The composites industry has never lacked innovation.
Across materials, manufacturing, and applications, there is no shortage of capability. From advanced thermoplastics to automation and sustainability initiatives, the sector continues to push boundaries.
But leadership is not defined solely by innovation.
Moving Beyond Visibility
Too often, industry leadership is associated with visibility. Speaking at events, sponsoring platforms, and maintaining a presence. But visibility without contribution does not move the industry forward. Real leadership is demonstrated through action. It is seen in the organisations that actively support the industry, share knowledge, open up their networks, and create opportunities for others to grow.
A Need for Stronger Connection
Despite its global reach, the composites sector still operates in silos. Aerospace and automotive often tackle similar challenges but rarely collaborate at scale. Sustainability remains a shared priority, yet approaches to recycling and material reuse are fragmented. Breakthrough technologies continue to emerge, but many struggle to transition from development into widespread commercial adoption.
Industry initiatives, such as the European Composites Circular Alliance, are beginning to address these challenges, particularly in circularity and end-of-life solutions. However, broader cross-sector alignment and commercial integration are still needed to unlock real scale. The issue is not capability. It is connection. Too often, the right people are simply not in the same room.
Why ICS was Created
Gemma Hardy, Managing Director of Fluency and Founder of the International Composites Summit, created ICS to address this gap.
“I wanted to give something back to the industry. We didn’t have a strong, dedicated networking platform for composites in the UK that focused on real business connections.
“It was important to create something accessible, where education is open, conversations are meaningful, and people can genuinely connect. That’s where the energy comes from. That’s where growth happens.”
Demonstrating Leadership Through Action
ICS is designed to provide an environment where leadership is demonstrated, not claimed. It brings together stakeholders from across sectors and across the value chain, creating opportunities for:
- Meaningful business introductions.
- Cross-sector collaboration.
- Knowledge sharing that leads to application.
- Commercial opportunities that support growth.
“Leadership in composites is not about visibility. It is about contribution,” Hardy continues. “It is about showing up, supporting the industry, sharing knowledge, and opening up networks so others can grow alongside you.”
Companies that are serious about their role in the future of composites should now be considering how they engage, where they show up, and how they contribute to building a stronger, more connected industry.
ICS 2026 provides that opportunity.
--- End ---
For further information:
The Fluency Business Group
+44 1246 792003
info@fluency-group.com
The Fluency Business Group
+44 1246 792003
info@fluency-group.com
About the International Composites Summit (ICS):
The International Composites Summit (ICS) is a global platform for accelerating growth, investment, and innovation in advanced materials. Organised by Composites Connections, a platform of The Fluency Business Group Ltd, ICS brings together the full composites supply chain, from material innovators and start-ups to OEMs, Tier 1s, and investors.
With its UK-based flagship event and international Innovation Hubs, ICS is designed to create commercial impact, foster strategic connections, and support companies in scaling their technologies and global reach. Focused on high-value networking, investor engagement, and applied innovation, ICS is where the future of composites takes shape.