Germany’s Nordwest steps up trade in France

German steel purchasing cooperative Nordwest Handel with its steel sub-division Stahlverbund Phoenix is strengthening partnerships in other European countries.

An initial strategy meeting with French specialist trade partners was held in Paris at the beginning of February, headed by Nordwest’s Vincent Wicker, who was appointed project manager Steel Western Europe in September. Around 20 people discussed the activities of the Phoenix group, Kallanish learns.

In addition to expanding the number of trade partners for Phoenix group, a further goal is to increase the supplier portfolio, the company notes. “Compared with Germany, the share of private SMEs in the steel market in France is considerably lower. However, the importance of medium-sized companies is growing increasingly,” Wicker says.  

The strategic orientation was further defined and worked out together with the French partners, so that volumes will continue to be bundled. At the beginning of last year, the tonnage was already increased, Nordwest says. The German cooperative also plans another meeting with its Polish cooperation partner ESG, at which further measures for joint market development will be discussed and promoted.