In the immediate future, it is likely that new and interesting examples of C-C bond activation with main group metals will be discovered. Investigation of low-valent aluminium reagents appears to be a There is a clear need for development of main group catalysts for C-C bond functionalisation. The ability to alter hydrocarbon scaffolds of complex organic molecules and to valourise simple hydrocarbons or aromatics through catalysis are particularly attractive approaches that have long been associated with late transition metals. In the longer term, such catalytic transformations could underpin sustainable chemical manufacturing practices including the valourisation of molecules from biomass or the recycling of hydrocarbon-based polymers. The efforts described above show that main group systems have the potential to make important contributions in these areas that complement transition metal systems while also addressing key aspects of element scarcity, supply chain risk, and sustainability.