Metstrade 2025 became a milestone event for ROCA Industry. Exhibiting time inside Swedish pavilion, together with the Sweboat organization and several other Swedish marine companies, we entered the show with excitement - and quickly discovered we had every reason to.
From the opening morning to the final closing hour, our booth at Metstrade was alive with visitors, partners, and future collaborators exploring our latest marine hardware innovations.
A stand filled with momentum
Traffic to our stand never slowed. Three new product highlights in particular sparked conversation:
- The upcoming W18 windshield wiper system
- The upcoming brushless W20 wiper motor
- Our newly introduced Blackline hinges
Visitors returned repeatedly with colleagues, often saying they “had to see this” after hearing about the innovations from others on the show floor.
The W20: Brushless, powerful, and built for tomorrow
Technical engineer Hampus Karlsson spent much of the fair introducing visitors to the upcoming W20, describing it as a major step forward for marine wiper technology. He explained that the brushless architecture allows full electronic control and eliminates the need for the linkage used in earlier systems.
As he demonstrated the prototype, he told visitors: “It will manage 20 newtonmeters - and the brushless motor means we can control it electronically.”
Hampus added that the sweeping motion is highly adaptable: the motor can be seamlessly be set to any sweep - from 0° till 360° (which is continuous rotation) depending on the vessel’s needs. He also highlighted a practical advantage that resonated with installers: “It can be used with both 12 and 24V in the same package.”
Weighing roughly 1300 grams, the W20 is noticeably lighter than the W12 system. The W20 can handle roughly double the amount of torque compared to the W12 in a smaller package. This is thanks to the new brushless motor. The system also pairs with slimmer, modern-style blades - “more rubber and less steel,” as Hampus put it - offering a sleeker appearance and improved performance.
The W18: Compact strength with a wider sweep
Another major draw was the upcoming W18, presented by technical engineer Klas Harlin. He explained that one of the system’s biggest achievements is its ability to sweep up to 180 degrees, adjustable down to 45 degrees for tighter installations.
Klas described the W18 as a logical complement to the popular W12: “We follow the same design philosophy as the W12 - but this is a more powerful version.”
With 18 Nm of output torque, this prototype supports blades and arms up to 700 mm, giving builders greater flexibility. Klas also pointed out that the team had refined the overall footprint, making the motor lower in height but longer for improved mounting options.
With 18 Nm of output torque, this prototype supports blades and arms up to 700 mm, giving builders greater flexibility. Klas also pointed out that the team had refined the overall footprint, making the motor lower in height but longer for improved mounting options.
The system meets IP65 standards, allowing exterior installation - something many visitors said was high on their wish list. The blend of strength, compact design, and flexibility made the W18 one of the most discussed wiper systems at this year’s show.
Blackline hinges: Sleek, modern, and on-trend
Our new Blackline series of black hinges also attracted steady attention.
Hampus explained that several of our most popular hinges now come in black versions, offering both a stylish and functional upgrade. Designers and boatbuilders repeatedly commented on how well the matte black finish pairs with contemporary marine interiors and exteriors. For many, the Blackline series became an unexpected but welcome highlight.
Partners who inspire us
Among the many visitors, several long-time partners shared their impressions of our stand and products. Their words reflect the trust and collaboration that continue to shape ROCA Industry’s work.
Derek Stern, Director of sourcing at Imtra Corporation (USA), praised the long-standing partnership:
“It’s based on quality products and trust… someone we can always count on.”
And Eric Braitmayer, President & CEO at the same company, added that “There’s lots of exciting stuff going on,” and said he was glad to explore the new products firsthand.
Anders Johan Abelquist, Purchaser at maritim.no/Hertmans (Norway), noted the consistent service: “We think ROCA is doing a great job. You have great products - and we always get good service from your staff!”
Such feedback motivates our team and underscores why we continue to invest in quality, innovation, and strong relationships.
Another surprise visit in our booth was the Swedish ambassador in the Netherlands - Julius Liljeström, who was impressed by our innovations and craftmanship. Thanks for visiting us, Julius!
A Sales Manager’s wrap-up with energy
Our Sales Manager Marine, Mikael Carlsson, captured the mood perfectly as the show progressed. He shared that we had held productive meetings with several major customers, including leading boatbuilders from Europe and overseas, as well as some of our most important distributors.
According to Mikael, the combination of high visitor numbers and a strong line-up of new products means “we are energised and have a lot of new opportunities to pursue when we get back home.”
Yet he emphasized that the team was far from tired: “We are still energetic for tomorrow - ready to meet new customers and show new products.” His words summed up the spirit of the week: busy, inspiring, and full of momentum.
See you at the next Metstrade
After three packed days of discussions, demonstrations, and new connections, one thing is clear: our participation in the Swedish pavilion was a genuine success. With new innovations launched, partnerships strengthened, and fresh opportunities ahead, we are already excited for what comes next.
Thank you to everyone who visited us. We’ll be back next time!
