Aperam wins 2025 Innovation Award in Limburg, Belgium
Aperam, a global player in stainless, electrical, alloys and specialty steels as well as recycling and renewables, is proud to announce that it has been named the winner of the 2025 Innovation Award in Limburg, Belgium, recognizing the company as one of the region’s most innovative industrial leaders. The award, presented by Voka – KvK Limburg, in collaboration with the Flanders Innovation Institute (VLAIO) and the Province of Limburg, celebrates companies that create tangible economic and societal value through innovative products, processes, and business models.
Selected from a highly competitive field, Aperam was recognized by the jury for its pioneering work at the Genk site, where the company developed a fully in-house, AI-driven inspection system for the automated detection of surface defects on stainless steel. By combining advanced imaging, artificial intelligence, and software development within a single modular platform, Aperam has significantly enhanced product quality, production efficiency, and process reliability, while reinforcing the technological strength of Limburg’s industrial ecosystem.
Jimmy de Wilde, Plant General Manager at Aperam Genk site, commented: “This award is a powerful recognition of the ingenuity and dedication of our teams in Genk. By bringing together internal expertise and academic collaboration, we have transformed advanced digital technologies into a practical industrial solution that strengthens both our competitiveness and the future of manufacturing in Limburg. We sincerely thank our employees, partners, fellow nominees, and the organizers who made this achievement possible.”
Voka, the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Limburg, highlighted the project’s strategic impact, noting that the system has transformed production processes and contributed to strengthening Aperam’s market position. According to the jury, the project demonstrates a high level of technological maturity and a structured approach to change management. The decision to develop the innovation in-house, with the involvement of relevant experts and partners, positions Aperam as a reference case for innovation within Limburg’s industrial sector.
Voka, the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Limburg, highlighted the project’s strategic impact, noting that the system has transformed production processes and contributed to strengthening Aperam’s market position.
According to the jury, the project demonstrates a high level of technological maturity and a structured approach to change management. The decision to develop the innovation in-house, with the involvement of relevant experts and partners, positions Aperam as a reference case for innovation within Limburg’s industrial sector.
Aperam’s innovation achievements are part of a broader strategic investment program. Between 2018 and 2024, the company invested more than €350 million at its Genk site to modernize production lines, improve safety, accelerate digitalization, and advance its green transformation. In 2025, Aperam finalized a new loan agreement backed by a guarantee of up to €120 million from Gigarant NV, enabling continued development and reinforcing Genk’s role as a cornerstone of Flemish manufacturing.
With this Innovation Award, Aperam reaffirms its commitment to technological excellence, sustainable production, and the long-term competitiveness of European industry.