Plans for the 2021 edition of Formnext, to take place as a hybrid trade fair concept, have been met with a positive response from exhibitors, reports Formnext organiser Mesago Messe Frankfurt GmbH. As of the end of April, some 351 global companies have confirmed their attendance at the event, which will run in person from November 16–19, in Frankfurt, Germany, followed by the virtual Formnext Digital Days which will take place from November 30–December 1.

“After more than twelve very challenging months for the entire exhibition industry, the current development of Formnext is an extremely positive sign,” commented Sascha F Wenzler, vice president Formnext, Mesago Messe Frankfurt GmbH. “Although we do not yet expect an exhibition of the magnitude of 2019, we’re looking forward to a successful Formnext in which real-life personal encounters and face-to-face interaction are once again at the forefront.”

The organiser believes it is making significant progress in continuing the success of previous Formnext events which is being driven by the increasing pace of vaccination campaigns in many countries, including the US, UK, and Israel. It is also likely that Central Europe will have vaccinated a large proportion of the population by the end of summer at the latest. Alongside these developments, the highly-innovative AM industry is said to be very keen for its annual Formnext industry meeting to go ahead in Frankfurt.

Rainer Lotz, president EMEA, Renishaw and chairman of the Formnext exhibitor advisory board, stated, “We are seeing a great many new developments along the entire process chain with young and established companies alike looking for partners, customers, and, in some cases, investors. This is an area in which Formnext is extremely important. At the same time, the pandemic has prompted a rethinking of existing supply chains in some cases. Businesses preparing for restructuring can find suitable partners at Formnext and meet them here in person.”

Exhibitors already registered include almost all major players in the industry, as well as a wide range of innovative SMEs – including many new exhibitors from different countries. Drawing 56% of its attendees from outside of Germany, Formnext is building on the high international presence of exhibitors from previous years.

The organiser notes that the health and safety of all participants is another important focus of the Formnext team. In order to organise a safe and successful Formnext, the COVID-19 pandemic is being monitored closely to allow for the concept to be modified, if necessary.

“Personal encounters are a central part of our core business, and trade fairs are an indispensable driving force for the international economy, especially after times of crisis,” added Uwe Behm, Managing Director of Messe Frankfurt. “As the host of the Formnext exhibition in Frankfurt, we are implementing a thorough hygiene and protection concept to provide a safe setting for face-to-face meetings between you and your partners.”

Formnext’s revised concept also includes greater flexibility for cancellation conditions, customised terms and conditions, and the hybrid dimension that draws on experience from Formnext Connect 2020.

www.formnext.com