As the date for W12 (October 7-10) draws closer the show’s two parallel events are taking shape and giving us an insight into the level of dynamism that exists in the industry. W12 Working with Wood is a well-established show – the largest technology and machinery show for the joinery and furniture manufacturing sectors in the UK. Each edition brings new and exciting developments from exhibitors across the spectrum. The ‘heavy hitters’ like Homag, Weinig and SCM will all be bringing new technologies to the event to cater for both volume producers and extending down to entry-level solutions.
We know from our discussions with visitors to past shows that they’re returning in 2012, looking for inventive ways to tweak their production so that through flexibility they can gain wider market opportunities, protect margins and differentiate their products. There is no better way to achieve this than through face-to-face contact.
Even at this stage we continue to have a steady interest from new exhibitors and, impressively in tough times, have signed up exhibitors increasing, even doubling, their stand space. This is due to companies like John Penny Woodworking introducing new technology. When we decided to launch the W12 Working with Design show alongside the machinery exhibition it was somewhat of an unknown quantity. We have established that visitors really wanted a materials and components show to link with their technology enquiries. The response has been more than encouraging, with some of Europe’s top manufacturers exhibiting along with various software solution providers.
We also decided to launch the inaugural Design in Manufacturing Awards for truly innovative design that will have a major influence on the final product – visually, technically or from an environmental aspect. Exciting entries have already been received and will be judged by four leading industry figures.
There is already no doubt that W12 will be an exciting and valuable event for everyone concerned and further details can be obtained on the W12 website – www.w12exhibition.com.
