A Strong Start: First FORUMplus Poland Annual Meeting Brings Partners Together

Written by Mayte on . Posted in General, Member News.

Earlier this summer, members of the newly established FORUMplus Poland network gathered in Gajków near Wrocław for their first annual meeting. The event marked an important milestone in the development of the network and provided a platform for professional exchange, networking and discussions on future joint initiatives.

Following an informal networking evening, representatives from Techmiks, RKMpro Tools, Monte, Bosch Centrum Gdynia, Fachhandel Polska, Growinar and host company PRONAR, alongside colleagues from EDE International, came together to strengthen relationships, exchange experiences and discuss topics relevant to the continued growth of the partnership network.

From the outset, the event was characterised by open dialogue, strong engagement and a shared ambition to further strengthen FORUMplus in Poland. Throughout the day, participants focused on networking, sharing best practices and discussing industry trends, as well as initiatives aimed at advancing the FORUMplus partnership concept.

A key outcome of the meeting was the decision to develop a professional FORUMplus catalogue for the Polish market. The initiative is intended to enhance the visibility of the network and provide participating partners with an additional platform for joint marketing and communication activities.

Another highlight of the event was the presentation of official FORUMplus partner certificates, recognising the companies’ commitment to the network and symbolising the next step in its development.

“Launching FORUMplus Poland together with our partners was a very special milestone. The strong commitment and positive spirit throughout the meeting showed just how much potential this network has for the future,” said Martin Ochelski, Sales Director of EDE International AG.

International Networking in Focus: IGH Forum 2026 in Innsbruck

Written by Mayte on . Posted in Cooperation Partner, General.

37 member companies from seven countries, 29 industry partners and three intensive days of dialogue, workshops and personal encounters: IGH Forum 2026 in Innsbruck once again demonstrated the added value that a strong international network brings to the future of the specialist trade sector. As the organiser of this high-profile event, IGH Einkaufs- und Marketing eG welcomed representatives of the E/D/E Group as invited guests. The focus was on cross-border exchange, the further development of joint business relationships and the strengthening of partnerships between specialist distributors and industry.

Members and industry partners from various European markets accepted IGH e.G.’s invitation to discuss current developments in the building services and HVAC sector, learn from one another and develop shared perspectives for future cooperation. In doing so, IGH once again reinforced its position as an independent and powerful wholesale organisation that works closely and successfully with E/D/E in strategically important areas. In an increasingly complex and dynamic market environment, this kind of cross-border dialogue is becoming ever more important. Different market insights, experience and best practices from individual countries provide valuable inspiration and create new opportunities for shared growth.

Alongside an internal IGH e.G. assembly, the event focused primarily on the many opportunities for interaction between member companies and industry partners. Personal discussions helped deepen existing partnerships, establish new contacts and initiate joint projects. The strong level of participation further highlighted the strength of the network and the particular value of trusting relationships within the European specialist trade community.

For EDE International, events such as this, to which the organisation is invited as a partner, are an important part of active network development. They provide the ideal platform for bringing people together, fostering the transfer of knowledge between countries and markets, and strengthening European collaboration for the long term.

In addition to the professional programme, Innsbruck provided the perfect setting for personal interaction. The attractive social programme organised by IGH e.G. created further opportunities for discussions beyond day-to-day business and helped deepen connections within the European network.

Representing the E/D/E Group as invited guests were Peter Jüngst, Member of the Management Board of E/D/E GmbH; Annegret Franzen, CEO of EDE International AG; Oliver Anders, Head of Building Services at E/D/E GmbH; and Stefanie Giesel, Team Leader Building Services at E/D/E GmbH. Through numerous discussions with IGH members and industry partners, they gained valuable insights into developments across different European markets and took away important ideas for further cooperation.

For Annegret Franzen, CEO of EDE International AG, IGH Forum 2026 once again demonstrated the value that strong European partnerships create for the specialist trade sector. Encounters with members and industry partners from different countries, combined with the open and collaborative atmosphere, generated many new perspectives and ideas for future joint development. She expressed her particular thanks to IGH e.G. as a cooperation partner for the excellent organisation, outstanding hospitality and the overall success of the event in Innsbruck.

25 years of successful cooperation: E/D/E Group and FERNEY celebrate a special milestone

Written by Mayte on . Posted in Cooperation Partner, General.

In June, on the occasion of the Insperience Day, the E/D/E Group and Ferney Group B.V. celebrated a significant anniversary: 25 years of successful and trusted cooperation.

Over the past quarter century, this partnership has developed into a strong, cross-border collaboration that continues to generate sustainable growth and open new opportunities. From the very beginning, Ferney has played an active role in this development – as a long-standing FORUMplus partner and an early member of the EHN competence group.

A key element of this successful collaboration is the established E/D/E chain transaction model (“Reihengeschäft”), which enables efficient international business processes with partners such as Ferney Group B.V. In this context, ETRIS BANK plays an important role by ensuring reliable and secure financial processing, thereby contributing to the stability and efficiency of the entire value chain.

The cooperation between the E/D/E GmbH, EDE International AG and Ferney Group B.V. is characterized by continuity, mutual trust and a shared commitment to further development – values that have proven their strength over many years.

To mark this special milestone, Dr. Andreas Trauwein (Chairman of the Management Board of the E/D/E Group) and Annegret Franzen (Managing Director of EDE International AG) personally attended the event and presented a specially designed cooperation certificate. The certificate highlights key milestones and reflects the successful partnership over the past 25 years.

The certificate was handed over with great appreciation to Gert Rademaker (Managing Director of Ferney Group B.V.) and Fred Huurman (former Managing Director of Ferney Group B.V.), thereby honouring both the current leadership and the individuals who have shaped and accompanied this partnership over many years.

For Dr. Andreas Trauwein, the key to this long-standing partnership lies above all in the human factor. Built on trust, mutual respect and collaboration at eye level, the cooperation has evolved into a stable and deeply rooted relationship within the networks of both organisations, continuously generating sustainable added value for members and suppliers.

Looking ahead, both partners are committed to continuing this successful cooperation and further strengthening their collaboration within the European network.

Bricks & Tools joins the European Hardware Network (EHN) as a new Competence Partner

Written by Mayte on . Posted in General.

With the integration of its Belgian partner Bricks & Tools B.V. into the European Hardware Network (EHN), EDE International continues to strengthen its pan-European cooperation and expand its strategic network.

Based in Westerlo (Belgium), Bricks & Tools is a dynamic purchasing and services group dedicated to supporting independent specialist retailers in the building materials, tools and hardware sectors. The company provides its members with comprehensive services in areas such as purchasing, marketing and operational processes.

As a group of companies, Bricks & Tools focuses on strengthening the long-term competitiveness of independent retailers. Its activities centre on bundling purchasing volumes, optimising processes and offering targeted support in fields such as communication, store design and data management. The group represents a network of more than 120 affiliated locations across various segments – ranging from DIY and home improvement to professional specialist retail.

With the addition of Bricks & Tools, EHN gains not only another strong competence partner but also further enhances its collaborative reach across Europe. The network brings together leading purchasing and marketing organisations with the common goal of creating synergies, sharing expertise and building sustainable competitive advantages.

Current EHN competence partners include Agrupación de Suministros Industriales de España, S.L. (ASIDE, Spain), CECOFERSA – Central de Compras y Servicios Profesionales, S.A. (Spain/Portugal), Consorzio Distributori Utensili (CDU, Italy), EHLIS S.A. (Spain), e + h Services AG (Switzerland), E/D/E GmbH (Germany and Europe), and Ferney Group B.V. (Netherlands).

Cooperation within the EHN is characterised by a partnership-based approach: all members operate independently while collaborating in an open, constructive and trust-based environment.

It is precisely this culture of exchange between competence partners and partner suppliers that forms the foundation for innovation and long-term success in the European market.

The integration of Bricks & Tools highlights the continuous and sustainable expansion of the EHN as a strong European competence platform. At the same time, it underlines the network’s openness to committed partners who actively contribute to a shared spirit of cooperation, trust and development.

For further information, please visit EHN – European Hardware Network.

CEWAR Open Day 2026 – Experience, Innovation and Strong Partnership

Written by Mayte on . Posted in General, Member News.

On 21 May 2026, EDE International had the pleasure of attending the anniversary edition of the CEWAR Open Day – a special milestone for the Polish member company CEWAR WIĘCH SPÓŁKA JAWNA, which celebrates its 35th anniversary this year.

Under the motto “The Power of Experience. The Strength of Innovation.”, the event impressively demonstrated what has made CEWAR a successful and respected partner for decades: a strong combination of technical expertise, innovative spirit and a clear focus on customer value.

The Open Day brought together partners, suppliers and customers in a relaxed and engaging atmosphere, creating an ideal platform for exchange, inspiration and networking.

A Platform for Expertise and Exchange

Around 15 suppliers showcased their products and solutions through exhibition stands, live demonstrations and hands-on insights. The well-balanced mix of technical presentations and practical applications delivered real added value – particularly in areas such as machining tools and CEWAR’s expertise in indexing machines.

Beyond the technical content, the event provided ample opportunity for personal interaction. Conversations, new ideas and shared perspectives underlined once again the importance of strong partnerships in an ever-evolving market environment.

Experience Meets Innovation

The anniversary edition not only reflected CEWAR’s long-standing experience but also its forward-looking mindset. The company’s continuous development and openness to innovation were evident throughout the event – from the presentation of modern solutions to the dynamic exchange between participants.

Strong Partnership with EDE International

he collaboration between CEWAR and EDE International is built on trust, mutual respect and a shared ambition to create sustainable added value. As a member of the Polish FORMAT Group, CEWAR is part of a strong European network that further strengthens this cooperation and creates valuable synergies within the international partner landscape.

A special thank you goes to the entire CEWAR team for the excellent organisation and warm hospitality, which made the day both professionally rewarding and personally memorable.

We are already looking forward to the next edition and to continuing this strong and inspiring partnership.

Inaugural Visit: EDE International Team Visits Synergas S. Coop. in Spain

Written by Mayte on . Posted in Cooperation Partner, General.

Representatives from EDE International recently conducted an initial visit to Synergas S. Coop. in Spain, marking a significant step in the partnership between the two organizations. Martin Ochelski, Sales Director at EDE International, and Marcello Röös, Regional Sales Manager (Iberia) at EDE International, met with Iñigo Pérez, Managing Director of Synergas S. Coop., during this visit.

The EDE International delegation toured Synergas’s warehouse facilities and engaged in productive discussions about future cooperation and upcoming joint projects. The atmosphere throughout the visit was positive and constructive, with both parties expressing enthusiasm for the collaboration ahead.

Synergas S. Coop. is a Spanish cooperative central purchasing organization in the industrial supply and hardware sector. With over 50 years of experience, the company has its roots in the Basque region and is headquartered in northern Spain (Navarre), supporting its member companies across Spain—especially in the industrial and construction sectors.

EDE International looks forward to further strengthening this cooperation. As part of the next steps, the Synergas team is expected to make a return visit to the Einkaufsbüro Deutscher Eisenhändler (E/D/E Group) headquarters in Germany in the near future, underscoring the positive momentum of this new partnership.

EHN Annual Meeting at Soudal: Strengthening International Collaboration

Written by Mayte on . Posted in General.

In mid-April, the European Hardware Network (EHN) gathered in Turnhout, Belgium, for its annual meeting, hosted by Partner Supplier Soudal. The two-day event focused on international exchange, strategic perspectives, and the continued development of collaboration within the European network.

A Platform for Exchange and Insight

On April 15th and 16th representatives of the EHN came together to discuss current market developments, strategic priorities, and joint initiatives across Europe. The annual meeting once again proved to be a key platform for strengthening relationships and fostering collaboration among partners.  

The first day was dedicated to an intensive exchange between the Partner Supplier Soudal and the Competence Partners of EHN group. Participants gained valuable insights through a comprehensive presentation on Soudal’s history, its global business activities, and its product portfolio.

This was complemented by a guided tour of the logistics and production facilities, offering first-hand impressions of manufacturing processes and the production of Soudal’s high-quality products.

Strong Network Across Europe

The European Hardware Network – coordinated by EDE International – brings together several leading European organisations, including Aside, Cecofersa and Ehlis (Spain), CDU (Italy), e + h Service AG (Switzerland), Ferney (Netherlands), and E/D/E GmbH. Together, they pursue the common goal of strengthening cooperation with partner suppliers and expanding their activities across European markets.

Focus on Dialogue and Future Development

The meeting placed particular emphasis on the exchange of experiences and perspectives from different markets. Partners shared insights into their strategies, projects, and plans for the coming years, while also addressing operational topics such as digitalisation and varying market requirements.

Looking ahead, discussions also covered future initiatives and developments within the network, underlining the importance of continuous collaboration and joint progress.

Partnership in Practice

As part of the meeting, the EDE International delegation presented a special guest gift together with other partners – a visible sign of appreciation and the strong partnership within the network.

This year, there were also two “special guests”: the member company Bricks & Tools from Belgium and our recently acquired Partner Supplier, the supplier BOEHM S.A.S. from France.

Annegret Franzen CEO at EDE International, summarised the event:

“Meetings like this are more than an annual get-together – they are a strategic touchpoint for our European network. By sharing market insights, aligning priorities and strengthening the dialogue with partner suppliers, we create a stronger foundation for joint initiatives and sustainable growth across Europe.”

The EHN Annual Meeting once again highlighted the value of personal exchange within the network: learning from each other, sharing best practices, and jointly developing solutions. All with one clear objective – to further strengthen collaboration in the European market.

BTS Company Visits E/D/E Headquarters in Wuppertal

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EDE International recently welcomed long-standing partner BTS Company d.o.o. to its headquarters in Wuppertal. The visit marked a special occasion, as representatives of BTS travelled to Wuppertal for the first time after many years of successful cooperation.

During their visit, Dragan Grgić and Maša Bitenc engaged in an intensive and constructive exchange with E/D/E colleagues. Key topics included logistics, digital services such as the eFactory and further optimisation of electronic data interchange (EDI). The discussions were characterised by a strong spirit of collaboration, mutual understanding and a shared ambition to continuously improve joint processes.

BTS Company d.o.o. is an established wholesale company headquartered in Ljubljana, Slovenia, with a branch in Maribor and operations in Croatia, Bosnia and Serbia. With more than 35 years of experience in the market, the company offers a comprehensive portfolio ranging from cutting and measuring tools to CNC machine tools and equipment.

In addition, BTS provides extensive services including installation, maintenance and training, as well as consulting solutions in the fields of machining, robotics and production technologies.

Within the E/D/E network, BTS is a long-standing and trusted partner and plays a key role in the development and distribution of the FORMAT brand in Southeast Europe. The collaboration has grown steadily over the years, built on trust, transparency and a shared commitment to driving continuous improvement.

The visit in Wuppertal once again underlined the importance of personal exchange in international partnerships and strengthened the already close relationship between BTS Company and the E/D/E Group.

We look forward to continuing our close partnership with BTS and to further strengthening our collaboration and our excellent personal relationship in the years to come.

Introducing Verkter Group from Lithuania

Written by Mayte on . Posted in General, Member News.

At the beginning of March, EDE International welcomed a new member to its network: Verkter Group, an internationally active retailer based in Kaunas, Lithuania.

As part of joining the EDE network, representatives of Verkter visited the E/D/E headquarters in Wuppertal. The visit provided an excellent opportunity for personal exchange, open dialogue and alignment on future cooperation.

Verkter specialises in tools and accessories for both professional and DIY users, with a strong focus on e-commerce. Operating multiple country-specific online shops across the Baltic and Scandinavian regions as well as wider European markets, the company stands for a broad assortment of well-known brands, efficient logistics and customer-oriented solutions.

By becoming part of the EDE International network, Verkter strengthens the group’s presence in Northern and Eastern Europe and contributes to its continued international growth.

We look forward to working closely with Verkter and to shaping our future collaboration together within the EDE International network.

FORMAT France Group meets in Lyon for Annual General Meeting

Written by Mayte on . Posted in General.

On 10th March 2026, members of the FORMAT France Group came together in Lyon for their annual general meeting.

The event brought together key representatives of the French member companies as well as colleagues from EDE International, providing a valuable platform for exchange on current developments, strategic priorities and future activities within the French FORMAT network.

The agenda centred on the continued development of the FORMAT 3.0 sales concept, the exchange of market insights and the strengthening of collaboration within the group. In addition, overarching topics that are shaping many FORMAT markets across Europe were discussed – including the further digitalisation of sales processes and marketing, the growing importance of e-commerce and the increasing integration of digital tools into everyday business operations. Participants also exchanged views on how to further enhance the visibility and positioning of the FORMAT brand in the French market, eg. By modern marketing approaches, digital customer journeys and the use of innovative presentation formats for products.

Beyond the professional programme, the meeting once again highlighted the strength of the FORMAT network: the combination of entrepreneurial exchange, practical insights and personal interaction. A joint dinner on the evening of 9th March provided a relaxed setting for informal discussions and networking across companies and participants.

The meeting in Lyon once again underlined how important close cooperation and a shared understanding of market developments are for the continued success of the FORMAT sales concept in the French market.

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