EPIC AGM & SUMMIT 2026
Networking in the European photonics industry
Published on May 4, 2026
As a member of the European Photonics Industry Consortium (EPIC), we attended the EPIC AGM & SUMMIT 2026 in Juan-les-Pins, France, from April 28 to 30. We were delighted to be part of this important industry gathering.
The EPIC AGM & SUMMIT is regarded as the premier annual gathering of the european photonics industry and ranks among EPIC’s most important executive and networking events.
With approximately 300 participating CEOs and CTOs from 30 countries, the event brings together the European photonics community from industry, research, and technology development.
The in-person exchange at the highest professional level opened up new perspectives and provided strong impetus for future innovations and collaborations.
Intensive networking and high-level discussions
Networking was the focus of the summit. Over the course of three days, numerous presentations and informal discussion sessions provided the ideal setting for strengthening existing relationships and forging new partnerships.
Direct dialogue with other EPIC members once again highlighted the significant value of the EPIC network.
It is precisely this personal exchange that makes it possible to better understand market requirements, identify synergies, and explore opportunities for joint innovation.
Accompanying exhibition with practical insights
This year, the EPIC Summit was complemented by an exhibition where members had the opportunity to get to know one another and discover each other’s areas of expertise. We presented our innovative photonic solutions: proven applications that offer our customers clear and measurable added value.
Solutions presented included:
- ilumVISION – Laser modules with DOE technology for reliable industrial image processing
- FIBERPOINT – Visual Fault Locator for the precise localization of fiber breaks
- ilumCURE – UV curing solutions for medical technology, electronics, and device manufacturing
- Fiber optic components – such as highly stable connectors, pigtails, and custom assemblies
- VCSEL‑based laser diodes –Compact, efficient light sources for sensor technology and data communication
Our conclusion
The EPIC AGM & SUMMIT 2026 provided valuable guidance and helped to refine key areas of innovation and actively shape the strategic direction of the photonics industry for the coming years.
Published on 11/12/24
County Executive Dr. Ronny Raith, Chief Operating Officer Christian Pritzl, Teresa Sitzberger from the County Economic Development Office, and Mayor Daniel Graßl are excited about the planned site expansion.
Teisnach. Near the Teisnach Technology Campus, IMM Photonics has established itself as an innovative company renowned for its quality and technical precision. Recently, County Executive Dr. Ronny Raith, Teresa Sitzberger from the County Economic Development Office, and Mayor Daniel Graßl visited the production site to gain firsthand insight into the company.
After being provided with special protective clothing designed to guard against electrostatic discharge, Chief Operating Officer Christian Pritzl guided the guests through the production facility. During the tour, he explained the company’s various operational areas and introduced its product portfolio.
Since its founding in 1992, IMM Photonics has been synonymous with innovative and durable high-tech solutions “Made in Germany.” The family-run business, now led by Christian Raith in its second generation, develops laser and fiber optic components as well as optoelectronic systems. With its diverse product portfolio, IMM Photonics serves key industries such as industrial applications, medical technology, sensors, life sciences, and data communications.
Our county boasts tremendous potential, and the businesses located here can absolutely compete in quality with the world market leaders.
While development and sales are based in Unterschleißheim near Munich, manufacturing is centered at the Teisnach location. Across both sites, the company employs a total of 56 staff members—with further growth on the horizon. “In the future, we aim to provide in-house training in manufacturing and develop our talent directly within the company,” explained Pritzl. The apprenticeship program for “Industrial Mechanic with a Focus on Precision Instrument Manufacturing” is already in the planning stages in collaboration with the Chamber of Industry and Commerce (IHK). Among the 18 women working in production in Teisnach, many have been with the company for years, joining as career changers.
We have very low employee turnover.
The growing demand for specialized and innovative photonics solutions presents new challenges for IMM Photonics, including a lack of production and storage capacity. To meet this demand, an expansion of the Teisnach site is planned.
The planned extension to the existing building will be carried out by the landlord, OZB Teisnach GmbH. “Construction can begin as soon as the organizational prerequisites—such as leasing the upper floor of the planned expansion area—are met,” emphasized Mayor Daniel Graßl.
County Executive Dr. Raith expressed his gratitude during his visit for IMM Photonics’ commitment to the region and emphasized the company’s importance: “The decision to expand in Teisnach is a major asset for the region and strengthens local economic development.”