Better Together: Co-Located Trade Shows for the manufacturing and engineering sector

23rd July 2021, Chester, UK : Rapid News Group, Messe Frankfurt and Nineteen Group are pleased to announce a 3-year partnership to collocate their UK manufacturing and engineering events.

The new collaboration will see Med-Tech innovation Expo, TCT 3Sixty, Automechanika Birmingham, Design Engineering Expo, Engineering Expo and Manufacturing Expo come together at the NEC Birmingham. The launch edition will take place for the first time from 8-9 June 2022.

Within this 3-year period all 6 events will take place alongside each other at the NEC in Birmingham creating a phenomenal offering for the manufacturing and engineering community from all vertical sectors. The partnership brings huge added value to attendees and exhibitors, with a visitor registering for one event gaining access across all shows, providing a united approach to encourage market innovation and trade.

Simon Albert, Managing Director at Messe Frankfurt UK who organise Automechanika the UK's leading trade exhibition for the automotive aftermarket and supply chain sector comments: We have an exciting new proposition for the UK automotive supply chain and this partnership strengthens this opportunity further. These events naturally complement each other and by working together we can deliver the strongest platform for our customers to do business. Collocating gives the market the best possible reason to take time out of their busy schedules to visit for the duration of the shows.”

Ed Tranter, Event Director at Nineteen Group and behind the launch of the Manufacturing Expo, Engineering Expo and Design Engineering Expo explains: “Collaboration and continuous improvement is at the heart of manufacturing & engineering and the Nineteen Group. We are thrilled to be working closely with other organisations at the forefront of the sector.

As companies begin their recovery from a year of disruption, there has never been a more important time for our industry to pull together to help promote and encourage innovation and see our sectors grow. The shows provide the perfect platform for connections between suppliers and buyers with conference programmes to give a clear roadmap for a successful future. Collocating these 6 shows is an exciting opportunity and ultimately provides more value to the communities we serve. We are stronger together.”

Duncan Wood, Chief Executive at Rapid News Group, organisers of TCT 3Sixty, the event for 3D printing and additive intelligence and Med-Tech Innovation Expo, the UK's leading medical device design and manufacturing technology event adds:

“The synergy between our group of shows delivers two clear benefits to the market and underpins the rationale for aligning our dates and access protocols. For the visitor the breadth of solutions under one roof at one time is unprecedented, time is precious, and these co-locations enable a prospective attendee to optimise their time out of the office. Equally the free flow of visitors across all the shows means that the return on investment for exhibitors is hugely enhanced versus each of us operating alone on different datelines. We are hugely excited to be working with a group of organisations who view the visitor experience and exhibitor ROI as importantly as we do, and we look forward to next June in anticipation.”

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TCT 3Sixty 2021 Launches Visitor Registration with Conference Programme & New Event Platform

TCT 3Sixty has today opened visitor registration for the 2021 edition of the event, complete with a programme of 50+ speakers, 70+ exhibitors, and the launch of a new event platform for attendees to manage their experience.

The CPD-certified programme will feature speakers from Boeing, Rolls-Royce, Jabil, NHS Trust, and more.

Duncan Wood, CEO, Rapid News Group said “We are confident that the new content streams built around evaluation, adoption and optimisation will empower visitors to optimise their time to great effect. In a post-COVID world, the outcomes of a visit are likely to be more important than ever before”

The CPD-certified conference programme, speaker line-up and exhibitor directory will be available to view exclusively within the event platform, to those who register for the event.

Each visitor will have a diary within the platform where they can manage recommendations, meeting requests, conference sessions, and more, allowing for a streamlined experience at the show.

This focus on digital also carries benefits for exhibitors; “Understanding which stage our visitors are at will also enable us to match exhibitors to visitors in a highly targeted way, delivering better outcomes for those who invest in the event.”

Rapid News Group made the decision to postpone the event, originally scheduled to take place in September 2020. The organisers have been working with the Association of Event Organisers and are closely following government regulation to ensure a positive experience for all attendees.

“2020 was set to be a fantastic show and we are looking forward to opening the doors and getting back to doing what we do best, creating an environment where our community can engage with great content and make connections.”

TCT 3Sixty will take place at the National Exhibition Centre (NEC), Birmingham, UK, from 28 – 30 September 2021.

Visit www.tct3sixty.com for more information about the event.

Med-Tech Innovation Expo 2021 Launches Visitor Registration with Conference Programme & New Event Platform

Med-Tech Innovation Expo has today opened visitor registration for the 2021 edition of the event, complete with a programme of 40+ speakers, 200+ exhibitors, and the launch of a new event platform for attendees to manage their experience.

The CPD-certified programme will feature speakers from Cleveland Clinic, Department for International Trade, Med-S2T, and more.

Darren Clark, Chief Executive of Medilink Midlands, commented: "Medilink UK has a well-established history and a great relationship with Med-Tech Innovation Expo and conference programme. It is a leading light and a pivotal innovation-driven expo for this diverse industry, that proudly takes place in the Midlands. It has been a hard and trying year, with an unprecedented amount of uncertainty and Medilink Midlands looks forward to supporting Med-Tech Innovation Expo in 2021 as the first of many opportunities for industry to come together once again in order to provide innovative solutions that will help the economic recovery".

The conference programme, speaker line-up and exhibitor directory will be visible exclusively within the event platform, to those who register for the event.

Each visitor will have a diary within the platform where they can manage recommendations, meeting requests, conference sessions, and more, allowing for a streamlined experience at the show.

Duncan Wood, CEO, Rapid News Group said "The medical technology sector and those who work within it have been at the forefront of our recovery. We are excited to showcase that ability and technology at Med-Tech Innovation Expo."

Rapid News Group made the decision to postpone the event, originally scheduled to take place in September 2020. The organisers have been working with the Association of Event Organisers and are closely following government regulation to ensure a positive experience for all attendees.

"2020 was set to be a fantastic show and we are looking forward to opening the doors and getting back to doing what we do best, creating an environment where our community can engage with great content and make connections."

Med-Tech Innovation Expo will take place at the National Exhibition Centre (NEC), Birmingham, UK, from 28 – 29 September 2021.

Register here.

New Dates for Interplas Announced as 28 – 30 September 2021

Rapid News Group has announced its decision to reschedule Interplas, the UK’s flagship event for the plastics industry, to 28 – 30 September 2021. The venue for the event, the NEC, Birmingham, UK remains unchanged.
 
The organisers have moved quickly to secure these new dates to enable the community to plan for the next period with confidence.
 
The rescheduling of the show reflects the highest regard Rapid News Group places on the health, safety and wellbeing of all attendees. In order to ensure the event is demonstrably safe and secure the UK and worldwide vaccine programmes must be given enough time to have their maximum effect.
 
A September dateline offers more time for this programme to take effect and offers a better route to achieving and exceeding the aims of delivering a substantial community gathering to facilitate learning, networking and deliver value for confirmed exhibitors.
 
Commenting, Duncan Wood, CEO of Rapid News Group, said:
 
“The latest information in the UK means the right thing to do is to reschedule the event to enable a further 13 weeks of vaccinations to take place ahead of the event. 
 
“On current deployment projections this has the potential to have a huge impact on attendee’s ability to visit and of course the subsequent ability for our community to come together for education, insight, networking and to do business. As an organiser we recognise these connections are what makes live events work and this adjustment means we can be sure of creating more of these connections for the community whilst safeguarding the health and wellbeing of all attendees.
 
“We are grateful to the NEC for working alongside us to identify a new dateline and I must also recognise the support of our key supporting associations and major exhibitors who have been steadfast in their support and wise in their counsel. This support is both valued and gives us renewed resolve to deliver the event the industry deserves when we get to September.” 
 
The UK’s leading plastics trade associations have praised Rapid News Group’s decision to reschedule Interplas.
 
Richard Hird, Chairman of the Polymer Machinery Manufacturers and Distributors Association (PMMDA), said:
 
"In the ever-changing world that we find ourselves in, we have all learned to be flexible in how we conduct ourselves and our businesses. In this regard the PMMDA applauds Rapid News for working closely with their partners and stake holders to arrive at the decision to defer the date of the Interplas exhibition to its traditional September dates and move forward to September 2021.
 
"With so many global exhibitions cancelled over the last 12 months, PMMDA and its members will look forward to meeting up with their customers and partners, within a safe environment, at the UK plastics industry’s showcase event in September 2021. We’ll also welcome our members to PMMDA’s 55th Annual General Meeting which will be held on the second day of the show."
 
Philip Law, Director General of the British Plastics Federation (BPF) said:
 
“Given the uncertainty with the ongoing pandemic, postponing Interplas makes sense, so that it takes place when more of the country are hopefully vaccinated and travel restrictions are far less likely.
 
“The British Plastics Federation is looking forward to contributing towards an excellent presentation of the UK plastics industry at Interplas in 2021, demonstrating to the market our many strengths as a sector.”
 
Visitors to the show in 2021 can look forward to a comprehensive conference programme delivered across multiple stages, with live stream feeds for a worldwide audience.
 
There will also be a host of interactive features, pavilions, content and networking events including a meetings programme and a new community platform that enables a credible digital complement for the physical event. This will offer even more ways to connect with the community both before and during the show.
 
Interplas 2021 will continue to be co-located with TCT 3Sixty, the event for 3D printing and additive intelligence, as well as Med-Tech Innovation Expo, the UK’s leading medical design and manufacturing technology event.
 
Interplas 2021 will take place from 28 – 30 September 2021 in Halls 4 and 3A of the National Exhibition Centre (NEC), Birmingham, UK.

New Dates for Med-Tech Innovation Expo Announced as 28 – 29 September 2021

Rapid News Group has announced its decision to reschedule Med-Tech Innovation Expo, the UK’s flagship event for the medical device industry, to 28 – 29 September 2021. The venue for the event, the NEC, Birmingham, UK remains unchanged.

The organisers have moved quickly to secure these new dates to enable the community to plan for the next period with confidence.

The rescheduling of the show reflects the highest regard Rapid News Group places on the health, safety and wellbeing of all attendees. In order to ensure the event is demonstrably safe and secure the UK and worldwide vaccine programmes must be given enough time to have their maximum effect.

A September dateline offers more time for this programme to take effect and offers a better route to achieving and exceeding the aims of delivering a substantial community gathering to facilitate learning, networking and deliver value for confirmed exhibitors.

Commenting, Duncan Wood, CEO of Rapid News Group, said:

“The latest information in the UK means the right thing to do is to reschedule the event to enable a further 13 weeks of vaccinations to take place ahead of the event.

On current deployment projections this has the potential to have a huge impact on attendee’s ability to visit and of course the subsequent ability for our community to come together for education, insight, networking and to do business. As an organiser we recognise these connections are what makes live events work and this adjustment means we can be sure of creating more of these connections for the community whilst safeguarding the health and wellbeing of all attendees.

“We are grateful to the NEC for working alongside us to identify a new dateline and I must also recognise the support of our key supporting associations and major exhibitors who have been steadfast in their support. This support gives us renewed resolve to deliver the event the industry deserves when we get to September.”

Visitors to the show in 2021 can look forward to a comprehensive conference programme delivered across multiple stages, with live stream feeds for a worldwide audience.

There will also be a host of interactive features, pavilions, content and networking events including a meetings programme and a new community platform that enables a credible digital complement for the physical event. This will offer even more ways to connect with the community both before and during the show.

Med-Tech Innovation Expo will be co-located alongside Rapid News Group's other highly successful industrial events: Interplas, the UK's no.1 plastics show; as well as TCT 3Sixty, the event for 3D printing and additive manufacturing intelligence.

Med-Tech Innovation Expo, 2021 will take place from 28 – 29 September 2021 in Hall 2 of the National Exhibition Centre (NEC), Birmingham, UK.

New Dates for TCT 3Sixty Announced as 28–30 September 2021

Rapid News Group has today announced its decision to reschedule TCT 3Sixty, the UK’s flagship event for 3D Printing & Additive Manufacturing Intelligence, to 28–30 September 2021. The venue for the event, the NEC, Birmingham, UK remains unchanged.

The organisers have moved quickly to secure these new dates to enable the community to plan for the next period with confidence.

The rescheduling of the show reflects the highest regard Rapid News Group places on the health, safety and wellbeing of all attendees. In order to ensure the event is demonstrably safe and secure the UK and worldwide vaccine programmes must be given enough time to have their maximum effect.

A September dateline offers more time for this programme to take effect and offers a better route to achieving and exceeding the aims of delivering a substantial community gathering to facilitate learning, networking and deliver value for confirmed exhibitors.

Commenting, Duncan Wood, CEO of Rapid News Group, said:
“I don’t believe anyone thought that our first reschedule would require an adjustment, but the latest information in the UK means the right thing to do is to reschedule the event to enable a further 13 weeks of vaccinations to take place ahead of the event.

“On current deployment projections this has the potential to have a huge impact on attendee’s ability to visit and of course the subsequent ability for our community to come together for education, insight, networking and to do business. As an organiser we recognise these connections are what makes live events work and this adjustment means we can be sure of creating more of these connections for the community whilst safeguarding the health and wellbeing of all attendees.

“We are grateful to the NEC for working alongside us to identify another new dateline which we believe will work for the great majority of our exhibitors and provide much-needed reassurance for visitors. Whilst we are disappointed that the re-imagined event will not now debut in June, we have been delighted with the continued steady stream of new exhibitors during this period and are confident the unexpected additional time we have to develop the event will result in a better experience for all involved.”

Visitors to the show in 2021 can look forward to a comprehensive conference programme delivered across multiple stages, with live stream feeds for a worldwide audience. Each stream offering innovative and interactive 360-degree insights into how to get the best from existing additive technology or how to invest and choose the most appropriate new 3D printing technology.

There will also be a host of interactive features, pavilions, content and networking events including a meetings programme and a new community platform that enables a credible digital complement for the physical event. This will offer even more ways to connect with the community both before and during the show.

TCT 3Sixty will be co-located alongside Rapid News Group's other highly successful industrial events: Interplas, the UK's no. 1 plastics show; as well as Med-Tech Innovation Expo, the UK’s leading medical design and manufacturing technology event.

TCT 3Sixty will take place from 28-30 September 2021 in Hall 3 of the National Exhibition Centre (NEC), Birmingham, UK.

TCT Asia hailed a success as Chinese manufacturing industry turns out in force for the sixth edition.

TCT Asia returned to Shanghai in early July for its sixth edition with 220 exhibitors and 8,469 professional visitors. Despite the challenges of COVID-19 and overseas travel restrictions, this year's total number of professional visitors increased by 2.12% compared to 2019. Underlying strong growth of 10% in domestic trade visitors signalled the continuing recovery of the Chinese manufacturing industry and a continuing high level of interest in additive manufacturing.

Now firmly established as China’s leading additive manufacturing and 3D printing event, TCT Asia closed the doors on its sixth edition to great feedback from exhibitors and visitors alike.

Over 8,000 visitors attended the exhibition and conference, which was one of the first post-lockdown exhibitions to take place and a sure sign that manufacturing is getting back to business.

A carefully regulated entry system and registration process ensured visitors and exhibitors alike felt safe and contributed to the vibrant business conducted across the show floor and in the conference sessions.
 
Zack Huang, President of TRUMPF (China) Laser Division, commented: “TRUMPF has participated in TCT Asia for four consecutive years and this year is very special. Due to the epidemic, the exhibition was postponed. But to my surprise, I still saw a lot of visitors and exhibitors on site. I think China’s manufacturing industry still has a good development prospect even in the case of the epidemic. At the same time, TRUMPF will continue to increase its investment in 3D printing in the Chinese market.”
 
“TCT Asia has always been the main platform for exchanges in the 3D printing industry,” said Cheng Jie, Vice President of Farsoon. “Farsoon has gained many potential customers and partners by participating in TCT Asia. Every year, we will communicate with many industrialised customers on-site. This strategic cooperation is conducive to the expansion of market share for both parties and mutual benefit and win-win results. All these exchanges and cooperation are inseparable from TCT Asia.”

Duncan Wood, Chairman of VNU Rapid News Co. Ltd remarked, “We are delighted that TCT Asia played its part early in the post-COVID-19 resurgence. It sends an important message to the wider exhibition industry and to the market that we serve. Understandably international participation was lower this year, but domestic attendance was up, and China has an ever-growing range of machine manufacturers emerging with world-class technology, which was all on show, cementing TCT Asia as the home of industrial additive manufacturing in China.
 
Wood continued, “Looking ahead to 2021 we will move to a new venue at the National Exhibition and Convention Centre with a new timeline, on 26-28th May. The dates give us sufficient distance from the 2019 edition and allow time for exhibitors to prepare their new technology and of course, by being later in the year we hope that travel is opening up and we can welcome back larger international participation for 2021."
 
TCT Asia 2021 will take place at the National Exhibition and Convention Centre, Shanghai, China, from 26-28th May 2021.
 
For more information visit www.tctasia.com.cn/en

Interplas postponed to 2021 with the promise of “bigger and better”

Rapid News Group has announced the decision to postpone Interplas, the UK’s flagship event for the plastics industry, to 2021.
 
Originally scheduled for 29 September – 01 October 2020, the event will now take place from 29 June – 01 July 2021.
 
The location of the event, at the NEC, Birmingham, UK, will not be affected by the change and the event will continue to take place in Halls 4 and 3A.
 
The decision to postpone the event comes as a result of the unprecedented times the plastics industry finds itself in as a result of the global Coronavirus pandemic.
 
The rescheduling of the show reflects the highest regard in which Rapid News Group places on the health, safety and wellbeing of its exhibitors and visitors and provides an appropriate solution to the uncertainties surrounding large events in the coming months.

Commenting, Duncan Wood, CEO of Rapid News Group, said:
 
“Clearly uncertainties around large gatherings and public events are still very much at the forefront of everyone’s minds. By rescheduling Interplas to 2021 we are first and foremost ensuring the safety of our exhibitors and attendees whilst also preserving the success of the event and the return on investment that holds such importance in the industry.
 
“We are also grateful to the NEC for working alongside us to identify a dateline which we believe will work for the great majority of our exhibitors and I must also recognise the support of our key associations who have been steadfast in their support.
 
“We will continue in earnest with our preparations for the show to ensure it returns in 2021 bigger and better and with renewed vigour as the market recovers from the challenges and difficulties presented by the current climate.”
 
The UK’s leading plastics trade associations have praised Rapid News Group’s decision to postpone Interplas to 2021.
 
Richard Hird, Chairman of the Polymer Machinery Manufacturers and Distributors Association (PMMDA), said:
 
“PMMDA welcomes the decision by Rapid News to postpone Interplas until June 2021, due to the extraordinary times that the Covid-19 pandemic has created. By doing so, we feel that it will ensure the best possible exhibition for all involved.
 
“We wish to thank Rapid News and the Interplas team for all their efforts in working with the NEC to ensure that Interplas remains in its ‘home’ halls, and look forward to continuing our close working relationship with them in order that we have an event that celebrates all the best that the UK plastics industry has to offer. We extend our continuing support and hope that everyone stays safe and well.”
 
Philip Law, Director General of the British Plastics Federation (BPF) said:
 
“Given unprecedented conditions this was inevitable and is consistent with the postponement of many other exhibitions globally. The industry needs time to recover and to consolidate its position.
 
“The British Plastics Federation is looking forward to contributing towards an excellent presentation of the UK plastics industry at Interplas in 2021 demonstrating to the market all our very considerable strengths as a sector.”
 
Visitors to the show in 2021 can look forward to a comprehensive conference programme delivered across three stages, each dedicated to enhancing a visit through the imparting of knowledge, insight and learning. 
 
There will also be a host of interactive features, pavilions and networking events including a meetings programme and learning seminars.
 
Interplas 2021 will continue to be co-located with TCT 3Sixty, the event for 3D printing and additive intelligence, as well as Med-Tech Innovation Expo, the UK’s leading medical design and manufacturing technology event. 
 
Interplas 2021 will take place from 29 June – 01 July in Halls 4 and 3A of the National Exhibition Centre (NEC), Birmingham, UK.

New Dates For Med-Tech Innovation Expo Announced As 29 – 30 June 2021

Rapid News Group has announced the decision to postpone Med-Tech Innovation Expo, the UK’s flagship event for the medical device industry to 2021.

Originally re-scheduled for 29 – 30 September 2020, the event will now take place from 29 – 30 June 2021. The venue for the event, the NEC, Birmingham, UK is unchanged.

The decision to postpone the event comes as a result of the unprecedented times the event industry finds itself in as a result of the global Coronavirus pandemic.

The rescheduling of the show reflects the highest regard Rapid News Group places on the health, safety, and wellbeing of its exhibitors and visitors. It also provides an appropriate solution to the uncertainties surrounding large events in the coming months. 

Commenting, Duncan Wood, CEO of Rapid News Group, said:
 
“Clearly uncertainties around large gatherings and public events are still very much at the forefront of everyone’s minds. By rescheduling Med-Tech Innovation Expo to 2021 we are first and foremost ensuring the safety of our exhibitors and attendees whilst also striving to preserve the success of the event and the return on investment that our exhibitors deserve. 
 
“We are grateful to the NEC for working alongside us to identify a dateline which we believe will work for the great majority of our exhibitors and I must also recognise the support of our key associations who have been steadfast in their support.
 
“We will continue in earnest with our preparations for the show to ensure it returns in 2021 bigger and better and with renewed vigour as the market recovers from the challenges and difficulties presented by the current climate.”

Visitors to the show in 2021 can look forward to a comprehensive conference programme delivered across three stages, each dedicated to enhancing a visit through the imparting of knowledge, insight and learning. 

There will also be a host of interactive features, pavilions and networking events including a meetings programme and learning seminars.

Med-Tech Innovation Expo will be co-located alongside Rapid News Group's other highly successful industrial events: Interplas, the UK's no.1 plastics show; and TCT 3Sixty, the UK's event for 3D Printing & Additive Intelligence. 

Med-Tech Innovation Expo 2021 will take place from 29 – 30 June 2021 in Hall 2 of the National Exhibition Centre (NEC), Birmingham, UK.

New Dates For TCT 3Sixty Announced As 29 June – 01 July 2021

Rapid News Group has today announced the decision to postpone TCT 3Sixty, the UK’s flagship event for 3D Printing & Additive Intelligence, to 2021.

Originally scheduled for 29 September – 01 October 2020, the event will now take place from 29 June – 01 July 2021. The venue for the event, the NEC, Birmingham, UK is unchanged.

The decision to postpone the event comes as a result of the unprecedented times the event industry finds itself in as a result of the global Coronavirus pandemic.

The rescheduling of the show reflects the highest regard Rapid News Group places on the health, safety and wellbeing of its exhibitors and visitors. It also provides an appropriate solution to the uncertainties surrounding large events in the coming months.

Commenting, Duncan Wood, CEO of Rapid News Group, said:

“Clearly uncertainties around large gatherings and public events are still very much at the forefront of everyone’s minds. By rescheduling TCT 3Sixty to 2021 we are first and foremost ensuring the safety of our exhibitors and attendees whilst also striving to preserve the success of the event and the return on investment that our exhibitors deserve.

“We are grateful to the NEC for working alongside us to identify a dateline which we believe will work for the great majority of our exhibitors and provide much-needed reassurance for visitors. Whilst we are disappointed that the re-imagined event will not now debut in September, we are confident the additional time we have to develop the event will result in a better experience for all involved.”

Visitors to the show in 2021 can look forward to a comprehensive conference programme delivered across multiple stages, each offering innovative and interactive 360-degree insights into how to get the best from existing additive technology or how to invest and choose the most appropriate new 3D printing technology. 

There will also be a host of interactive features, pavilions, content and networking events including a meetings programme and learning seminars that will provide tangible value to an attendee, providing a return on investment immediately.

TCT 3Sixty will be co-located alongside Rapid News Group's other highly successful industrial events: Interplas, the UK's no.1 plastics show; as well as Med-Tech Innovation Expo, the UK’s leading medical design and manufacturing technology event. 

TCT 3Sixty will take place from 29 June – 01 July in Hall 1 of the National Exhibition Centre (NEC), Birmingham, UK.

Presenting Packaging Europe’s new brand – Touchpoints!

Packaging Europe is excited to announce the launch of a brand new website and magazine - Touchpoints! We shine a spotlight on the industry from the perspective of design, smart packaging, e-commerce, personalisation and materials and delve deeper into hot topics in our comment section. 

On the backdrop of the digital media, e-commerce, and a proliferation of the virtual and physical touchpoints between brands and shoppers, there has never been a greater emphasis on the ability of packaging to engage with consumers.  

Touchpoints exists to deliver world class content that helps brand managers and marketeers transform consumer engagement, differentiate their products and forge valuable brand experiences through packaging. Readers can expect Touchpoints to provide clear-sighted analysis, authoritative reporting and new thinking from both established visionaries and unexpected places. We delve into the key challenges facing the brands and retailers today and we drive the debate on crucial issues – from store impact to unboxing, from the implications of digitisation to the impact of new and timeless materials, and how issues such as sustainability, social media and broader lifestyle changes are shaping brand engagement. 

Touchpoints strives to be as innovative and as engaging as the marketplace we talk about. We deliver our content not just on our website, but also in print and through newsletters, in video and audio media, through networking platforms and in live events such as drupa 2020. 

Touchpoints has been developed and is produced by the team behind Packaging Europe and is built on the same principles that have established its sister publication as the leading international media brand on packaging technology and sustainability: world class content, editorial integrity, and a tireless curiosity about the marketplace pressures and supply side innovations that will drive tomorrow’s industry. The team is currently working hard on putting together the first Touchpoints magazine, which is scheduled for publication in early April 2020.

Med-Tech Innovation Awards 2020 Finalists Announced!

We are extremely proud to announce the finalists of the Med-Tech Innovation Awards 2020.

As part of the Medilink UK Healthcare Business Awards these finalists represent the pinnacle of their profession. Congratulations to all entrants that have been shortlisted as finalists.

This year saw some fantastic, inspiring entries recognising areas of innovation, outstanding achievement and ground-breaking success across the life science and healthcare technology sectors over the last year.

3D PRINTING AWARD

Axial 3D - Axial 3D's surgical model service uses machine learning algorithms to aid in the conversion of patient scan data to 3D anatomical models, leading to reduced lead times. 

ExpHand Prosthetics - ExpHand have developed affordable, expandable, customisable 3D printed prosthetics for children aged 3 to 10, with adjustable universal sockets that can be fitted at home by parents.

FabRx Ltd - The M3dimaker 3D printer prints solid oral medicine, enabling personalised doses of medicine to meet specific health and therapeutic requirements in a single pill.

MedScan 3D - MedScan 3D offers a 3D printed anatomical surgical model service, which uses expert adaption to produce anatomically accurate silicone test simulators for medical devices.

University of Liverpool - A digital electronic imaging system has been developed to enhance the quality control of the EBAM additive manufacturing process, to improve the reliability in the manufacture of bespoke orthopaedic implants. 

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CONNECTED HEALTH AWARD

Ainostics Ltd - Ainostics has developed an AI analysis engine which uses multi-modal patient data (scans, patient records, wearable sensors, etc) to perform highly accurate diagnosis and prognosis for early dementia.

FeelTect - Tight Alright is a connected wearable device for measuring and monitoring sub-bandage pressure during compression therapy, reducing healing times and improving quality of life

Game Doctor - Game Doctor have developed a healthcare analytics and education platform using mobile gaming, to map and predict health behaviours in patients and the public

The London Ambulance Service NHS Trust - An online Point of Care Testing (POCT) service for the London Ambulance Service (LAS) enables en-route pathological testing with results available online for the destination hospital - reducing patient treatment time and improving clinical outcomes.

Nemaura Medical Inc - SugarBEAT is a non-invasive continuous glucose monitor and lifestyle app for diabetes, providing a personalised and progressive behaviour change app to manage and prevent type 2 diabetes.

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DESIGN AWARD

Nemera - Safe'n'spray is a smart drug delivery device, with a reusable child-resistant locking unit and fingerprint identifier, to monitor drug delivery and prevent overdosing.

Oxford VR - A virtual reality therapy platform with a computer-generated virtual coach for personalised treatment of phobias and mental health. Great success at clinical trial has led to adoption in four NHS trusts.

SleepAngel - This patented medical barrier bedding allows the bedding to breathe whilst being a 100% barrier to allergens and pathogens, reducing hospital-acquired infections and increasing sustainability in the hospital setting.

TheMoment - M-co is a non-invasive wearable device utilising pulsed cueing and focused vibrotactile stimulation to ease the symptoms of Parkinson's disease.

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ENGINEERING AWARD

Biovation Orthopaedic Solutions - An instrument kit used to perform cartilage replacement implant surgery, for big toe arthritis, has been redesigned to eliminate pre-operative lead-times, reduce manufacturing costs and lead times as well as allow for more accurate surgery.

Carclo Technical Plastics - Specialist in-tool process control and monitoring equipment has been introduced to the injection moulding process of a drug delivery device to improve quality control and reduce inspection costs.

Emerson - Emerson have developed a micro solenoid valve for use in portable oxygen concentrators, which is light and compact with a significantly higher flow rate than competitor valves, enhancing the quality of life of the user.

Freudenberg Medical - Helix iMC technology continuously measures the inner geometry of silicone tubes during the extrusion process, to improve product quality and productivity as well as reducing waste and time to market.

Marsden - The Patient Transfer Scale is a transfer board with an in-built weighing scale to enable immobile and time-critical patients to be weighed instantly and accurately to allow for precise administering of drug doses and treatment.

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MATERIALS INNOVATION AWARD

3M Medical Materials and Technologies - The 3M Extended Wear Medical Transfer Adhesives suite is a set of advanced solutions for stick-to-skin wearable devices which offer water resistance, breathability, elasticity and long wear times.

Paxxus - StreamOneR is an ultra-high barrier, hermetically sealable medical packaging solution designed for the number one polyester recycling stream, providing a higher performing and sustainable alternative to polypropylene medical packaging.

Spyras - Spyras have developed an affordable, disposable, paper-based wearable device for continuous real-time breathing analysis in hospitals. The device is designed to automatically alert clinicians of early signs of patient deterioration.

Stratasys - Specialist digital materials have been developed to allow the Stratasys Digital Anatomy Platform to replicate human anatomy which has the same biomechanical properties as native bone and tissue for realistic anatomical models.

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A NIGHT OF CELEBRATION!

The winners will be announced at the annual sell-out gala dinner on 1st April at The Hilton Birmingham Metropole. 

Hosted this year, by medically qualified, critically acclaimed international stand-up comedian, Paul Sinha, and with over 300 professionals from across the industry coming to celebrate with the winners, network with peers and share their pride in the industry - this truly is an industry highlight.

Click here to get your tickets.

TCT Japan is Thriving in a Growing 3D Printing Market!

TCT Japan, the most influential 3D Printing & Additive Manufacturing event in Japan, was held in Tokyo last week, welcoming a record 128 exhibitors from 9 countries.

The number of visitors across concurrent shows was also up by 10% reaching almost 48,000!

It was a fantastic show full of exciting product launches from a wealth of Japanese and international exhibitors, inspiring show features and engaging presentations from an array of world-leading speakers.

Alongside the vibrant show floor, the conference programme attracted unprecedented crowds with standing room only in many of the packed conference sessions. Visitors had the opportunity to listen to and learn from experts from across the world. With simultaneous interpretation, the learning, intelligence and networking on offer from the brightest minds ensures that TCT Japan delivers huge benefits.

Visitors explored the busy aisles and found more cutting-edge technologies and product innovations than ever before, giving attendees more reasons to visit the show, ultimately generating a larger footfall for all exhibitors.

Some of the highlights on the show floor included Toray Engineering, a local company, who used TCT Japan to launch its first additive machine; EOS with partner NTT Data who highlighted a series of automotive applications on one of the largest booths at the show; industrial gas company Taiyo Nippon Sanso who launched the Sapphire system in Japan; two companies with Japanese heritage, DMG Mori and Nikon, co-exhibited as a result of a business alliance agreed back in November; GE Additive’s technology was highlighted on Mitsubishi Corporation Technos’ stand where light weighted skateboard trucks were showcased; Markforged had its carbon fibre systems dotted around the show too; plus Stratasys, 3D Systems and EnvisionTEC all had representation.

Duncan Wood, CEO, Rapid News Publications Ltd. commented "We are delighted and encouraged by the second edition of TCT Japan, the country is starting to embrace 3D printing and additive manufacturing in ever increasing amounts and the quest for learning was clear for all to see. Some great presentations alongside a number of product firsts and a launch of Japanese edition of our own TCT Magazine ensures that we look ahead to 2021 alongside our partners with great anticipation."

We are already working on our next year's event with plenty of exciting enhancements in the works.

PVC 2020 and Interplas to co-host dedicated ‘Converters Day’ at upcoming events

The organisers of PVC 2020 and Interplas have announced a joint collaboration that will see a dedicated conference and learning session for PVC converters take place at both events this year.

Starting at PVC 2020 in Edinburgh on Tuesday, 21st April, a dedicated programme addressing topics including recycling, new product developments and process efficiency will be held as a separate session to the main conference, allowing converters to access materials and information important to their specific interests.

The one-day converters programme will be free-to-attend for the first 100 delegates to sign up to the Edinburgh event, with registration including access to the morning keynote sessions and the accompanying table top exhibition, giving attendees the chance to network, meet new contacts and learn with the industry.

Confirmed speakers include energy saving expert, Robin Kent; Recovinyl’s Regional Representative for the UK, Richard McKinlay, with more to be announced soon.

Following this initial programme, a follow-up event will be held at Interplas 2020, the UK’s leading trade event for the plastics industry, where a dedicated PVC converters session will be held on Wednesday, 30th September on the brand new ‘Extrusion Stage’.

This will also be free-to-attend and will give delegates bonus access to the entire Interplas show, which will host a number of related machinery exhibitors and suppliers after a surge in demand from these companies to participate at the event.

Commenting, Leanne Taylor, Head of Content for Interplas, said: “This is an exciting collaboration that will allow PVC converters to access a tailored programme at both of these key events in 2020. From recycling and sustainability to new opportunities for PVC as a material, these dedicated conferences will provide not only information, advice and learning, but also the chance to network with peers, meet new suppliers and make new contacts.”

Melanie Boyce, Head of Events at IOM3, added: “The Polymer Society’s PVC conference series prides itself on being the conference run by the PVC industry for the PVC industry, and we are delighted to partner with the Interplas team on this exciting new educational initiative”

To register for a free delegate place at the PVC2020 Converters Day, please contact Melanie Boyce on Melanie.Boyce@iom3.org or by calling 020 7451 7303.

To register for Interplas 2020, please contact Leanne Taylor on leanne.taylor@rapidnews.com or by calling 01244 680 222.

TCT Magazine Japan Edition

JTB Communication Design Co. (JCD), Rapid News Publications (RNP) and e.x.press Co. are pleased to announce the launch of the Japanese version of TCT Magazine. To celebrate this launch, we will distribute a limited edition of the first issue at TCT Japan held jointly by JCD and RNP at the Tokyo Big Sight from 29 – 31 January 2020.

TCT Magazine has developed for more than 25 years, with the aim of accelerating and optimizing manufacturing processes by applying 3D printing/AM technologies, to develop new products and technologies in all industries.

In February 2018, JCD and RNP announced the partnership alliance to organize TCT Japan, one of Japan's largest 3D printing and AM events.

The global AM market is expected to be worth 18,000,000,000* USD by 2021. To support the growth of the Japanese market, the organisers of TCT Japan, JTB Communication Design Co. and Rapid News Publications will be launching a limited edition issue of the new Japanese version of TCT Magazine through a e.x.press Co., Ltd.

Looking ahead, the 3 companies will collaborate to develop a digital version that will publish the latest 3D printing and AM-related news - in Japanese. The TCT Magazine Japan edition will establish a platform to enable real-world and digital interactive networking throughout the year and contribute to the growth of the domestic 3D printing and AM industries.

*(IDC Japan)

For further information or to register for your free ticket visit: www.tctjapan.jp

A Look Ahead at TCT Japan 2020! Doors Open Next Week

On 29th January, TCT Japan will open its doors to almost 50,000 visitors for Japan's leading event for 3D printing and additive intelligence, and will host more than 100 exhibitors on the show floor.

TCT Japan will showcase the latest additive manufacturing technology solutions and innovations from over 100 leading exhibitors from across the globe including Filament PM, Formlabs, Hitachi, JX Nippon Mining & Metals, Materialise, Mitsubushi, Multiphoton Optics, Nabertherm GmbH, nTopology, Sanyo Special Steel, Sindoh, Toshiba Machine and Trumpf.

Attending TCT Japan, you will be inspired and gain insights from the world-class conference held across two stages: TCT Conference and TCT Introducing Stage.

TCT Japan will raise the bar with its user-led conference which will bring together industry experts and trailblazers, guaranteeing to enthral the audience with fascinating talks and panel discussions on aerospace, automotive, rail, healthcare and business sectors. Here are just a few of the discussion topics:

• Advancing the State of AM Adoption: Impacts of Transformative Technologies and Standards Harmonization – Tim Shinbara, The Association for Manufacturing Technology

• The Role of Startups in the Additive Manufacturing Industry – Sangmin “Simon” Lee, AM Ventures

• Advanced Metal Powders for Additive Manufacturing - Cu・Ti・Ta・Nb - Shingo Funahashi, JX Nippon Mining & Metals Corporation

• Unleashing Additive Manufacturing Potential in Design of High-Temperature Applications: A Novel Multi-Physics Topology Optimization Approach – Sebastian Bersch, Siemens

With the rapid growth of 3D technologies across all industry sectors, it is becoming increasingly difficult to keep up with the recent innovations. TCT Introducing Stage will showcase inspiring talks, live debates, and interactive sessions on the latest additive manufacturing product developments and services across hardware, software, and ancillaries, led by TCT Japan’s most prominent exhibitors including Formlabs, Bruker Japan, GF Machining Solutions, Digital Metal, and many more.

“TCT Japan remains a firm favourite in the diaries of the international TCT team, not only for the opportunity to sample Japan's unique culture but because the event sheds light on one of the most interesting global markets for 3D printing and additive manufacturing.

In its second year as part of the TCT portfolio, TCT Japan will once again provide a platform for international companies to exhibit their latest hardware, software and materials developments while highlighting the innovative applications developed by Japanese users.

We are delighted to continue to build the fruitful partnership between Rapid News Publications and JTB Communication Design Ltd. with another high-profile and well attended event.”

James Woodcock,
VP Content, Strategy & Partnerships - Rapid News Group

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Exhibitor Highlights

TCT Japan will be used by many exhibitors to showcase new and exciting product launches to the Asian market. Here are just a few of the highlights to look out for:

Altech will exhibit Stratasys’ J850 platform in Japan for the very first time after its launch in October. The multi-colour, multi-platform is being targeted at designers who wish to streamline the design process and create greater detailed parts. Altech will also present the Stratasys F120, MakerBot Method X, plus solutions from Desktop Metal and Massivit. (Booth J04)

Digital Metal will showcase its DM P2500 binder jetting machine which is designed to support both prototyping and production. The system promises high productivity, thanks in large part to its ability to stack components with no support structures and less than 1mm between parts, as well as a changeover to the next job being possible in under 25 minutes. Nearly 100% of unused powder can also be recycled. (Booth M17)

After a flurry of new product introductions in 2019, TCT Japan visitors will see for the first time the Formlabs 3, 3B and 3L platforms, in addition to the Form 1, 1+ and 2 systems which will be on display in a heritage display area on the company’s booth. Formlabs’ Form 3 line of printers are powered by the company’s Low Force Stereolithography (LFS) technology, which works to reduce the forces exerted on parts during the print process in order to ensure improved surface quality. (Booth M10)

nTopology will debut its computational modelling software technology in Tokyo, having launched its nTop Platform in the spring of 2019. The company’s flagship product gives users the ability to work on design, simulation and advanced manufacturing processes simultaneously in a single workflow and promises to help engineers better optimise parts and do so more quickly. (Booth J19)

Mimaki will showcase its full-colour, UV-curable inkjet platform which can support more than 10 million shades. The 3DUJ-553 machine is able to support the needs of manufacturers, healthcare companies, construction outfits and educators. Mimaki will also present its 3DFF-222 desktop printer which it brought to market last year in partnership with Sindoh. (Booth H22)

Zortrax will be represented at TCT Japan by System Inn Nakagomi, who will showcase the M300 Dual platform for the first time. The M300 Dual is a double extrusion platform, upgraded from the M300 Plus, and now supporting water soluble support structures. Apium’ P220 platform will also be exhibited on this stand.

TCT Japan will be an engaging and exciting opportunity to explore emerging technology, discover new products and will optimise adoption.

TCT Japan will take place 29-31 January 2020, in South Hall 3 & 4, Tokyo Big Sight, Tokyo, Japan. 
For further information or to register for your free ticket visit: www.tctjapan.jp
 

Med-Tech Innovation Expo And Medilink UK Renew Partnership

Rapid Medtech Communications Ltd and Medilink UK are delighted to announce that they have renewed their cooperation agreement for Med-Tech Innovation Expo through until 2022.

Both organisations have collaborated successfully on the event since 2016, when Rapid took on the annual event. The future cooperation agreement covers a broad sweep of initiatives including marketing, conference production, show floor presence for both Medilink and its members, membership development and the production of the annual Medilink UK Healthcare Business Awards.

The depth of the partnership demonstrates that both organisations are committed to working together to ensure that the event remains the premier gathering for medtech, medical plastics, digital devices and pharmaceutical manufacturing technology businesses in the UK. The next edition will take place on 29-30 Septembr 2020 in Hall 2 of the NEC and is set to feature over 300 exhibitors and 5,000 attendees.

Darren Clark, Director Medilink Midlands, commented: “Medilink UK has a well-established history and a great relationship with Med-Tech Innovation Expo. This partnership is an echo of that relationship and I know that by working together, we can help to ensure that the Med-Tech Innovation Expo and conference programme is a leading light and a focal point for this diverse industry.”

Duncan Wood, Chief Executive of Rapid News Group, added: “We are delighted to renew our partnership with Darren and his team. We recognise and value Medilink UK’s position as a long-standing beacon of support for the UK industry. We look forward to continuing to work together on this wide reaching cooperation to raise awareness of the event and drive exciting content into it, whilst at the same time giving Medilink UK and its members a superb platform to grow and project its capability across the sector."

Med-Tech Innovation Expo will take place in Hall 2 at the NEC, Birmingham, UK from 29-30 September 2020.

For further information and to register visit www.med-techexpo.com

Registration is open for Med-Tech Innovation Expo 2020

Registration is now open for the 2020 edition ofMed-Tech Innovation Expo. This free-to-attend event offers a unique platform for visitors to meet with peers; designers, engineers, innovators and manufacturers from the medtech sector.

A key element at Med-Tech Innovation Expo every year is a wide range of presentations across three stages that will highlight the latest developments in medtech, medical plastics, digital healthtech and pharmaceutical manufacturing technologies.

The Med-Tech Innovation Conference, in association with Medilink UK, is the UK’s key annual summit for medical device OEMs. The CPD-certified programme will offer high-level thought leadership from the sector’s biggest names. Presentations on this stage, curated by Medilink UK, will explore regulatory and market access challenges and opportunities as well as future insights from policy makers and influencers. The Conference stage has played home in the past to leading figures from Boston Scientific, Roche Diagnostics, NHS England, Innovate UK, and the MHRA.

For 2020, the HealthTech Stage, sponsored by Hessen Trade & Invest (HTAI), will offer CPD-certified presentations and focus on finished medical devices from their conception, development, and commercialisation. Expert OEMs will also examine the R&D and clinical trial processes, regulatory hurdles, usability testing, and material compliance behind these products. Organisations presenting on this stage will include Plextek, Sanandco, Footfalls and Heartbeats, Heriot-Watt University, and Inovus Medical.

The Introducing Stage will also host a new feature for 2020.... PITCH @Med-Tech Innovation 2020, a start-up competition that is designed to bring together leading early-stage Medtech start-ups for a live, on-stage accelerator-style pitching session. Entries will be shortlisted and the top five start-up ideas, assessed by an independent panel of judges, will battle it out, at the show, to be crowned the winner of PITCH @Med-Tech Innovation 2020. Competitors will present in front of distinguished investor panels, influential media, and global partners for the prize of 12 months mentoring and investment from NIHR and partners.

Over 60% of the floor space has already been filled for 2020 by exhibitors, including Albis, Alicona, Bemis, Boddingtons, Carclo, Cogent, Connect-2-Cleanrooms, Datron, Delta Electronics, Indysoft, Lohmann, Maxon, Nelipak, Omron, Primasil, Qosina, Raumedic, Rochling, Schur Star, Shawpak, Steris, The West Group, Ultra Polymers, XL Precision and ZwickRoell. Many of these world class organisations are using the event to launch new products to the UK market.

Also new for 2020 is a purpose designed 1:1 meetings programme. Med-Tech Connect is a fully managed meetings programme that will enable exhibiting companies and sponsors to request scheduled meetings in advance and during the event in a dedicated meetings area.

Another great new feature will be a live, interactive cleanroom from Iso Pods Ltd on the show floor. Visitors will be able to enter the cleanroom and experience the simplicity the pre-qualified units have to offer.

“The 2020 edition will be our most engaging and useful event yet for attendees and exhibitors alike. A host of new floor features, great content, discussion panels, and amazing exhibits will be the catalyst for the UK medtech market to come together in April next year, showcasing the capability and opportunity that exists for the sector, we look forward to welcoming the entire industry to Birmingham.”

"Duncan Wood CEO -Rapid News Group

Med-Tech Innovation Expo will take place at the National Exhibition Centre (NEC), Birmingham, UK, from 1-2 April 2020.

For further information or to register for your free ticket visit: www.med-techexpo.com

Registration Open for TCT Conference @ Formnext

The Conference for Design-to-Manufacturing Innovation is back: 19th – 22nd November 2019!

In just 1 month, the doors will open to Formnext in Germany and with that brings TCT Conference @ Formnext.

Rapid News Publications, organisers of the TCT Conference @ Formnext 2019, are delighted to announce that tickets are now available to purchase for the four-day event.

This world-leading summit will deliver unparalleled insight from internationally recognised blue-chip organisations, industry experts, renowned academics and market analysts from Europe, the USA and Asia.

This vibrant and dynamic four-day programme consists of over sixty fascinating talks, case studies and panel sessions across two conference stages.

Sessions will cover the recent and future developments in AM across numerous verticals. Presentations will address current challenges that designers, engineers and executives may face when it comes to selecting materials, technologies and making business decisions as well as showing the potential of additive manufacturing in a diverse range of industries. 

As always, delegates can expect high-quality, expert talks from inspirational speakers who will share their knowledge and experience on how additive manufacturing (AM) and 3D printing is impacting the wider engineering and manufacturing industries.

This year's engaging presentations include talks from: 

• BMW: 'Additive Manufacturing in Industrial Production'

• Carbon and Specialized Bicycle Components: 'Cracking the Code: Digital Manufacturing at Scale

• Miele: '3D Printing at Miele'

• The Boston Consulting Group: 'Surviving Disruption in Additive Manufacturing - Choosing the “Best” Technology'

• Diehl Aviation: 'The Potential of Additive Manufacturing for the Aircraft Cabin'

• Bombardier: 'How the Rail Industry Can Benefit from Additive Manufacturing'

In addition to this, two further 'TCT Introducing @ Formnext' stages can be found in Hall 11.1 (F81), sponsored by LINK3D, and Hall 12 (B03), sponsored by HP. These stages are curated and operated by the TCT team and feature presentations on the latest and greatest the industry has to offer, direct from the exhibitors.

“As the global leader in delivering design-to-manufacturing intelligence TCT Group is the natural content partner for Formnext. We are delighted to deliver a truly world-class line up of speakers for the TCT Conference @ Formnext 2019, including some of the most ambitious and experienced users from across the length and breadth of the AM industry. Time out of the office and away from the shop-floor is always at a premium and I believe spending this time at TCT Conference @ Formnext will be a rewarding and enjoyable investment."

James Woodcock
VP Content, Strategy & Partnerships - Rapid News Group

TCT Conference @ Formnext runs from the 19th – 22nd November at Messe Frankfurt in Frankfurt, Germany. Anyone wanting to buy tickets or learn more about the conference and the speaker line up should visit www.tctconferenceformnext.com

TCT Show 2019 Closes to Great Acclaim

Another successful TCT Show! Yesterday saw the conclusion of a fantastic show, full of exciting product launches, inspiring show features, engaging presentations across four stages with an array of world-leading speakers plus over 250 cutting-edge exhibitors.

TCT Show is the leading UK event in the drive to increase awareness and adoption of additive manufacturing and 3D printing technology. This year's show has been a superb platform for inspiration and innovation supporting that drive. The show floor accommodated over 250 exhibitors showcasing a myriad of innovative applications.

Mark Tyrtania, Sales Director at Laser Lines said of the show"What's unique about TCT is that it's a focused 3D event. Really concentrating the market all in one place... We've been really busy on the stand, so lots of new leads and hopefully new customers."

"We've launched a couple of new products including the Xact Metal 3D printer that we hope is going to be a bit of a game changer in the metal space. TCT is a great platform to launch that program" he added.

Across the 3 days, this dynamic event connected attendees from around the globe, and it provided them with the opportunity to see an exciting and diverse range of businesses who were launching new products and services, including Ultimaker, Makerbot, 3D Systems, T3DMC, Matsuura, and Zortrax. This year's show had an incredible display of cutting-edge, design-to-manufacturing technologies on the show floor.

"I was here last year and found it fascinating, so I wanted to come back this year to see what's new. I've had some experience with 3d printers over the past year and want to see what developments are happening in the industry... The breadth of exhibitors from last year made me want to come back this year, and I haven't been disappointed!" said Chris Fall, Product Design Engineer at JC Moulding.

This year's TCT show had a number of exciting new features, including its new 1-2-1 meetings programme TCT Connect (sponsored this year by HP) which held 230 meetings across the 3 days in its own dedicated meetings lounge. Both visitors and exhibitors were able to use the service and identify contacts by sector and interest, and then schedule meetings with them.

Matt Forrester, Additive Manufacturing Manager at L'Oréal was invited to connect and commented "Awesome idea, spurring some great meetings. Thanks to the team!

Alongside the vibrant show floor, there was a full panoply of inspiring and intriguing conference sessions giving a first-class learning opportunity.

The TCT Summit Stage featured high profile keynote presentations including, Martin Stevens, Mechanical Engineering Manager at DB ESG (part of Deutsche Bahn) and James Brown, Data and Performance Engineer at Angel Trains, who explored how a recent additive manufacturing collaboration had resulted in the UK’s first AM solution for the rail industry, and the first in-service 3D printed parts on the UK’s railways.

Over on the TCT Tech Stage - we had captivating sessions from industry professionals such as Women in 3D Printing alongside Cyant hosting a #3DTalk on software. Plus a gorgeous dress that was entirely 3D printed by Modeclix. Incredibly, the dress can be altered to any shape and is recyclable.

"An inspirational and energising show that brought the entire additive manufacturing community together to share the latest knowledge and technology. There was a real buzz on the show floor with a broad range of applications represented from some of the industry's biggest names. An outstanding show." Jane Hughes, Group Marketing Manager at Rapid News Group.

TCT Awards
On 25th September, TCT held its third annual TCT Awards ceremony, at the National Conference Centre in Birmingham. Hosted by Georgie Barrat, a technology journalist and presenter of Channel 5’s The Gadget Show, the almost 250 guests celebrated into the early hours, after a night of well-deserved wins and commendations.15 competitive award categories, including the TCT Rising Star Award and the new TCT Women in 3D Printing Innovator Award, were presented. The TCT Group also inducted another industry giant of additive manufacturing into its distinguished TCT Hall of Fame; Gideon Levy - an early pioneer in the AM industry, with his contributions beginning in 1997 as the originator and head of the iRPD (Institute for Rapid Product Development). He is currently active at Technology Turn Around (TTA), consulting major players in industry education and research on AM.

See the full list of winners here > TCT Awards Winners

"We are already working on our 2020 event, which will have a new enhanced mission; a comprehensive 360-degree look at AM and 3D printing. It is set to be an exciting and engaging show providing real value to exhibitors and visitors alike.” Duncan Wood, CEO at Rapid News Group.

Join us in 2020!