We had the privilege of hosting Dr. Maurizio Bragagni, Esquire, CEO of Tratos UK and a shareholder of Tratos Cavi, one of the largest cable manufacturers in Europe.
Moderator:
Dr. Bragagni, please tell us a little bit about yourself and share your insights on the cable industry.
Dr. Maurizio Bragagni OBE:
“Thank you for the kind introduction. We at Tratos are proud to be part of an industry that is fundamental to modern life. Tratos Cavi, as a group, has a long history of innovation and dedication to producing world-class cables that power essential infrastructure—from renewable energy projects to high-speed data transmission and the electrification of transportation.
On a personal level, I am a husband and a proud father of four daughters, which is a great joy and responsibility. Beyond my professional life, I have a deep passion for dogs and enjoy the openness and adventure that life has to offer. These personal aspects keep me grounded and inspire me in everything I do.
I have the honour of leading Tratos UK, where we focus on revitalizing the cable manufacturing industry in the UK. Our work is driven by a commitment to sustainability, safety, and innovation. We have launched initiatives like the Safer Structures Campaign to improve safety standards in construction and infrastructure and have championed the critical role cables play in enabling the green revolution.
Without cables, there is no energy transfer, renewable power, or digital connectivity. For instance, the submarine cable sector—vital for global communications and energy transmission—faces unprecedented challenges, including soaring demand, resource constraints, and geopolitical complexities. Addressing these challenges requires a collective effort from the entire industry, and we are at the forefront, driving innovation and change.
Ultimately, our work is not just about cables; it’s about connecting people, powering industries, and supporting a sustainable future. It’s a privilege to be posted to reinforce cables’ critical role in powering industries and everyday life.
Cables are the foundation of energy transfer; without them, the green revolution cannot happen. They are essential for renewable energy projects, from wind farms to solar plants and electric vehicle networks. The submarine cable sector, in particular, faces critical challenges, including rising demand, resource Constraints and geopolitical pressures on energy security. This sector requires urgent innovation and investment as it connects nations and underpins global data and power transmission.
We are deeply honoured that our collective efforts to restore the prominence of this vital industry have been recognised in this way. It is a testament to the dedication of everyone at Tratos who contributes daily to our mission.
Moderator:
Dr. Bragagni, you were appointed by the Queen as an Officer of the British Empire (OBE) and hold the title of Esquire. What led to this honour?
Dr. Maurizio Bragagni OBE:
This honour recognises the collective efforts of our team at Tratos to revitalise the cable manufacturing Industry in the UK. We have worked tirelessly to bring cable production back to the forefront of British manufacturing by investing in advanced manufacturing processes and highlighting the strategic importance of cables in modern infrastructure.
Through initiatives like the Safer Structures Campaign (https://www.saferstructures.org.uk), we aim to enhance safety standards across construction and infrastructure projects. Additionally, as advisors to the UK Department of International Trade, we have contributed to reinforcing the critical role cables play in powering industries and everyday life.
Cables are the foundation of energy transfer, and without them, the green revolution cannot happen. They are essential for renewable energy projects, from wind farms to solar plants and electric vehicle networks. The submarine cable sector, in particular, faces critical challenges, including rising demand, resource constraints, and geopolitical pressures on energy security. This sector requires urgent innovation and investment as it connects nations and underpins global data and power transmission.
We are deeply honoured that our collective efforts to restore the prominence of this vital industry have been recognised in this way. It is a testament to the dedication of everyone at Tratos who contributes to our mission every day.
Moderator:
Your leadership has undeniably shaped the success of the reeling cable and energy sectors, with Tratosflex ESDB being a standout innovation credited to you. Can you tell us more about your journey in the cable industry, the story behind Tratosflex ESDB, and how this innovation has impacted the sector globally?
Dr. Maurizio Bragagni OBE:
Thank you for the question. While I am honoured to have been part of the journey, this success was not mine alone. The development of Tratosflex ESDB was a collaborative effort involving exceptional partners like Dr. Notti former Siemens and Alfredo Gobbi former Teleco Palazzo Cavi, alongside our dedicated team at Tratos.
We began in 2002 with nothing more than an idea and a suitcase. At that time, the concept of reeling cables capable of handling high speeds and demanding environments was in its infancy. We embarked on a journey combining innovation, engineering excellence, and relentless determination. By 2008, we had developed what we believe is the strongest and most innovative reeling cable ever created—Tratosflex ESDB.
This cable was designed to address a common challenge in the sector: the twisting and internal wear during high-speed operations. Our engineers modified the internal structure of the cable, tightening it to prevent relative movement within. This solved the problem and allowed the cable to perform reliably in extreme conditions, from temperatures as low as -20ºC to as high as +60ºC.
The impact of Tratosflex ESDB has been far-reaching. It has been deployed in some of the world’s most advanced port infrastructures, including the London Gateway in the UK, Jebel Ali Port in Dubai, and Busan Port in Korea. For the London Gateway project, a major deep-sea container port development, Tratosflex ESDB was chosen because of its proven quality and performance in similar applications worldwide.
For us at Tratos, this innovation symbolises our commitment to creating sustainable, high-performance solutions that meet the demands of modern infrastructure. The success of Tratosflex ESDB also highlights how essential cables are—not just for energy transfer but for enabling global trade, communication, and sustainable development.
Moderator:
Dr Maurizio Bragagni OBE, we’ve witnessed a remarkable renaissance in the cable industry in recent years. What do you believe is driving this resurgence, and how is the industry adapting to meet the challenges and opportunities of today’s world?
Dr. Maurizio Bragagni OBE:
Certainly, the transformation of the cable industry over the last 25 years has been profound. Starting in the early 2000s, many companies adopted a strategy of offshoring production to countries like China, driven by the lure of cheap labour and lower manufacturing costs. This was a short-term solution to the cost reduction but had long-term consequences for the industry’s structure and stability.
At the same time, the industry experienced significant consolidation. For example, Prysmian has acquired several competitors over the years, including General Cable, Draka, and others. This wave of mergers and acquisitions has left Europe with only a few large, independent companies, including Tratos.
However, the dynamics began to shift in recent years due to several factors:
- Global Disruptions:
Events like the COVID-19 pandemic exposed vulnerabilities in global supply chains. Transportation costs skyrocketed, and delays became commonplace. The Suez Canal blockage further underscored the risks of relying on centralised, long-distance supply chains. - Geopolitical Pressures:
Rising tensions between major economies have led to increased customs duties and tariffs, particularly between the USA and China. These trade barriers have forced many businesses to rethink their supply chain strategies, favouring local or regional suppliers. - The Green Revolution:
The push toward achieving net-zero emissions has driven unprecedented demand for cables. Renewable energy projects—such as offshore wind farms, solar installations, and electric vehicle infrastructure—depend heavily on high-quality, specialised cables. - Reduced Industry Capacity:
The consolidation of the cable industry over the years has significantly reduced the number of producers. Many smaller or less adaptable companies didn’t survive. Today, those of us who remain independent and resilient, like Tratos, are uniquely positioned to meet the soaring demand.
As a result of these combined factors, the demand for cables has exploded while the supply capacity has been constrained. Companies like ours, which survived and adapted over the last 25 years, are now thriving because we invested in innovation, sustainability, and a localised approach to production when it mattered most.
This is not just about making money; it’s about contributing to critical infrastructure and the green transformation of our economies. We see this as a responsibility as much as an opportunity, and we’re proud to be playing a leading role in this renaissance of the cable industry
Moderator:
So, Dr. Bragagni, given the current success and demand in the cable industry, would you recommend someone start a cable company today?
Dr. Maurizio Bragagni OBE:
If I hadn’t been born into the cable industry, I would never have entered it. The barriers to entry are immense. The capital investment required is absurdly high, and the expertise needed is increasingly rare. Today, I am one of the few individuals with deep, comprehensive knowledge of the cable industry, particularly in cables for mobile reeling applications.
At 50 years old, I represent a generation of leaders who have spent decades mastering this field. This includes not just understanding the technical aspects of cables but also knowing how to build a business in specialized sectors like port infrastructure. It’s not just about having a great product; you need to know how to identify and secure orders, navigate complex industries, and establish a trusted reputation.
In the industry, everyone knows Dr. Maurizio Bragagni, Esquire—known as a tough guy, but one who is honest and integral. My word is my bond: if I say yes, it’s yes; if I say no, it’s no. But above all, I strive to be fair. You will never lose my respect if you deal with me fairly, but be unfair, and I will never work with you again. Moreover, losing my respect carries weight—everyone in the industry understands that if you lose my salute, it signals that you are a person to avoid. It simply means you’ve been dishonest, and dishonesty has no place in this business.
Reputation, in particular, is key. At Tratos, we’ve been building our reputation for excellence for decades—starting with the company’s founding in 1966 and continuing through the 25 years I’ve been part of it. That trust and recognition don’t happen overnight; they’re the result of relentless commitment to quality, innovation, and integrity.
So, while the industry might seem attractive due to the current demand, starting from scratch today would be an incredibly challenging and risky endeavour. It’s a field that rewards deep knowledge, long-term investment, and established credibility—things that can only be built over time
Moderator:
If you were an investment fund, would you consider the cable industry a viable sector to invest in?
Dr. Maurizio Bragagni OBE:
As I mentioned earlier, starting from scratch in the cable industry is something I would never recommend. The barriers to entry are simply too high. However, acquiring an established, prominent player in the sector? Absolutely, yes.
That said, let me be clear—Tratos is not for sale. We make too much money on our own to sell the golden goose. Our success comes from decades of investment, innovation, and building a reputation for excellence.
Still, if you’re considering investing in this sector, you must be cautious about who you buy. Smaller companies with revenues under 100 million often lack the benefits of scale and are typically family-run or operate as one-person bands. These companies often lack the structure and long-term resilience needed to succeed in a demanding and competitive market.
Instead, you should look for well-established, professionally managed companies with a proven track record of delivering high-quality products and services. While Tratos isn’t on the market, there are a few key players out there who can offer significant returns—but only if they align with the rigorous standards and integrity this industry demands.
Moderator:
Dr. Bragagni, there’s been a lot of discussion around the term ‘special cable.’ From your perspective, what defines a special cable? Is it simply about reduced cross-section and flexibility, or is there more to it? Please enlighten us.
Dr. Maurizio Bragagni OBE:
A cable, fundamentally, is a product designed and manufactured according to a standard. Standards ensure safety, reliability, and performance, which are essential in this industry. However, the idea of promoting patents on cables often amuses me because, at its core, a cable is standardized.
The concept of a ‘special cable,’ as some may call it, is more about its marketability and the ability to command a better price. But here’s the reality: all cables are based on standards. What differentiates a truly exceptional cable is not simply adherence to a standard but the expertise and experience behind it.
Take our Tratosflex cables, for example. They meet the same standards as any other cable but can operate at speeds of 240 meters per minute, which many others cannot achieve. Why? Not because of patents, but because at Tratos, we have the knowledge, expertise, and craftsmanship that others simply don’t possess. It’s not written in a standard, and it’s not protected by a patent—it’s built on decades of experience and a commitment to innovation.
This is why we place such high value on our people. Our team, many of whom have been with us for generations, is the backbone of our success. In fact, 95% of our employees who start with us stay with us. We have three generations of families working together at Tratos, and that shared experience is what allows us to create cables that not only meet standards but redefine them.
Cables are more than just wires and insulation—they are the result of a legacy of knowledge, passed down and continuously refined. That is why we are proud to lead the industry, not just in products but in the culture and expertise that drive true innovation.
Moderator:
Dr. Bragagni, what makes Tratos unique in an industry as competitive and technically demanding as cable manufacturing?
Dr. Maurizio Bragagni OBE:
What makes Tratos unique is not just the cables we produce but the values, knowledge, and commitment that drive everything we do.
First, our legacy and experience set us apart. Tratos was founded in 1966, and over the decades, we’ve built a wealth of expertise that cannot be replicated overnight. This is not just a business for us; it’s a craft and a passion passed down through generations.
Second, our people are our greatest strength. At Tratos, 95% of our employees who start with us stay with us. We have families who have worked with us for three generations, and that deep reservoir of experience and loyalty is something no machine or technology can replace. When you buy a Tratos cable, you’re not just buying a product—you’re buying decades of knowledge, skill, and dedication.
Third, innovation without shortcuts. While others may focus on patents or flashy marketing, we focus on understanding the deeper needs of our clients. For example, Tratosflex cables are known globally for their ability to perform at speeds of 240 meters per minute. This isn’t because of a single innovation or patent—it’s because we’ve spent decades mastering our craft, testing, and improving.
Fourth, our independence. Tratos is one of the few large, independent cable manufacturers left in Europe. This independence allows us to make long-term decisions based on quality and innovation rather than quarterly profits.
Fifth, our ethical code of honesty and integrity. At Tratos, we hold ourselves to the highest standards of fairness, transparency, and respect. Our reputation is built on this foundation, and we pride ourselves on honouring every commitment we make. If we say yes, it’s yes; if we say no, it’s no. We are fair in all our dealings, and we expect the same in return. Our unwavering commitment to integrity is why our clients and partners trust us. Once you lose our respect, you lose the opportunity to work with us—a testament to the value we place on honesty in every aspect of our business.
This dedication to ethics and integrity is not something we invented—it is something we learned from our president, Albano Bragagni. Since 1975, he has led by example, showing us the importance of honesty, fairness, and respect in every decision. When we joined the company in 2000, we committed to carrying on this tradition, ensuring that these values remain at the heart of everything we do.
Finally, our commitment to sustainability and community. We are deeply committed to producing environmentally friendly products, reducing waste, and supporting the communities we work in. Whether it’s through renewable energy projects or working to meet the UN’s sustainability goals, we believe in leaving a positive legacy for future generations.
In short, what makes Tratos unique is our combination of legacy, expertise, innovation, independence, values, and our unwavering ethical standards—built on a foundation laid by Albano Bragagni and carried forward with pride and purpose.
Moderator:
Dr. Bragagni, it has been an incredible privilege to speak with you today. Your insights into the cable industry, your leadership at Tratos, and your dedication to innovation and sustainability have truly highlighted why you are one of the few remaining protagonists in this vital sector.
As we’ve learned, the cable industry is not just about manufacturing—it’s about enabling progress, connecting the world, and driving the green revolution. Your knowledge and experience, combined with Tratos’ outstanding legacy, showcase the pivotal role you and your company play in shaping the future.
Thank you for sharing your journey and wisdom with us. This has been an invaluable opportunity to learn from one of the true leaders in the field, and I’m certain our audience will leave with a deeper appreciation for the complexity, challenges, and opportunities of the cable industry.
Dr. Maurizio Bragagni OBE:
Thank you!