Post by SUpplyDU

You may already know him from CastForge, but now we are excited to introduce him again in our “Interviewing the Founders” series. In this interview, Kai Maier shares his perspective on SUpplyDU, details the feedback he has received so far and explains the role trust plays within the casting industry. We hope you enjoy getting to know Kai and discovering more about the people behind SUpplyDU.   a) What are you most proud of when it comes to SUpplyDU? What makes me most proud is the positive feedback I receive from across the industry—from buyers, foundries, and machining companies alike. Seeing the growing engagement on the platform and the increasing number of interactions confirms that we are addressing a real need in the market. From the beginning, my goal has been to create genuine value for companies looking for new business opportunities, as well as for buyers and engineers seeking new suppliers, technologies, and strategic partners. What makes SUpplyDU unique is the combination of a strong industry network, deep sector expertise, and the trust we have built over many years within the casting industry. It is incredibly rewarding to see meaningful business relationships develop through the platform. b) What do most people get wrong about SUpplyDU? Many people assume that SUpplyDU is simply a supplier directory or a search platform. In reality, it is much more than that. We actively bring new projects and business opportunities onto the platform, ensuring that companies are not only visible but are also connected with real business opportunities. Beyond the platform itself, I work closely with foundries as a technology expert, helping them solve complex technical challenges and support new product and process developments. My goal is to help companies achieve the next level of operational excellence, strengthen their innovation capabilities, and unlock new business opportunities. By combining technical expertise with an extensive international network of buyers, engineers, foundries, and machining companies, I help partners increase their market visibility, expand their reach, and connect with a broader audience of industry stakeholders. For me, SUpplyDU is not just about digital matchmaking—it's about creating real value and enabling sustainable growth across the global casting industry. c) Who is the target audience for SUpplyDU? SUpplyDU primarily serves buyers, engineers, and companies sourcing cast and machined components. On the supply side, we support foundries and machining companies worldwide by increasing their visibility, helping them acquire new customers, and enabling long-term business relationships. In addition, SUpplyDU provides value to process engineers, industry experts, and technology enthusiasts who want to stay informed about market trends, emerging technologies, and developments within the global casting industry.