Composites Sector Meets at Holland Composites

On 10 June, members of CompositesNL gathered at Holland Composites in Lelystad for the CompositesNL Members Network Event. The meeting focused on developments that will shape the Dutch composites industry in the years ahead, including regulatory changes, strategic value chains, circularity, and the availability of sustainable raw materials.

One of the key topics was the evolving regulatory framework surrounding styrene. The CompositesNL Styrene Working Group provided an update on the implications of Dutch legislation and the collective efforts of companies to develop practical solutions that balance safety, regulatory compliance, and competitiveness.

The transition towards bio-based and circular composites was also high on the agenda. Wageningen Food & Biobased Research presented the KOMposites and Compocycle projects, which focus on the development of new material solutions, recycling pathways, and stronger collaboration across the value chain.

In addition, participants discussed the growing importance of strategic autonomy and critical value chains. Representatives from the Dutch Ministry of Defence highlighted how materials expertise, innovation capacity, and manufacturing capabilities are becoming increasingly important for future defence applications. For the composites sector, this creates opportunities to further position its knowledge and technologies within both national and European programmes.

During a tour of Holland Composites, participants gained insight into how developments in bio-based materials, fire-resistant composites, and industrial scale-up are being translated into practical applications in sectors such as construction, infrastructure, and the maritime industry.

The event once again demonstrated that collaboration across the value chain is essential to turning societal challenges related to sustainability, strategic autonomy, and innovation into new applications and economic opportunities for the sector.

CompositesNL would like to thank Holland Composites for hosting the event and all speakers for sharing their knowledge and insights. It is through this exchange of expertise, practical experience, and innovation that the Dutch composites sector continues to develop and strengthen.