According to industry representatives, almost 90% of Russian primary aluminium is now exported to non-EU markets, generating nearly USD 10 billion in annual export revenue. Russian metal is sold at discounted prices to major aluminium-processing countries, including Türkiye and China, before being converted into semi-finished and finished products that can be exported to Europe.

In 2025, Russia supplied around 20% of Türkiye’s primary aluminium imports, making it the country’s second-largest supplier. These imports increased by 5% compared with 2024 and generated more than EUR 800 million in direct revenue for Russia. Türkiye is also the EU’s largest external supplier of aluminium extrusions, including profiles, bars, rods and tubes used in construction, automotive and industrial applications, accounting for approximately 55% of EU imports in this category.

Price data further illustrates the competitive advantage. Russian aluminium billets, the primary feedstock for extrusion production, were sold into Türkiye at around 11% below comparable EU import prices in 2025. Turkish extrusions entering the EU were also priced below the EU average, including 23% lower for bars and rods, 7% lower for hollow profiles and 4% lower for solid profiles.

To close the loophole, the industry is calling for an indirect ban on Russian aluminium in the next EU sanctions package. Proposed measures include mandatory reporting of the first and second largest countries of smelt and the last country of cast, targeted customs inspections on high-risk imports, monitoring trade flows from countries importing significant volumes of Russian aluminium, and increased scrutiny of billets, extrusions and other semi-finished products.

The industry also warns that geopolitical tensions in the Persian Gulf, a major global primary aluminium production hub, could increase reliance on discounted Russian metal if regional supply is disrupted. In 2025, Gulf countries supplied around 42% of Türkiye’s aluminium ingot imports, meaning prolonged instability could accelerate substitution with Russian aluminium.

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Construction is scheduled to begin in August 2026, with the furnace rebuild taking approximately 65 days. Production is expected to resume in October 2026. The new end-port furnace will feature fully rebuilt forehearths and regenerators, a larger melting area and double the electrical boosting capacity, enabling higher output while reducing specific CO₂ emissions per tonne of glass melted.

In addition to the furnace, Stoelzle will modernise downstream production through investments in glass distribution systems, IS forming equipment, cold-end inspection technology and automated packaging. These upgrades are designed to improve manufacturing efficiency, process stability and the consistent quality required for pharmaceutical glass containers.

The project brings together leading industry suppliers, including HORN for the furnace, Interprojekt for the ESP filter, Bucher Emhart Glass for the IS machine, MORAVIA GLASS TECHNOLOGY, Heye International and Iris Inspection Machines for cold-end equipment, and B&B for packaging systems.

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Designed by City Control Ltd. and developed by RUHouse 2 Ltd., the building focuses on functional layouts, flexible interiors, and high-quality architectural solutions. The minimalist façade concept uses transparency and clean lines to create a modern expression, while the large glazed surfaces allow natural daylight to penetrate deep into the interiors, changing the atmosphere of the apartments throughout the day.

The building envelope was completed with Schüco aluminium systems from the ALUKÖNIGSTAHL portfolio, selected for their combination of thermal performance, durability, aesthetics, and advanced engineering.

The main façade solution is the Schüco FWS 50 façade system, which enables slim-profile curtain wall construction and large glass surfaces while providing excellent weather resistance and thermal insulation. The system supports the building’s lightweight visual appearance while meeting the demands of modern residential architecture.

The project’s windows and doors use the Schüco AWS/ADS 70.HI series, offering high thermal and acoustic insulation, concealed hardware, smooth operation, and refined minimalist detailing. These aluminium systems contribute to both the building’s energy performance and its premium architectural character.

For seamless indoor-outdoor connections, RUHouse II incorporates the Schüco ASE 80.HI sliding system, featuring large transparent panels, narrow profiles, panoramic views, and improved energy efficiency. The system transforms balconies and living areas into open, light-filled spaces while maintaining year-round comfort.

Key advantages of Schüco systems at RUHouse II include:

• Energy efficiency: Advanced aluminium solutions help reduce energy consumption and maintain a stable indoor climate.
• Security: The systems provide high resistance against burglary and extreme weather conditions.
• Durability: Aluminium profiles and treated glazing deliver long-term resistance to corrosion, mechanical stress, and environmental exposure.
• Aesthetics: Minimalist profiles, precise detailing, and large glass areas create a timeless contemporary architectural appearance.

RUHouse II is more than a residential development, it is an example of how advanced façade engineering, sustainable performance, and modern architectural vision can work together. Through the integration of Schüco FWS 50, AWS/ADS 70.HI, and ASE 80.HI systems, the project establishes a new benchmark for premium urban living in Sofia.

Photo credits: Stefan N. Shterev (@3inspirit)

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Developed by Breakthrough Properties, a global life sciences real estate company, One Helix provides Neogene Therapeutics with a highly advanced workplace supporting its research and development activities in biotechnology. Neogene, a wholly owned subsidiary of AstraZeneca, specializes in the discovery, development, and production of T-cell receptor (TCR) therapies aimed at treating solid cancers.

The completed five-story building forms part of the Amsterdam UMC ecosystem, one of Europe’s leading medical research environments, where scientists, physicians, researchers, entrepreneurs, and companies collaborate to accelerate advances in healthcare.

Sustainability was a central focus throughout the design and construction process. One Helix is an all-electric building designed to achieve net zero emissions and operates with net energy positive performance. The project achieved BREEAM Outstanding certification, demonstrating exceptional environmental performance, while its Material Performance Indicator (MPG) score of 0.60 reflects a strong focus on reducing embodied carbon through responsible material selection and construction strategies.

UNS designed the building to go beyond the functional requirements of a laboratory environment by integrating principles of wellbeing, flexibility, and connection with nature. Biophilic design elements, natural materials, and carefully planned collaborative spaces create an environment that supports both scientific research and employee wellbeing.

“By integrating biophilic design elements and natural materials, we’ve created spaces that go beyond functionality – spaces that promote well-being and inspire innovation for all Neogene employees,” said Ben van Berkel, Founder and Principal Architect of UNS.

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The exhibition marks an important milestone as LiSEC celebrates 65 years of innovation, reflecting on its journey from a small garage-based business to one of the world’s leading providers of integrated solutions for the flat glass industry. Throughout the event, the company will showcase technologies that address the industry’s growing demand for greater efficiency, sustainability, and production flexibility.

LiSEC’s exhibition will cover the complete glass processing value chain, demonstrating how consulting expertise, advanced machinery, intelligent automation, digital software, and lifecycle services work together to optimize manufacturing performance. Visitors will gain insight into solutions that improve every stage of production, from glass cutting and processing to insulating glass manufacturing and factory-wide digital connectivity.

Among the featured technologies will be advanced laser processing systems that enable highly precise, efficient, and flexible glass machining for a wide range of architectural and specialty glass applications. The company will also present its latest high-performance insulating glass production technologies, including solutions for thermoplastic spacer applications, supporting the manufacture of energy-efficient glazing systems with improved production reliability.

In addition, LiSEC will demonstrate intelligent logistics concepts designed to optimize material flow, reduce internal transport distances, and maximize available factory floor space. Complementing these systems are modern software solutions that provide real-time production transparency, enhanced process control, improved equipment performance, and greater operational reliability.

LiSEC’s experts will be available throughout glasstec to discuss industry challenges, exchange ideas with customers and partners, and explore future developments in automation, digitalization, and sustainable glass manufacturing. The exhibition will also feature a visual presentation celebrating LiSEC’s 65-year history, illustrating the company’s evolution into a global technology leader while highlighting its continued commitment to shaping the future of the flat glass industry.

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The new Edge Pro SF50 11A is among the newest generation of glass edging machines from Biesse and is considered one of the most advanced installations of its kind currently operating in the Balkans. Equipped with 11 grinding wheels, the machine incorporates a fully automatic stone management system that automatically calibrates the grinding wheels to ensure optimum edge quality throughout production. This automation minimizes manual adjustments, improves consistency and allows operators to achieve precise finishing with greater efficiency.

Another key feature is Biesse’s latest control platform, designed with a modern, user-friendly interface that simplifies machine operation while improving production monitoring and process management.

According to Roland Glass, the investment was driven by the need to increase throughput in the edging department. Until now, despite having modern cutting equipment capable of delivering high output, glass edging had become the main production bottleneck due to the heavy workload placed on a single machine.

With the installation of a second edging line, the company can now dedicate one machine to monolithic glass while processing laminated glass on the other. This significantly improves workflow organisation, reduces waiting times between production stages and increases the overall processing capacity of the factory.

The additional production capability enables Roland Glass to respond more efficiently to growing market demand, undertake larger project volumes and maintain shorter delivery times without compromising quality. The investment has also contributed to higher processing quality, improved operational performance and the creation of new employment opportunities.

Founded in 2005, Roland Glass has established itself as one of Albania’s leading architectural glass processors through continuous investment in technology, automation and skilled personnel. The addition of the Biesse Edge Pro SF50 11A further demonstrates the company’s clear vision for sustainable growth and its determination to remain at the forefront of glass processing innovation in the region.

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Scheduled to take place in Düsseldorf, Germany, from 20 to 23 October 2026, glasstec will occupy eight exhibition halls, reaffirming its position as the premier international platform for the entire glass value chain. Presenting the event, glasstec Director Daniel Feische highlighted its broad scope, covering production technologies, processing solutions, automation, advanced materials, architectural applications and industrial systems.

Among the major topics expected to dominate the exhibition are energy-efficient technologies and the growing role of artificial intelligence in glass manufacturing. AI is increasingly being adopted across the sector to optimise production processes, improve quality control, support predictive maintenance and enhance overall operational efficiency.

Innovation and research will remain central to the event through initiatives such as glass technology live, developed in partnership with the universities of Darmstadt, Delft, Dresden and Bochum. The showcase demonstrates glasstec’s commitment to connecting academic research with industrial applications and technological advancement.

Gesine Bergmann, Head of Forum Glass Technology at VDMA, emphasised the importance of knowledge sharing and professional exchange. The Forum Glass Technology will provide a dedicated platform for discussions on emerging technologies, process innovation and future industry trends.

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Recognized as one of the most influential business conferences in the UK fenestration market, the event provides a platform for manufacturers, fabricators, installers, suppliers, and industry leaders to explore the key issues shaping the future of the sector. Unlike traditional trade exhibitions, the Glazing Summit focuses on strategic conversations, market trends, and the challenges and opportunities facing the industry.

This year’s program is expected to feature expert speakers and panel discussions covering topics such as economic conditions, sustainability, regulatory developments, innovation, workforce challenges, and the evolving demands of the construction market. Attendees will have the opportunity to gain valuable insights into emerging trends while engaging directly with decision-makers and peers from across the glazing supply chain.

The event has built a strong reputation for fostering meaningful industry dialogue and creating valuable business connections. With hundreds of senior executives and company leaders expected to attend, the Summit continues to serve as an important meeting point for professionals seeking to stay informed and competitive in a rapidly changing market.

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The winning proposal was chosen following a competitive process that attracted several prominent international architecture and engineering teams. The project aims to revitalize the landmark complex while preserving its architectural and historical significance and adapting it to contemporary requirements for conferences, cultural events and public gatherings.

According to the design team, interventions within the existing Palace of Congresses will be deliberately limited, focusing on restoring and enhancing the building’s functionality while maintaining its distinctive identity. The proposal includes upgraded conference facilities, improved acoustics, enhanced circulation, new pedestrian connections and the creation of a central atrium designed to improve accessibility and public interaction throughout the complex.

A key feature of the project is the introduction of new public and green spaces surrounding the building, together with a new public square intended to strengthen the relationship between the Palace of Congresses and the urban fabric of Tirana.

Alongside the refurbishment of the existing structure, the proposal also includes the construction of a multifunctional tower reaching up to 255 meters in height. Positioned along the central axis of the Palace of Congresses, the tower is intended to establish a functional connection with the historic venue while introducing new commercial and mixed-use opportunities within the development.

Speaking during the announcement of the results, jury chair Mari Randsborg described the project as an opportunity to create lasting value for the Albanian capital.

“This project will contribute to the continued development of Tirana and, without question, create value for many future generations,” Randsborg said. She also encouraged the design team to further study the tower’s height, positioning and relationship with surrounding public spaces to ensure the best possible integration within the city.

During the presentation, Herzog & de Meuron partner Olga Bolshanina emphasized that the design seeks to respect the original character of the Palace of Congresses while opening it to new forms of public use.

The building was innovative for its time and carries significant history. Our goal is to revive the Palace of Congresses while opening it up to new public uses and creating stronger connections between its different spaces.

Bolshanina said

Prime Minister Edi Rama also highlighted the importance of balancing modernization with preservation, stating that the time had come for the transformation of the Palace of Congresses while safeguarding its unique identity.

Headquartered in Basel, Switzerland, Herzog & de Meuron is among the world’s most renowned architecture practices, recognized for delivering landmark projects across Europe, Asia and the America. The firm’s selection marks a significant step in the future redevelopment of one of Tirana’s most recognizable public buildings.

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The masterplan focuses on adaptive reuse of the existing industrial structure, integrating cultural, educational, commercial, co-working, hospitality, and leisure programmes. A key feature of the proposal is an elevated 8,000-square-metre rooftop garden positioned approximately 15 metres above street level, conceived as a continuous green landscape overlooking the surrounding urban fabric and Monte Mario hill.

At ground level, the former depot’s perimeter will be opened into a publicly accessible courtyard organised as an “urban agora.” This space is designed to host retail units, cultural venues, and flexible workspaces, aiming to restore permeability between the historic structure and the surrounding streets. Two tree-lined plazas are planned to anchor circulation routes through the site, guiding pedestrian movement between entrances and interior functions.

Above, the rooftop park introduces a layered ecological landscape composed of groves, terraces, and seasonal planting zones. The garden is designed as a network of interconnected “green rooms” linked by a looping pedestrian pathway that encourages continuous movement and varied viewpoints. The space will support public events, exhibitions, and installations, effectively extending civic life into the elevated plane of the building.

The landscape strategy prioritises biodiversity and microclimatic improvement in a densely built urban district. The introduction of trees and perennial vegetation is intended to increase shade, reduce heat gain, and improve air quality through carbon and particulate absorption.

Image Courtesy of Stefano Boeri Architetti, Stefano Boeri Architetti, Depositi Delle Vittorie Render.

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