM). We are the only ones who can do both.
Your company recently announced the release of EPDM 2000 open-cell foam as continuous rolls without joints. What inspired this innovation, and how does it improve material utilization for manufacturers?
A few years ago, we presented our first semi-closed product at Foam Expo. This EPDM-SC-W has the advantage of being waterproof from as little as 40% compression. However, there is a visual difference compared to other manufacturers (e.g. Nitto). That is why, one year later, we presented our EPDM-1000, which is manufactured as block foam and therefore has an adhesive seam every 2 metres. The logical consequence was the further development of a 20-metre-long roll without an adhesive seam – the EPDM 2000 series.
What industries or applications do you see benefiting the most from the new EPDM 2000 continuous rolls, and how might this product impact manufacturing efficiency?
The continuous roll means less waste for the customer, provided that no finished parts with adhesive seams are permitted. It is used in the automotive sector and in a wide variety of acoustic applications.
How does W. KÖPP’s focus on efficiency and cost-effectiveness align with the growing demand for sustainable and high-performance foam solutions?
That is the biggest challenge for us: How can we offer sustainably produced top-quality products at competitive prices? Answer: By having the leanest organisation in the industry, consistently expanding and optimising our state-of-the-art production facilities in Romania as well as – most importantly – having a 110% commitment to always achieving the best for our customers.
As a Platinum Sponsor of Foam Expo Europe 2025, what motivated W. KÖPP to partner with the event, and what value do you see in engaging with the engineering community here?
We are fully focused on Foam Expo Europe. We have cancelled our appearances at all other trade fairs in Europe. Only Foam Expo Europe offers maximum focus on the foam industry. Only here are all the important players in the market (customers/suppliers/competitors) represented. This is where the most important deals are made. This is where you need to be.
Why should attendees make a point to visit the W. KÖPP booth at this year’s expo, and what can they expect to learn about your latest innovations?
Over the years, W. KÖPP has always had one of the most interesting stands at Foam Expo Europe. Every year, we have set a different focus and presented it in a visually striking way. This year will be no different. We will once again be showcasing a wide range of new products. Come and see for yourself.
What do you see as the most pressing challenges facing the foam industry through 2026, and how is W. KÖPP positioning itself to address these challenges?
The biggest challenges for production in Europe are the very high material and energy costs compared to Asia. Certain raw materials required for production are available in Asia at half (!) the price charged in Europe, while offering the same quality. The same applies to industrial electricity prices.
We produce our cellular rubber and cellular polyethylene at our factory in Romania, where Valentin Dubea is doing an excellent job as managing director. There we benefit from a cost base that is competitive compared to the rest of Europe. Even though overall manufacturing costs in Eastern Europe are still higher than in Asia, we benefit from our proximity to our customers in Europe.
How does W. KÖPP’s EPDM 2000 series contribute to advancing foam technology, and what role do you see it playing in industries like automotive, construction, and packaging?
The new series plays a crucial role, as there is no comparable quality in Europe. The 2000 series is therefore an important addition to the portfolio for a wide range of industries and applications. Make Europe Great Again!
What are you most excited to showcase at Foam Expo Europe 2025 in Stuttgart this November, and how do you hope attendees will benefit from engaging with your team?
Since all of our products are outstanding in some way, it is difficult for me to identify a highlight. As a visitor to our stand, you will definitely not be disappointed. We solve (almost) every problem.
Meet the W. KÖPP team this November in Stuttgart!
W. KÖPP will be exhibiting at Foam Expo Europe 2025 at stand 520. To meet with them, plus many more leading suppliers of foam products and solutions, be sure to register in advance for your free pass below.
Working closely together: Achim Raab (right), Managing Director of W. KÖPP GmbH & Co. KG, with Valentin Dubea, Managing Director of KOEPP Romania S.R.L.