Trade fairs provide hands-on inspiration
After two days, the AM Expo and Swiss Medtech Expo came to a successful close. 3,800 industry professionals visited more than 260 exhibitors to learn about innovations in additive manufacturing and medical technology. The two trade fairs provided a platform for exchange, knowledge transfer, and concrete solutions for the industry.
Over two days, more than 260 companies presented themselves at AM Expo and Swiss Medtech Expo – more than two years ago. The growing and diverse range of products and services not only attracted more trade visitors, but was also reflected in the quality of the discussions and contacts. Exhibition director Sara Bussmann is particularly pleased with the many positive responses: "The response was very encouraging. The high quality of visitors and their targeted interest in the topics show how important the two trade fairs are for the industry.“ This is confirmed by exhibitor Guido Roccinotti, Country Manager at Zehnder Clean Air Solutions: ”At Swiss Medtech Expo, we make important contacts that we would not otherwise be able to reach. Accordingly, the trade fair is very important for us."
The two trade fairs were also successful digitally: over 12,000 professionals visited the websites before and during the fair to find out about the exhibitors' latest products. Even after the fair, the websites remain important sources of information for the latest news on additive manufacturing and medical technology.
Specific applications for additive manufacturing
AM Expo demonstrated how 3D printing can be used economically as a series production technology. Numerous exhibitors presented solutions for production challenges, both with additive manufacturing and in combination with conventional manufacturing processes. For example, Unlimital showed how it develops additively manufactured cooling plates with flow-optimized geometry that lead to better cooling performance. “AM Expo was the ideal platform for us to present our solutions. We were able to talk to existing and new customers and arrange many follow-up appointments,” said Jonas Hirzel, Managing Director of Unlimital AG.
Orientation for the medtech industry
The Swiss Medtech Expo offered insights into the development and manufacture of medical technology. Topics such as smart manufacturing, innovative materials, and regulatory requirements were the focus of attention. “The variety of solutions was impressive. Experts received exciting input and new ideas for their daily work,” explains Sara Bussmann. The numerous networking opportunities, such as the Wine & Cheese Party, which were greatly appreciated, also contributed to this.
Knowledge transfer with practical relevance
Visitors had the opportunity to learn about current topics at two symposia. Fifty presentations and panel discussions highlighted developments and challenges in additive manufacturing and medical technology. The topics of artificial intelligence and sustainability were particularly popular. The presentations on additive manufacturing in medical technology were also well attended. The presentations and panel discussions were complemented by the new “Meet the Speakers” format. This gave visitors the opportunity to talk to the speakers after the program items. “With the symposia, we wanted not only to inform, but also to promote dialogue. The new format has further intensified this exchange,” summarizes Sara Bussmann.
The next AM Expo and Swiss Medtech Expo will take place from September 14 to 15, 2027.
