Trade, Regulation and the Value of Agility
14 July 2026 Two headlines this week tell an interesting story about two very different approaches to doing business in Europe. On one hand, the European Commission has conditionally approved the Baker Hughes-Chart Industries merger, subject to a series of remedies following a detailed competition review. That is the EU’s institutional model at work, comprehensive, rules-based and regulatory. On the other, the UK has concluded a new trade agreement with Switzerland. It is another reminder that, post-Brexit, Britain is able to pursue its own commercial relationships and trade priorities. For those of us involved in international commodities and supply chains, the contrast is noteworthy. Commodity markets thrive on certainty, speed and the ability to respond quickly to changing market conditions. Traders need governments that facilitate commerce, open markets and remove unnecessary friction. While robust competition rules have an important role to play, there is also a strong case for agile trade policy that enables businesses to seize opportunities as they arise. Switzerland has long demonstrated how a relatively small nation can punch well above its weight by championing free trade, commercial pragmatism and international connectivity. The UK’s growing engagement with Switzerland suggests an ambition to embrace more of that outward-looking mindset. From the perspective of businesses operating across global commodity markets, this is an encouraging direction of travel. Success increasingly belongs to economies that can move quickly, build trusted partnerships and provide the confidence businesses need to invest, trade and grow. At Gapuma Group, we welcome policies that strengthen international trade, reduce barriers and create an environment in which businesses can compete, innovate and deliver value across global supply chains.
K Show 2025: Gapuma Seizing the Opportunity Innovation, Collaboration, and Global Partnership
16th October 2025 Every three years, K Show Düsseldorf brings the global plastics and rubber industry together under one roof, showcasing the ideas and technologies shaping the future of sustainable manufacturing. This year, Gapuma was represented by Purchasing Director Russell Brill, who joined thousands of international delegates to engage with long-standing suppliers and emerging innovators. His meetings reinforced Gapuma’s commitment to resilient, forward-looking partnerships grounded in trust, quality, and shared growth. For Gapuma, K Show is far more than an exhibition. It is an essential forum for exchanging insight, exploring new innovations, and strengthening the collaborative spirit that underpins our global supply chain. We extend our thanks to all partners and colleagues for their hospitality, inspiration, and continued confidence. Together, we remain focused on driving progress and sustainability across the industry.
Bridging 6,000 Miles: South Africa’s Dave Steward Visits Gapuma HQ in London
Bridging 6,000 Miles: South Africa’s Dave Steward Visits Gapuma HQ in London 22nd May 2025 Gapuma was pleased to welcome Dave Steward, one of our dynamic sales associates from South Africa, to our Head Office in London this week for a focused three-day fact-finding mission. Dave plays a pivotal role in driving growth across southern Africa, a region that now contributes around 10% of Gapuma’s annual turnover. His visit marks a vital step in aligning regional operations with the company’s wider global ethos. “Being here has been about more than just meetings,” Dave explained. “It’s about truly understanding the culture, brand values and working practices at the heart of Gapuma. My goal is to take that energy and insight back to South Africa — to help our team there feel more connected to the wider business and to apply what I’ve learnt to strengthen our operations.” Over the course of the visit, Dave sat down with senior managers across key departments, delved into the company’s commercial and compliance processes, and explored how Gapuma’s values are embedded in its day-to-day operations. By observing the rhythm of life at HQ, Dave is helping close the 6,000-mile gap between the UK and South Africa. Reflecting on his trip, he said: “This visit has been incredibly valuable. I’ll be going back with a notebook full of ideas, a better sense of the company’s strategic direction, and a renewed sense of purpose. There’s so much happening here that can feed directly into the growing success story we’re building in South Africa.” With global collaboration at the heart of Gapuma’s success, Dave’s visit is a reminder that international distance is no barrier when teams are united by vision, purpose, and shared ambition.