Alexander, at the beginning of 2024, IFE Material Handling announced the founding of “IFE Material Handling NA.” Where do you stand today, one year later?
Alexander Sattler: From the very beginning, the goal was clear — we didn’t just want to export, but to have a real local presence in the USA, Canada, and Mexico. And we’ve achieved that.
Because one year later we can see the results: we are managing projects directly in the market and are present at renowned trade fairs such as ReMA and WasteExpo. With a dedicated team — including Al Peña, Ferdinand Hager, Felipe Quezado (subcontractor), and, since 2025, myself — our customers have reliable local contacts at their disposal.
How do the requirements of North American customers differ from those in Europe?
Alexander Sattler: Whether in Europe or North America, in the end it’s all about a reliable and economical solution. The differences lie in the process. In North America, customers place great importance on quick decisions, clear communication, and personal accessibility. Many projects here are driven strongly by direct interaction and trust. In Europe, processes tend to be more formal, with trust building over a longer period.
Especially in recycling, we see a greater variety of materials and often less homogeneous material streams — from C&D waste to compost and bottom ash. This places high demands on separation technology. In addition, there are extreme climatic conditions, from –30 °C in Canada to +40 °C in Texas. Thanks to our experience in different markets, we are well prepared for this.
How does this close customer relationship show in practice?
Alexander Sattler: We have been working with many customers for years. One example is the plant in Calgary, where new orders have been added step by step since 2015 — from Flip-flop screens and overband separators to a dewatering screen. These long-term partnerships don’t happen by chance but through regular visits, quick feedback, and direct local contacts.
In fall 2025, the next expansion stage went into operation: two TRISOMAT screens arranged in parallel to separate finished compost from oversize material — under highly variable climatic conditions.
Many customers ask about standards. What is the situation regarding UL and CSA compliance?
Alexander Sattler: That has been an important topic for us from the start. Today, we can supply our machines — specifically their drives — in UL/CSA-compliant versions, from vibrating feeders and screening technology to magnetic separators.
Control systems, motors, and switch cabinets are also compliant or certified accordingly. This ensures that we meet the requirements of the North American market.
So let’s imagine the following situation: I operate a plant in the USA or Canada and am interested in an IFE machine. How does the process work?
Alexander Sattler: First, there is a personal discussion with me or one of my colleagues — either online or on site. Together, we clarify the requirements and general conditions.
In the event of an order, we handle engineering, manufacturing, quality assurance, and logistics. Even after that, we remain the point of contact — for commissioning, service, spare parts, and optimization.
And how does service and spare parts support work?
Alexander Sattler: For larger projects, we place spare parts directly at the customer’s site in a consignment stock. This ensures quick availability without the customer having to maintain their own inventory.
In addition, our team in North America is ready to provide immediate support when needed.
Finally, what are the next steps?
Alexander Sattler: In addition to ongoing customer visits, several trade fair appearances are also on the agenda.
From October 27 to 29, we will be present at the E-Scrap Conference in Texas. In spring 2026, we will take part in COMPOST2026 in Sacramento. These events offer valuable opportunities to engage directly with potential customers and strengthen existing relationships.
AL PENA
North American Sales Manager
Tel.: +1 905 228 2094
E-Mail: apena(at)ifematerialhandling.com
Web: https://ifematerialhandling.com
FERDINAND HAGER
Project Management - Sales
based in Austria
Tel.: +43 7442 515-252
E-Mail: ferdinand.hager(at)ife-bulk.com
Web: www.ife-bulk.com
ALEXANDER SATTLER
Project Management - Sales
based in Chicago
Tel.: +43 7442 515-252
E-Mail: alexander.sattler(at)ife-bulk.com
Web: https://ifematerialhandling.com