EGMF’s mission is to to serve as a spokesperson for the manufacturers of outdoor power equipment in Europe and internationally and to provide expertise to stakeholders on technical, marketing, market data, and trends related to the garden and outdoor power equipment industry.
This is only possible with the help and support of our members – a very good reason to get to know them better!
We spoke with Anna Hackstein, General Manager, to find out more about IVG.
What is your mission?
Industrieverband Garten (IVG) e.V. represents the interests of manufacturers of consumer goods in the green sector for the hobby and professional market. It currently unites around 150 member companies and campaigns for their interests at all levels. For 50 years now, we have been standing up for the supplier side of the garden market – a market that offers promising future prospects. Such a strong sector needs a strong voice. We advocate for our members in several ways – as advisor, communicator, representative and expert.
How does EGMF support your goals?
EGMF supports our work as national association by providing information on current and future relevant European directives and regulations and highlighting their effects at an early stage. By jointly drafting statements or position papers, EGMF serves as a spokesman who efficiently represents the united interests of the garden machinery industry vis-à-vis third parties. Market data submitted by member companies and discussed every six months, provides useful information on the European market development in the various product categories, shows current and future market and technology trends and thus complements our national market information.
What are you most proud of about your association?
We are particularly proud of the fact that many founding members are actively contributing in the work of our association for 50 years. This confirms the path we have taken and also wish to continue in the future. We see ourselves as a modern association that not only represents the interests of its members but also provides them with services.
Where do you see the future of the garden machinery industry heading? What do you see as EGMF’s main priority in creating the right conditions for the industry?
The electrification of machinery has long since reached the garden sector, so now we face issues such as battery passport, transportation and collection of batteries and accumulators, but also the use of recyclates. At the same time, alternative fuels are being sought or developed for combustion engine powered machines in order to further operate these machines in a sustainable manner and in compliance with climate targets. It is thus important that EGMF continues to keep its members informed and act as a stakeholder for technology openness in the relevant committees of European legislative bodies. In addition, the number of regulations applicable throughout Europe is increasing, especially with regard to the Green Deal, here, too, it is crucial to represent the interests of the garden machinery industry.