Research as a competitive advantage
With an annual research output of 25 million euros and the highest research intensity among Western aluminum manufacturers - according to the EU research report - AMAG plays a pioneering role in the development of sustainable aluminum solutions. The company focuses on special applications, combining technological excellence with environmental awareness.“Our ability to deliver aluminum with outstanding properties and a minimal carbon footprint is not an option, but a necessity. Without continuous cutting-edge research, we would neither be able to compete internationally nor secure our innovation leadership,” emphasizes Dr. Helmut Kaufmann, CEO and COO of AMAG.
- TU Graz: Support with state-of-the-art plant technology, such as a 3D metal printing system.
- University of Leoben: Financial support for the establishment of a microstructure center.
These partnerships underline AMAG's long-term strategy of securing its technological lead through cutting-edge research and cooperation.
Political appeal: more research funding required
Despite the commitment of private companies such as AMAG, their contribution is not enough to secure Austria's position as a leading location for innovation. Technical universities in particular require significant public investment in order to remain internationally competitive.
A comparison shows that Austria is lagging behind:
- In Switzerland, 150 euros per inhabitant are spent on basic research every year.
- In Finland and the Netherlands, this amount is over 80 euros.
- In Austria, the investment is only 40 euros per inhabitant.
In view of these figures, AMAG sees an urgent need for action to increase the budget for research funding. The company refers to the already successful research funding structure in Austria. Programs such as the Christian Doppler Society, the FFG's basic program and the COMET competence centers have proven their worth, but require more funding in the long term. The Austrian Institute of Technology (AIT), as the largest non-university research institute, also plays a central role and should be given more support.
“Technical universities and existing, well-functioning research structures need stable and sufficient funding. The allocation of funds should focus on cutting-edge research and not be based on the scattergun principle,” demands Kaufmann.
Research as a foundation for the future
For AMAG, one thing is clear: without a continuous strengthening of cutting-edge research, Austria risks falling behind in international competition. Only through sufficient public and private investment can companies like AMAG continue to develop innovative solutions that promote both economic success and sustainability. The promotion of research and development is therefore not only an economic necessity, but a strategic imperative for Austria as a business location.
