News

inter airport Europe is the leading International Exhibition for Airport Equipment, Technology, Design & Services. The 19th inter airport Europe will be held from 8 - 11 October 2013, at the Munich Trade Fair Centre in Germany. Some 600 exhibitors from 30 countries will present a comprehensive spectrum of the latest technologies and equipment across all areas of airport planning, design and operation. Solutions for aircraft, passenger and cargo handling; security; airport IT; architectural components as well as Ground Support Equipment will be on display.

Compared to the previous event, inter airport Europe 2013 has considerably grown in size, in particular in the outdoor area. Exhibiting companies who will present their large-scale equipment and vehicles in the outdoor area, have booked 20% more stand space for this year’s show. Some five months ahead of the event, the indoor area in halls B5 and B6 of the Munich Trade Fair Centre is almost fully booked.

The growth of this year’s inter airport Europe reflects the current positive outlook for the airport industry. This is due to an increase in passenger figures, mainly in emerging markets. However, the situation for the industry sector remains fragile with slow economic growth in many regions and the debt crisis in the Eurozone in particular. The global air freight market, for example, is currently weakening.

Against this background, the airport industry is facing challenges such as increasing energy costs, stricter environmental standards and the need to continuously adapt capacity to demand. Operational efficiency together with the improvement of the environmental impact of airports, are therefore key issues for airport designers and operators.

As a one stop shop for all aspects of airport planning, design and operation, inter airport Europe 2013 will present solutions to tackle the current challenges within the airport industry. With their new and improved equipment and technology, the exhibiting companies offer tangible solutions with a direct impact on fuel and carbon reduction and for a more flexible approach to managing passenger and freight capacity.

For industry professionals from airports, airlines, air cargo carriers and aviation-support the exhibition is an excellent opportunity to get an overview of trends and to source the latest products and services, ranging from electric or fuel-efficient GSE to new biometrics security systems. Designed to save cost and environmental resources, the equipment and systems on display can make an enormous contribution to increasing the revenues of airports of all sizes.

Information for visitors
A visitor leaflet including practical information such as an exhibitor list, the detailed exhibition profile, information on ticket prices, travel and accommodation is now available. The visitor brochure can be ordered via the show website at www.interairport.com/europe.

The monthly online newsletter ‘inter airport news’ informs its readers about the latest exhibition and industry news. The e-newsletter can be subscribed to for free via the exhibition website.

inter airport Europe 2013 will once again be held at the Munich Trade Fair Centre in Germany. The exhibition will cover halls B5 and B6 as well as an adjacent outdoor area. The exhibition centre is easily accessible via Munich’s excellent public transport system. For the duration of the exhibition, regular shuttle buses will run between Munich Airport and the show grounds.

inter airport Europe 2013  will be open from 8 – 10 October 2013, from 9.00 – 17.00hrs  and on 11 October, from 9.00 – 15.00hrs.

www.interairport.com/europe

Issued by:
Susanne Neuner, PR Director
inter airport Europe Press Office
Mack Brooks Exhibitions Ltd
Romeland House, Romeland Hill, St Albans, Herts AL3 4ET, United Kingdom  
Tel: +44 (0)1727 814400, Fax: +44 (0)1727 814401, E-Mail: press@interairport.com

A total of 8,202 rail industry professionals visited Railtex 2013 – an increase of 19% on the figure for 2011. Of these, around 63% were directors, senior managers and those with purchasing or decision-making responsibilities, highlighting the quality of attendees. And while the majority of visitors were from the UK, attendees from 49 countries accounted for 7.5% of the total visitor number, underlining the role that Railtex plays in highlighting the export capabilities of the country’s rail supply industry. Total attendance, including exhibitors’ personnel was 10,634, up 13% on 2011.

Held at Earls Court exhibition centre in London from 30 April to 2 May, this year’s show was the eleventh in a highly successful series of events providing a showcase for the latest rail industry products, systems and services. It was the biggest Railtex since 2007, with 434 organisations from 17 countries taking part, including 64 companies exhibiting at the event for the first time.  

Participants included many of the industry’s best known names, together with numerous highly specialised firms supplying essential products and services for all sectors of the market. The event was further strengthened by the support and presence of the Railway Industry Association, and by co-ordinated participation by both the Rail Alliance networking organisation and the Derby & Derbyshire Rail Forum.

A new feature of the exhibition was The Yard, an area dedicated to the display of larger items of plant and rail infrastructure construction and maintenance vehicles. Devised in collaboration with the Rail Plant Association, it included exhibits by Flotec, Keyline, Rail-Ability and Siemens. Also a key part of the show was the On Track Display, sponsored by Tata Steel and featuring its products as well as products from BCM Group, Rosehill Rail, Schneider Electric and Topcon.

Transport Minister opens show

Railtex 2013 was formally opened by Minister of State for Transport Simon Burns MP, who commented: "Industry needs trade shows because they bring together people, they spark new ideas and they help to build new working relationships. We need more opportunities to meet face to face - that's what makes events like Railtex particularly valuable."

The Minister was also a keynote speaker in a programme of well attended technical seminars hosted by The Rail Engineer magazine. Keynote speeches were additionally delivered by Professor Richard Parry-Jones CBE, Chairman of Network Rail, and Andrew Wolstenholme OBE, CEO of Crossrail.

Among other supporting activities at this year’s show was a programme of project updates covering major Network Rail schemes, the planned HS2 high-speed network and the IEP rolling stock programme, plus developments in the Baltic region and Hong Kong. And a new Railtex feature was The Platform, a programme of open panel discussions staged in partnership with the Rail Champions business development forum.

First Railtex Awards

Another successful innovation this year was the first Railtex Awards dinner. An informal and entertaining evening was the setting for a series of awards recognising significant achievements by exhibitors, with a panel of independent judges nominating these winners in 11 categories:

•    Newcomer to Railtex: Qinetiq
•    Innovation: Concrete Canvas Ltd
•    Health & Safety: Rail Safety Systems BV
•    Plant & Equipment: GGR Group
•    Judges’ Choice: Cox Wokingham Plastics
•    Rolling Stock: Bombardier
•    Rolling Stock Maintenance: Alstom  
•    Track & Infrastructure Products: Rail Safety Systems BV
•    Track & Infrastructure Maintenance: DBD Communications
•    Electrification: ABB Ltd
•    Station Facilities: Infotec

Positive feedback

Positive feedback received from exhibitors during Railtex underlines the value of the event to the industry.

Jo Doxey, UK Head of Marketing Communications at Alstom, said: “I think the advantage of having something like Railtex is that it just brings so many people together from so many organisations. It's just an opportunity to see how big the industry is.”

Paul Foulkes, Project Manager at Bombardier commented: “Railtex is the perfect opportunity for suppliers in the rail industry to exhibit their products. We're a global name and we are well known in the industry but it gives us the opportunity to connect with our customers face to face.”

And Chairman and CEO of Hitachi Rail Europe Alistair Dormer remarked: “I think Railtex is a very important show because it brings all of the various suppliers within the industry to not just show the wider market what we are up to – for us it's a great opportunity to meet all the other people involved in the industry, to make connections and really keep the business going.”

Laurie Waugh, Head of Communications at Siemens said: “For Siemens, we are such an integral part of the rail industry. So for us it's the ability to show exactly what we have in our portfolio and give a broader view of what Siemens is all about.”

Endorsement also came from Alastair Norman, Head of Asset Condition Monitoring at Telent. “We have an opportunity to network with both customers and with important suppliers. The depth of visitors and the opportunities that are uncovered here really add to our marketing efforts during the whole of the year,” he said.

And Dave Bennett, Business Manager at Topcon GB remarked: “The exhibition is a great place for rail industry professionals to come and network. It's a fantastic opportunity to showcase the innovations that we've got. We've just had a fantastic amount of business leads from the show.”

Summing up the success of Railtex 2013, Exhibition Manager Heidi Cotsworth said: “This positive feedback confirms that this was a very successful show and we thank everyone who contributed to it – exhibitors, visitors, speakers and participants in all our supporting events, as well as our show partners and supporting organisations. Our focus is now on next year’s Infrarail exhibition, which will bring us back to Earls Court. Planning for that is well under way and stand reservations are already coming in quickly.”

Infrarail 2014 will take place at Earls Court in London from 20 to 22 May 2014.

-ENDS-

For further press information on Railtex 2013 contact:

Ken Harris
Tel: +44 (0) 1273 300 434
Email: ken.harris@mackbrooks.co.uk

For general enquiries contact:

Heidi Cotsworth or Lisa Sinnott
Tel: +44 (0) 1727 814 400  
Fax: +44 (0) 1727 814 401
Email: railtex@mackbrooks.co.uk

www.railtex.co.uk

For its 8th edition, held from March 26 to 28, 2013 at Lille Grand Palais, SIFER – the only international rail-industry trade show organised in France – attracted 4,800 visitors (up 10% compared to 2011).

For the last 14 years, the 3-day biennial trade show has attracted professionals from across all sectors of the rail industry, from major industry contractors, equipment manufacturers and suppliers, to public-transport management authorities and operators.

This year, with the attendance of personalities such as Frédéric Cuvillier (France's Minister-Delegate for Transport), Guillaume Pepy (President of SNCF), Louis Nègre (President of FIF), and several other prominent figures in the rail industry (elected officials, company directors, etc.), whose presence confirmed the importance of the event, SIFER was elevated to a new dimension. As a forum for the exchange of ideas, SIFER has become the must-attend event for those seeking to understand the complex challenges of the rail industry.

Cooperation, French Know-How and Innovation were among the major features of the 8th edition.

The State reasserts its ambitions for the rail industry at SIFER 2013

At the inauguration ceremony, Mr. Frédéric Cuvillier, France's Minister-Delegate for Transport, spared no effort to reassure all stakeholders in the sector of the government's ambitions for developing the French railway industry. He also took the opportunity to meet personally with a number of industrial players, thereby gaining valuable insight into issues affecting the industry on a day-to-day basis.

Similarly, on the opening day of the trade show, Mr. Daniel Percheron, President of the Nord-Pas de Calais Regional Council, expressed his determination to promote the development of Nord-Pas de Calais as a region of rail-industry excellence, and to see it become "the Toulouse of the rail industry”.

As a leading international gathering of industry professionals, SIFER 2013 also provided a unique opportunity for a number of side events hosted by major players in French the rail industry.

SIFER: Showcase for rail-industry know-how

The Grands prix des Régions Awards ceremony, hosted by Ville, Rail & Transports
Grand Prix Gold Award: The Alsace Region. Alsace boasts the densest and most frequently used TER (regional train service) network in France.
Innovation Award: The Upper Normandy Region. Initiators of a project aimed at bringing together French industrial stakeholders in the field of electronic ticketing.
Intermodal Stations Award: The Alsace Region, for the conversion of the Bantzenheim stop into an intermodal station.
Traveler Service Award: The Alsace Region. Reopened the Mulhouse–Müllheim cross-border line to regional passenger traffic after 29 years of inactivity.
TER Road Service Award: The Rhône-Alpes Region. Has been actively developing its TER coach service for students.
Sustainable Mobility Award: The Picardy Region. As part of its drive to promote rail travel, the Picardy Region gave away 130 free one-month passes to non-TER users.
TER 2.0 Award: The Picardy Region, for the publication of a web site designed to promote concertation.
Communication Award: The Aquitaine Region. To mark the centenary of the Somport railway tun

The winners of the i-Trans Innovation Trophies Awards were:

Fluidmesh Networks, in the "Rolling Stock / Passenger Information" category.
Fluidmesh Networks was awarded the prize for its Fluidity system, which provides wireless internet connectivity throughout the entire duration of a rail trip, even at very high speeds.

Mersen France, in the "Infrastructure" category.
For a third-rail collector shoe allowing the transfer of electrical current between the third rail and the vehicle. Mersen designed a shoe in which only the part exposed to wear needs to be replaced.

Louis Nègre, President of FIF, Senator, and Mayor of Cagnes sur Mer:

"This 8th edition of SIFER clearly demonstrates the extent to which the event has become an integral part of the national and European railway landscape. The presence of the French Minister for Transport, Frédéric Cuvillier, at the inauguration ceremony, and his tour of several stands on the Thursday, attest to the priority the French government attaches to our industry. Moreover, all sectors of our rail industry were present, either as exhibitors or as participants in the various side events, such as the conference jointly hosted by FIF and Mack Brooks Exhibitions on the Future of the French Railway Industry. As such, industry stakeholders enjoyed a unique opportunity to exchange views on the major challenges that will need to be addressed over the coming decade, and on the strategies that must be implemented for us to remain a leading player in the global market, and to transform our industry into one that is united, sustainable and competitive. Consequently, more than ever before, the FIF and its members are intent on continuing their collaboration with the organisers of SIFER to provide a forum for companies in our industry, especially SMEs and VSEs, to promote themselves and showcase their know-how to major industry contractors.”

SIFER 2013: Key Figures

402 exhibitors (from 18 different countries; percentage of exhibitors from abroad: 24%), including Alstom, ABB France, Eiffage Rail, Schwihag… business clusters (Northern France Rail, Neopolia, Mipyrail, Mecateam Cluster…).

4,800 visitors (from 37 countries; percentage of visitors from abroad: 15%), including representatives from SNCF, Keolis, Bombardier, Siemens, RATP, and the Urban Communities of several of France's major cities.

www.sifer2013.com

Press contact
RP carrées
Benoît Renart
Tel.: +33(0)328 520 057
Email: benoit.renart@rp-carrees.com
www.rp-carrees.com

As new economic data confirms continued growth in Turkey’s manufacturing sector, Turkish fastener manufacturers have been very quick to commit to the first Fastener Fair Turkey, scheduled for November 2013 in Istanbul. The support has been so strong that the organisers have already expanded the space available to accommodate further exhibitors.

Within two months of its launch, Fastener Fair Turkey, which will be held 21-22 November 2013 at the IFM Istanbul Expo Centre, Istanbul, has already received reservations for most of the available stand space.

“Turkey’s important position at the crossroads of Europe, Asia and the Middle East together with its sustained economic growth, made Istanbul a natural location for a new edition of the globally recognised Fastener Fair,” said Exhibition Director, Olivia Griscelli. “What has really delighted us is the extremely rapid response from leading Turkish fastener suppliers in showing their confidence in Fastener Fair Turkey.”

Many Turkish fastener manufacturers and suppliers, including market- leading companies such as Norm Civata, Cetin Civata, Bolt Bağlantı Elemanları and Mitas Civata, have already reserved stands at Fastener Fair Turkey. They will be joined by well-known European fastener manufacturers and an already strong array of fastener manufacturing technology suppliers - including National Machinery, Carlo Salvi, Heroslam and WTG Phillips Screw Company.

Fastener Fair Turkey has also received the endorsement of Turkey’s fastener manufacturers’ association, BESIAD. Mr Mustafa Tecdelioğlu, President of BESIAD, commented: “It has long been BESIAD’s ambition to see a professional fastener industry exhibition organised in Turkey so we were very pleased when Mack Brooks Exhibitions announced it would bring the Fastener Fair to Istanbul.”

He continued, “Turkey’s economy has demonstrated its strength despite the challenges facing global markets. Its industry continues to grow confidently to meet both domestic demand and export requirements from markets in Europe, Asia and the Middle East.”

Fastener Fair Turkey will be staged in Hall 11 of the IFM Istanbul Expo Centre, located opposite the Istanbul International Airport and easily accessible by metro, bus or car. IFM has become one of the leading international trade fair centres with world-class facilities and modern, sophisticated infrastructure.

Fastener Fair Turkey is the latest in a series of specialist fastener and fixing technology exhibitions for important growth markets organised by Mack Brooks Exhibitions.

Additional information about Fastener Fair Turkey 2013 is available at the regularly updated show website: www.fastenerfairturkey.com

For further press information, please contact:
Susanne Neuner
Email: press@mackbrooks.co.uk

For Fastener Fair Turkey 2013 exhibiting and visiting enquiries please contact:
Gizem Erdem
Tel: +44 (0) 1727 814 400
Fax: +44 (0) 1727 814 401
Email: turkey@fastenerfair.com

BLECH India, the specialised sheet metal working exhibition for the Indian market, takes place for the third time from 17-20 April 2013 at the Bombay Exhibition Centre in Mumbai. 180 exhibitors from 14 countries worldwide present a large variety of new products and services for sheet metal working. With a 50% increase in exhibition space and 26% more exhibitors than the previous event in 2011, BLECH India 2013 is the biggest to date and expected to be yet another growing success.

The trade exhibition, organised by Inter-Ads – Brooks Exhibitions (India) Pvt. Ltd, encompasses all core sectors of sheet metal working technology including sheet metal, finished and semi-finished products, forming, separation and joining technology, machine elements, handling, surface treatment and tools/dies.

India is considered one of the world’s key growth markets for sheet metal working. In particular the automotive industry and its suppliers as well as the construction industry are a driving force for India’s continuously positive economic outlook in this industry sector.

The majority of the exhibitors at BLECH India 2013 are Indian companies; major exhibitor countries from outside India include Germany and Italy. For foreign exhibitors this trade exhibition is an opportunity to gain new contacts and develop their business relations in the buoyant Indian market. Furthermore, international partnerships have become essential in fostering technology transfer, opening unique opportunities for Indian and foreign companies in the sheet metal working business alike.

With its highly specialised exhibition profile, BLECH India 2013 targets trade visitors from industry sectors including mechanical engineering, sheet metal products, the automotive industry and its suppliers, iron and steel production, the household appliance industry, steel and aluminium construction, rolling mills as well as the ship building industry.

BLECH India will open from 17-20 April 2013, between 10am and 5pm each day. Admission is free for pre-registered visitors and on-site registrations. Registration can be completed online at www.blechindia.com. The website also includes further detailed information about BLECH India 2013.

Once again, Fastener Fair India, the dedicated exhibition for India’s fastener and fixing industry will be co-located to BLECH India 2013. Industry specialists in the field of joining technology will therefore be able to benefit from even more business contacts and sourcing opportunities at the exhibition.


Issued by: Susanne Neuner, PR Director
BLECH Events Press Office
Mack Brooks Exhibitions Ltd, Romeland House, Romeland Hill, St Albans, Herts AL3 4ET,
Tel: +44 (0)1727 814400; Fax: +44 (0)1727 814401; Email: press@mackbrooks.co.uk

Fastener Fair India 2013, the second edition of the specialised Exhibition for India’s Fastener and Fixing Industry opens its doors from 17-18 April 2013 at the Bombay Exhibition Centre in Mumbai. The show, organised by Inter-Ads – Brooks Exhibitions (India) Pvt. Ltd, builds on a successful first edition and benefits from India’s strong market growth in key sectors such as automotive and construction.

More than 130 exhibitors offer a comprehensive range of industrial fasteners and fixings, assembly and installation systems, storage and logistics services, fastener manufacturing technology and construction fixings. Alongside India and other Asian exhibitor countries, such as Taiwan and China, a large number of German and Italian companies exhibit at Fastener Fair India 2013.

The exhibition is targeted to all industry professionals in the fastener and fixings sector, including distributors, suppliers and engineers. Visitors at Fastener Fair India are fastener and fixings manufacturers, purchasers, engineers, end users and distributors. Key industry sectors to which the visitors belong are mechanical engineering, the automotive industry and its suppliers, electrical products and domestic appliances and hardware / DIY retailing.

Major fastener markets in India include automotive, rail, road, telecoms, energy, domestic appliances, home electronics, construction and petrochemicals. In addition to cars and other modes of personal transport, on a consumer level there is still considerable scope for growth in domestic appliances, home electronics and air conditioning units. Within this prosperous business environment Fastener Fair India 2013 is offering companies that specialise in the fastener and fixing industry a dedicated platform to exchange expertise, build networks and do business.

Fastener Fair India is part of the Fastener Fair series of trade exhibitions targeting the fastener and fixing industry in selected markets, with Fastener Fair Stuttgart in Germany being the international flagship event.

Fastener Fair India 2013 will open from 17-18 April 2013, between 10am and 5pm on both days. Admission is free for pre-registered visitors and on-site registration. Registration can be completed online at www.fastenerfair.com/mumbai. The website also includes further detailed information about Fastener Fair India 2013.

Fastener Fair India 2013 will again be co-located with BLECH India, Exhibition for Sheet Metal Working. The third edition of this highly successful trade fair will again present machines, tools and systems for the entire sheet metal manufacturing process, including joining technologies.


Issued by: Susanne Neuner, PR Director
Fastener Fair India Press Office
Mack Brooks Exhibitions Ltd, Romeland House, Romeland Hill, St Albans, Herts AL3 4ET,
Tel: +44 (0)1727 814400; Fax: +44 (0)1727 814401; Email: press@mackbrooks.co.uk

Infrarail 2014 will take place from 20 to 22 May next year at Earls Court in central London. This will be the 10th in a highly successful series of UK trade shows focusing specifically on railway infrastructure – providing a showcase for companies active in sectors that include track, signalling, electrification and structures such as bridges and stations, as well as the many technologies, products and services needed to maintain operational effectiveness and safety.

The exhibition will coincide with continuing high levels of government investment in the UK’s railway infrastructure, including headline projects like the £14.8 billion Crossrail line in London and the planned HS2 high-speed network. In addition to these developments there is significant expenditure on the existing network in response to continuing rises in passenger and freight traffic volumes.

Just over 4,500 managers, engineers and decision-makers visited the last Infrarail in Birmingham in May 2012. More than 200 companies took part in the exhibition, including many of the industry’s best known names. Visitor quality was confirmed by data showing that some 66% of registered visitors possessed purchasing authority, supporting feedback from exhibitors expressing their satisfaction with the show.

In addition to exhibitors’ stands, Infrarail 2014 will include dedicated display areas enabling companies to present specialised equipment and plant, while alongside the exhibition an extensive range of supporting activities will provide visitors with industry insights and networking opportunities. Programmes of free technical seminars and keynote presentations will run throughout the show and the third Infrarail Awards dinner will acknowledge exhibitors’ successes and achievements. More information on these features will be released as details are finalised.

Exhibition Manager Heidi Cotsworth comments: “With so much investment in UK rail infrastructure, some of it looking well ahead, business prospects for companies supplying this market appear very promising. This tenth Infrarail provides a great opportunity for firms seeking a share of that business to present their capabilities in an environment that the whole industry knows and respects.”

Infrarail 2014 is organised by Mack Brooks Exhibitions (www.mackbrooks.com), which also runs the highly regarded Railtex series of rail technology events in the UK. The company’s rail industry exhibitions also include SIFER in France, EXPO Ferroviaria in Italy and Exporail shows in Russia and – new in 2014 – also in Thailand.

Information on the exhibition can be found at www.infrarail.com

-ENDS-


For further press information on Infrarail 2014 contact:

Ken Harris
Tel: (+44) (0)1273 300 434  
Email: ken.harris@mackbrooks.co.uk

For general enquiries contact:

Heidi Cotsworth or Lisa Sinnott
Tel: (+44) (0)1727 814 400
Fax: (+44) (0)1727 814 401
Email: heidi.cotsworth@mackbrooks.co.uk / lisa.sinnott@mackbrooks.co.uk

Mack Brooks Exhibitions and the Ministry of Transport of Thailand (MOT) collaborate for a railway equipment, systems and services exhibition for South East Asia.

Mack Brooks Exhibitions has announced a new major railway exhibition for the South East Asian region. Exporail South East Asia – Thailand will take place at the Bangkok International Trade and Exhibition Centre (BITEC) from 12 to 14 March 2014.

The exhibition will act as a platform for South East Asia’s leading railway professionals to meet, network, discuss and further enhance the region’s railway networks and city metro systems. Singapore, Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur and Bangkok have all announced plans to boost their city metro and MRT systems over the next 15 years. These projects are in addition to the high speed rail network which will run from Kunming (China) through Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, Thailand (with a further branch to Myanmar), Malaysia and Singapore.  The total investment for the region’s network is in the hundreds of billions of US dollars.

The Ministry of Transport in Thailand has recently approved $52billion to upgrading its national rail infrastructure. This is in addition to $16billion investment in 6 new metro lines in Bangkok to be built by 2020.

Michael Wilton, Exhibition Director for Mack Brooks Exhibitions comments: “The South East Asian region is experiencing significant growth in terms of GDP as well as an increasing population. This has a knock-on effect on the capacities and capabilities of the current rail networks in the region. The whole region is investing significantly in improving and upgrading its networks on a city, national and international scale as a means of providing the infrastructure needed to support economic activity and the needs of its people.”

“Thailand is an obvious place to hold an exhibition to help the region meet these demands. Not only is it geographically significant, as Thailand, and Bangkok specifically will act as a hub, interchange and crossroads for the Kunming – Singapore – Myanmar high speed rail network, but Thailand also boasts the largest projects and plans as well as significant investment already in the development of its rail system.”

On the collaboration with the Thailand Ministry of Transport, Michael Wilton continued: “We have been working with the MOT in Thailand, at their invitation, for a number of months now, developing the best format for the exhibition with the objective of meeting the needs of the region’s networks. The show will act as a focus point for all nations and administrations working to improve rail connectivity in South East Asia.”

Exporail South East Asia – Thailand will feature leading railway equipment and systems suppliers to the region, covering rolling stock, signalling, infrastructure and communications, as well as government authorities.

Mack Brooks Exhibitions organise the world’s leading series of railway exhibitions; Railtex (UK), Infrarail (UK), Expo Ferroviaria (Italy), Exporail India, and Exporail Russia. Exporail South East Asia –Thailand is the latest edition to the list of widely acclaimed international rail exhibitions.

Stand space at the exhibition is now available. For space availability, as well as more details on the specific projects which are planned or underway in South East Asia, visit the show website – www.exporail-southeastasia.com

Ends –

For more details please contact:

Michael Wilton
Exhibition Director
+44(0)1727 814400
Michael.wilton@mackbrooks.co.uk
Thailand@exporail-southeastasia.com

Ken Harris
Press Officer
Ken.harris@mackbrooks.co.uk

The 3D Print Forum, a dedicated conference stream for 3D Print & Additive Manufacturing, has been launched and will take place at InPrint 2014, 8-10 April (www.inprintlive.com), in recognition of the growing role this exciting technology plays within the design and manufacturing process.

3D Printing utilises the same inkjet technology that has driven innovation in wide format printing and rapid prototyping is already being successfully deployed within many different manufacturing design departments around the world.

3D Printing assists the speed and production of innovation from design to production and, as such, is a compelling tool providing competitive advantage. Experts believe that the manufacturing process of the future will incorporate 3D printing within the production line, as opposed to it being deployed solely as a sophisticated prototyping solution.

As Professor Neil Hopkinson at University of Sheffield explains: “Additive Manufacturing/3D Printing is receiving a lot of interest with particular media attention on the lower cost systems that are appearing everywhere. However in the longer term I expect the higher cost, industrial systems, capable of displacing many of today’s industrial processes, will have the most profound impact on industry and society”.

The conference programme will feature speakers, experts, case studies of technology and innovation within the 3D printing sphere focusing upon 3D Print's integration into design and manufacturing.

'This exciting technology is grabbing the attention of the world, and with the recent launch of 4D Printing at the TED Conference in California in February, it makes sense for us to profile this rapidly growing area of technology and its awesome potential within the manufacturing sector to enrich the InPrint Show' concludes Marcus Timson, Co-Director, InPrint.

For exhibiting and press enquiries, please contact Marcus Timson +44 1372 370854 or email: marcus.timson@mackbrooks.com , www.inprintlive.com

The InPrint Show, which takes place 8-10 April 2014 in Hannover, has already sold 40% of exhibitor space, as companies demonstrate an eagerness to be part of this new event whilst gaining advantage of the special founder booking rates which expire in April 2013.

According to research consultancy, IT Strategies, industrial print has a market valuation of €80 Billion and with a CAGR for industrial inkjet of 11%, it is not surprising there is high interest for an event that connects innovative print technology with the manufacturing sector.

Industrial print is widely regarded as the next big opportunity for print technologies, as traditional print markets either level off, or contract further.

'There is no doubt that there is a high demand and enthusiasm for InPrint, a trade show that is focused upon showcasing innovation in industrial print technologies within the manufacturing process.' says Frazer Chesterman, Director, FM Brooks.

'And it is inspiring for us to receive such a superb reception for InPrint as it proves that print technology manufacturers want an event that opens up new markets in the manufacturing sector ' adds Marcus Timson, Co-Director, FM Brooks.

'What is also clear is there is no support for the concept of adding another event alongside a traditional graphic show as this will not attract a manufacturing audience’ Chesterman concludes
.
InPrint is uniquely co-located with the Hannover Messe which attracts a large attendance of manufacturing decision makers from across Germany and other key manufacturing centres such as Asia and South America, meaning InPrint is perfectly placed to succeed in bridging the gap between the print technology sector and industrial, manufacturing decision makers on a pan-European and international scale.

Exhibitors within the print technology sector have clearly indicated a strong level of support for niche events that open up new markets. As a process, inkjet has matured in graphic production and is now fully transferable into new applications in packaging, ceramics, glass, textile, interior design and decor as well as more functional applications such as printed electronics, medical and instrumentation production as well as proofing, prototyping and 3D Print innovation providing a spectacular array of new revenue opportunities.

InPrint has been developed over a period of the past 12 months with contributions from leaders and experts across the print spectrum and founder partners and ambassadors will be announced in April 2013.

IMI, the international inkjet conference and education provider and FM Brooks, organiser of InPrint, the Industrial Print Show, have confirmed an event partnership that will see both events benefiting from additional content, insight and value.

Since 1991, IMI has run highly successful events focused upon inkjet innovation in Europe and the USA.

'IMI has been a leading community for the development of inkjet since the beginning of the technology, so it is natural development for us to form a partnership with the InPrint Show to create value for both of our communities. The industrial sector represents the next evolution for inkjet and I look forward to this partnership further enhancing the adoption of inkjet technology within industrial processes at InPrint 2014' Says Mike Willis, Director, IMI.

The event partnership includes joint activities at InPrint and IMI Conferences throughout 2013 and in the run up to InPrint 2014.  InPrint will be running their ‘LIME’ seminar at the IMI Europe Ink Jet Technology Showcase 2013 in Barcelona, Spain June 5-6.

Frazer Chesterman explains 'We are delighted by this event partnership as we regard the IMI events as first rate. Through knowledge sharing and co-creation of content such as IMI's Tech Talks at InPrint, we are confident our partnership will have tremendous value for both IMI and InPrint stakeholders. The fact we have in place such a credible partnership is a clear signal that InPrint is already developing into a must attend event for the industrial print sector'.

InPrint 2014 continues to build on strong progress with exhibitor sales with the founder partners and exhibitors to be announced in April 2013.

About IMI Europe

IMI Europe is the front runner in educating and advancing the ink jet industry, particularly during the major growth phase of industrial applications occurring since 2000. They organise conferences and courses, mainly about ink jet technology, with a focus upon the development and commercialisation of technology, attracting the leading component suppliers, integrators, OEMs and key end users to the best value networking events in the industry.  The next major events are the Ink Jet Summer School and Ink Jet Technology Showcase in Barcelona, Spain in early June.

The 8th International Converting Exhibition, ICE Europe 2013, closed its doors today after three successful show days full of business activity, live demonstrations, expert talks and networking. With another 16% increase in visitor attendance compared to the previous show, ICE Europe 2013 was the biggest International Converting Exhibition ever: A total of 6,600 visitors from 64 countries came to Munich to find out about the latest products and systems for the conversion of web-based materials, such as paper, film, foil and nonwovens.

“These are of course very positive results; we are particularly delighted to be able to report that ICE Europe has made another step forward as the leading international trade fair for the worldwide converting industry,” says Nicola Hamann, Exhibition Director ICE Europe, on behalf of the organisers, Mack Brooks Exhibitions. “Many exhibitors had presented themselves this year with even more impressive stands. They showcased an enormous variety of new products and innovative solutions, and made this exhibition a magnet for converting specialists from all over the world,” says Nicola Hamann.

A total of 401 exhibitors from 19 countries covered a net exhibition space of 10,100m2, with 41% of the exhibitors coming from outside Germany. The biggest exhibitor countries after Germany were Great Britain, Italy, the USA, Switzerland and France.

The percentage of international visitors at this year’s show was once again very high. Similar to the previous ICE Europe, 44% of all visitors came from outside Germany, with Italy, Austria, France, Switzerland, Great Britain, Poland, Spain, the Netherlands, Czech Republic and Turkey being major visitor countries.

The first visitor analysis showed only marginal variations as regards industry sectors that visitors came from. The majority of visitors belonged to the packaging industry (33%), followed by engineering (21%), the paper industry (20%), package printing (18%), the chemical industry (15%), textiles and nonwovens (13%), the automotive (10%) and the electronics industry (7%).

When asked about their main areas of interest at the exhibition, visitors stated coating/laminating (54%), slitting/rewinding (51%), flexographic/rotogravure printing (29%), accessories (29%), materials (28%), control, test and measurement (26%), finishing (24%), toll coating/converting/slitting (21%) and drying/curing (19%).   
A first analysis of the exhibitor survey shows that a vast majority of the participating companies were highly satisfied with the results of the exhibition. They praised the high quality of trade visitors and reported large numbers of business contacts.

The co-location of the new trade fair CCE International, Exhibition for the Corrugated and Folding Carton Industry, was well received by ICE exhibitors and visitors alike. This exhibition launch was thoroughly successful and attracted some 2,000 trade visitors which are not included in the total visitor number for ICE Europe 2013.  

Most of this year’s exhibitors had already indicated on-site that they intended to exhibit again at the next exhibition. ICE Europe 2015 will take place from 24-26 March 2015 at the Munich Trade Fair Centre.

The next exhibition in the ICE series of dedicated trade events for the converting industry will be ICE USA, held from 9 – 11 April 2013 in Orlando, Florida. Next year, Mack Brooks Exhibitions will organise ICE Asia, from 17-19 September 2014 in Shanghai Mart, China.

www.ice-x.com

ENDS

Issued by: Susanne Neuner, PR Director
ICE International Press Office, Mack Brooks Exhibitions
Romeland House, Romeland Hill, St Albans, Herts AL3 4ET, United Kingdom
Tel: +44 (0)1727 814400, Fax: +44 (0)1727 814401, E-Mail: press@mackbrooks.co.uk                   

The launch of Europe’s only dedicated Exhibition for the Corrugated and Folding Carton Industry, CCE International, exceeded all expectations. A total of 2,040 visitors from 65 countries came to Munich over the past three days to discover a comprehensive range of machines, accessories and services for the production and conversion of corrugated and folding carton. With 110 exhibitors from 15 countries covering a net exhibition space of 3,300 m2, the show made an impressive debut.

A key feature of CCE International 2013 was the remarkably high international attendance, where both exhibitors and visitors were concerned. Almost 70% of the visitors and 80% of the exhibitors were from outside Germany. Major exhibitor countries were Italy, Germany, Great Britain, the USA, France, the Netherlands and China. As for the visitors, Germany was the biggest visitor country, followed by Italy, Great Britain, Spain, Russia, Poland, Turkey, France, Austria, the Netherlands, Egypt and Ukraine.

The first analysis of the visitor survey shows that the majority of visitors came from corrugated board plants and sheet plants (56%). Others were folding carton converters (30%), packaging designers (17%), corrugated sheet feeders (15%) and rigid carton manufacturers (10%). The most important industrial sectors that visitors belonged to were food and beverage, transport and logistics, furniture, cosmetics, electrical appliances and electronics, pharmaceuticals and tobacco.

When asked about their main areas of interest at the exhibition, visitors stated corrugated converting equipment (47%), corrugated lines (41%), printing equipment (40%), folding carton converting equipment (28%), raw materials (26%), machine and plant control (25%) and materials handling (21%).

“The general atmosphere at CCE International 2013 was very positive. Everyone seemed to be very happy with the outcome of this exhibition launch, and many exhibitors told us that the results of this event have exceeded all their expectations. They were particularly impressed with the highly specialised international trade audience who attended the show. We want to congratulate our exhibitors and visitors for this great success,” says Nicola Hamann, Exhibition Director CCE International, on behalf of the organisers, Mack Brooks Exhibitions.

Exhibitor feedback shows that most of this year’s exhibitors are already planning their participation at the next CCE International, Exhibition for the Corrugated and Folding Carton Industry, which is set to take place from 24 – 26 March 2015 at Messe München, Munich, Germany.


Issued by: Susanne Neuner, PR Director
CCE International Press Office
Mack Brooks Exhibitions Ltd
Romeland House, Romeland Hill, St Albans, Herts AL3 4ET, United Kingdom
Tel: +44 (0)1727 814 400, Fax: +44 (0)1727 814 401
Email: press@mackbrooks.co.uk

Playing a key supporting role as Official Track Sponsor at Railtex 2013 will be leading track products manufacturer Tata Steel. The company is providing and installing sections of track in the exhibition hall to form the basis of the popular feature known as The Track. This provides exhibitors of rail-mounted equipment with a unique opportunity to display their products in an authentic railway setting. Companies exhibiting on The Track this year are cable trough systems suppliers BCM GRC, Rosehill Rail with its innovative anti-trespass panels, cable management specialist Schneider Electric and track measurement systems manufacturer Topcon.

As well as being part of The Track display, Tata Steel will also be present on Stand H123 at Railtex, showcasing its premium range of main line and urban rail products designed to combat wear, rolling contact fatigue, corrosion and noise pollution, responding to its customers’ requirements for lower life-cycle costs.

Among products being promoted will be:

- HPrail®, its new patented rail steel offering improved wear and rolling contact fatigue resistance to enhance life and reduce grinding frequency.

- High performance grooved rail, its new urban rail steel, which offers increased wear resistance and is weld-repairable for multiple lives.

- 108m ‘stress-free’ heat treat rail, available from October 2013. Tata Steel’s exceptionally low residual stress rail, which minimises the risk of foot fatigue and provides excellent wear-resistance, will soon be available in long lengths.

- Railcote®, a robust rail coating offering superior protection against corrosion and longer life compared to other forms of corrosion protection.

- SilentTrack®, Tata Steel’s tuned rail damper system, which addresses noise legislation by delivering a 3-7dB improvement.

- Modular and offsite construction, using modular structures to provide shorter construction times, better sustainability, greater site efficiency and improved health and safety.

Tata Steel will also highlight its associated services. These range from consultancy, design and engineering to manufacture, installation and onsite project management. It works in partnership with its customers and specially selected partners to deliver high quality, innovative and responsive solutions to meet individual requirements. THJV, its joint venture with Halcrow, is part of Network Rail’s Professional Services Support Framework, aiding the early development stages of investment and renewal projects.

The company’s contribution to the Railtex seminar programme will take place on Thursday 2 May, when Tata Steel Product Marketing Managers David Benton and Daniel Pyke will present a paper entitled ‘More life: less maintenance - Innovative rail products reducing life-cycle costs'.

More than 400 companies will be taking part in Railtex 2013, which takes place at the Earls Court exhibition centre in London from 30 April to 2 May. Advance visitor registration for free entry is via www.railtex.co.uk. The website also provides full details of a wide range of supporting activities and the latest list of exhibitors.

Railtex 2013 is organised by Mack Brooks Exhibitions (www.mackbrooks.com), which also runs the Infrarail series of rail infrastructure events in the UK. The company’s rail technology exhibitions additionally include EXPO Ferroviaria in Italy, Exporail in Russia, Exporail India and SIFER in France.

-ENDS-

For further press information on Railtex 2013 contact:

Ken Harris

Tel: (+44) (0) 1273 300 434

Email: ken.harris@mackbrooks.co.uk

For general enquiries contact:

Heidi Cotsworth or Lisa Sinnott

Tel: (+44) (0) 1727 814 400

Fax: (+44) (0) 1727 814 401

Email: railtex@mackbrooks.co.uk

Notes to Editors

Railtex 2013

Railtex is the all-encompassing showcase for technological innovation across all sectors of the rail supply market. Against a backdrop of continuing investment in rail and significant ongoing projects, Railtex provides a timely opportunity for companies serving the rail market to highlight their capabilities and showcase their products and services.

www.railtex.co.uk

From 26 - 28 March 2013, at Lille Grand Palais, the 8thSIFER exhibition will feature as its core theme, "Made in France". Major rail-industry contractors, manufacturers, suppliers, sub-contractors, and public-transport authorities and operators, all based in France, will be exhibiting innovations, as well as a host of new products and services in a variety of areas, including rolling stock, infrastructure, passenger transport technology, and rail vehicle interiors.

Among them:

- Alstom Transport: One of the leading names in the railway industry. The company operates 10 production sites in France;

- Brot Technologies: An equipment manufacturer located in the Paris region, specialising in the manufacture and integration of windshield wiper systems;

- Euro-Shelter: Manufacturers of shelters for the defence sector, and specialists in rail-vehicle interior structures and fitting. The company's production site is based in Rennes;

- Teamfer: A Seyssins-based company which has designed a track geometry measurement trolley.

Alstom Transport - Stand 1/340-B

Designing Fluidity

From trains and signalling systems, to infrastructure, services and turnkey solutions, Alstom Transport offers the widest range of cutting-edge rail solutions in the industry. With a workforce of over 8,500 employees in France, it brings a wealth of expertise and know-how to customers both in France and abroad, generating more than 30,000 jobs among its 4,600 French suppliers.

At SIFER 2013, Alstom Transport will be exhibiting 3 new "Made in France" products: the new-generation Régiolis train, manufactured in Reichshoffen, the new trainsets for Line 1 of the Lille underground system, and the Dualis tram-train system, both of which were designed in Valenciennes.

Founded in: 1928. Sites in France: Vitrolles (13), la Rochelle (17), Ornans (25), Valenciennes (59), Tarbes (65), Reichshoffen (67), Villeurbanne (69), le Creusot (71), Belfort (90) and Saint-Ouen (93). Workforce: 27,000 employees, incuding 8,700 in France. Managing Director, France: Jérôme Wallut. www.alstom.com

Why operate a "Made in France" policy? “Despite being an international company, Alstom Transport is very firmly rooting in France. Because of our historical presence in France, catchment areas for employment, suppliers and skills have developed around each of our 10 production sites. This contributes to our development. Some 80% of Alstom Transport's R&D is conducted in France, to protect our patents and industrial property rights. And we intend to pursue our development in France.”

What competitive advantages are gained by operating a "Made in France" policy? “Operating a "Made in France" policy represents an obligation for the company to deliver performance. Our strength lies in our geographic proximity to our suppliers, which allows us to be competitive in both the French and export markets. A company can only be successful in export markets if it is successful in its national market. This is a demanding position, but one which enables us to make progress in terms of innovation and industrial performance, and in so doing, rationalize costs. Alstom Transport's French subsidiary accounts for almost half of the company's total revenue of EUR 2.5 billion, of which EUR 1 billion is generated outside France.

Euro-Shelter - Stand 1/308

Sandwich Panels

Originally founded as a designer and manufacturer of shelters for the Ministry of Defence, sandwich panels and sandwich-panel structures, and aluminium containers, Euro Shelter has complemented its know-how with expertise in rail-vehicle interior structures and fitting. The Rennes-based company is wholly owned by Nexter Systems.

At SIFER, Euro-Shelter will be presenting a full-scale mockup of a concept train to showcase its production capabilities and the use of its products.

Founded in: Thirty years' experience in the design and manufacture of technical shelters for a wide range of civilian and military applications. Location: Rennes (35). Workforce: 51 employees. Executive Managing Director: Gaël Hardy. www.euro-shelter.com

Why operate a "Made in France" policy? “This is a perfectly natural choice for us. We work mainly for defence contractors, and in this sector, we must be sure that the products we offer are of the highest possible quality. For us, sourcing and manufacturing in France is a guarantee of quality. Our products are not mass produced. We need to be able to work closely with companies that are specialists in their fields, and which are not simply low-cost suppliers. When a company like ours delivers rail-vehicle flooring, we need to make sure that it is made to last. Keeping our manufacturing operations in France provides us with that assurance.”

So manufacturing in France gives you a competitive advantage? “Even though we are newcomers to the rail industry, our extensive experience in the defence sector – a sector that naturally favours operating a "Made in France" policy – is proof that this strategy sets us apart from our competitors. Cost should not be a barrier to quality and safety. What's more, all of our products are sourced in France, and assembled at our plant in Rennes. This close proximity to our suppliers makes them more responsive and enables a better understanding of our specific issues."

Brot Technologies - Stand 2/547

Railway Windshield Wiper System

Brot Technologies is a French equipment manufacturer which specializes in the design and integration of windshield wiper systems for the rail industry. All design, R&D, manufacturing and integration operations are performed at the company's plant in Argenteuil.

Founded in: 1919. Location: Argenteuil (95). Workforce: 25 employees; 2 new hires in progress. Manager: Gilles Charlier.

www.brot-technologies.com

Why operate a "Made in France" policy? “Operating a "Made in France" policy is reassuring for our customers. They see it as a plus, adding value to our know-how. By pursuing a "Made in France" policy, we have effective control over the entire production process. Our organisation structure enables us to achieve a high degree of flexibility, which means that we are able to respond to all of our customers' demands, even the most urgent. Moreover, we only work with local suppliers. We have explored the possibility of sourcing a part of our production operations abroad, notably in Asia, but because of quality and responsiveness issues, we decided to abandon the idea. Additionally, since we specialize in short runs, production costs were not attractive enough to make it worth our while.”

Who are your customers? “We work with both French and foreign customers. Our international presence testifies to the quality of our French know-how. We work with some of the major names in the rail industry, including Siemens, Alstom, Bombardier, SNCF, Hitachi, Hyundai-Rotem… "

How do you see the future?"We are confident about the prospects for our business. However, the railway market is currently facing a number of challenges. Accessing export markets should be a driver for growth. As a case in point, exports account for 63% of our overall revenue. I think that a "Made in France" policy is relevant for the development of our market."

Teamfer- Stand 2/604

Measurement tools

As a specialist in high-precision measurement in harsh environments, TeamFer offers a range of innovative systems for the rail industry (rail, track and surrounding areas), including continuous acquisition track-geometry gauges and trolleys, ultra-light precision gauge and cant measurement devices, and productivity-enhancing software.

Founded in: 2010. Location: Seyssins (38). Workforce: 3 employees. Managers: Pascale Beaudoing and Henri Bollon.

www.teamfer.com

Why operate a "Made in France" policy? “We sell measurement devices and trolleys designed specifically for the rail industry. To manufacture our products, we work with a number of local partners, including design and engineering firms for the design of our products, machining companies for the manufacture of mechanical parts, and electronic specialists for our electronic components. The products we develop are quite technical in nature, so manufacturing is very important to us. Being in close proximity to our suppliers allows for a high degree of responsiveness.”

Does manufacturing in France constitute a competitive advantage? “Certainly. It's not simply a question of economic patriotism. Manufacturing in France affords a real competitive advantage, which derives from the responsiveness of our suppliers. Working with local partners and suppliers saves us a lot of time. We could very well work with foreign design and engineering firms, but we need this proximity. Moreover, in terms of service, flexibility and responsiveness, there is no doubt that, overall, it is cheaper for us to manufacture in France.”

SIFER 2011 at a glance

400 exhibitors (from 16 European countries; 25% of the exhibitors came from abroad), including Alstom, a Chinese delegation, clusters …

4,400 visitors (from 41 countries; 16% of the visitors came from abroad), including representatives from SNCF, Keolis, Bombardier, Siemens, RATP, and the Urban Communities of several of France's major cities.

Press contact

RP carrées
Benoît Renart
Tel.: +33(0)328 520 057
Email: benoit.renart@rp-carrees.com
www.rp-carrees.com

From 19 – 21 March 2013 the first CCE International, Exhibition for the Corrugated and Folding Carton Industry, is being held at the Munich Trade Fair Centre, in Munich, Germany.

A total of 110 exhibitors from 15 countries put a wide range of innovative products and solutions for the production and converting of corrugated and cartonboard on display. The exhibition range covers raw materials, corrugated equipment, corrugated converting equipment, folding carton converting equipment, printing equipment, pre-production and pre-press, materials handling and warehousing, waste extraction and baling as well as machine and plant controls.

With a net exhibition space of 3,300m2, the launch event is of substantial size. “The hugely positive feedback from exhibiting companies proves that there is a definite demand for a specialised trade exhibition for the corrugated and folding carton industry in Europe. We are delighted to be able to report that so many companies have booked large exhibition stands for live demonstrations of their machines and equipment; this is what the visitors expect to see at such a show,” says Nicola Hamann, Exhibition Director CCE International, on behalf of the organisers, Mack Brooks Exhibitions.

With more than 80% of the exhibiting companies coming from outside Germany, the exhibition is a thoroughly international event. The most important exhibitor countries at CCE International 2013 are Italy, Germany, Great Britain, the USA, France, the Netherlands and China.

CCE International is co-located with ICE Europe 2013, the leading trade exhibition for the paper, film and foil converting industry. Both exhibitions can be accessed via the East Entrance of the Munich Trade Fair Centre. ICE Europe 2013 is held in halls A5 and A6; and CCE International occupies hall B6, directly opposite. The entry tickets are valid for both shows.
“ICE and CCE attract a variety of production specialists and packaging designers across industry sectors such as food and beverage, pharmaceutical, cosmetics and tobacco. Converters and packaging professionals are therefore able to experience sustainable packaging trends first-hand at this industry highlight held over the next  three days in Munich,” says Nicola Hamann.

CCE International is open on 19 and 20 March 2013, from 9am – 5pm, and on 21 March 2013 from 9am – 4pm. Tickets can be purchased on-site and online. The one- day-ticket price on-site is 30€, the reduced online price is 20€; the three-day-ticket price on-site is 45€, online 30€.

Detailed information is available online at www.cce-international.com or via the mobile app www.cce2go.com

Issued by: Susanne Neuner, PR Director
CCE International Press Office, Mack Brooks Exhibitions
Romeland House, Romeland Hill, St Albans, Herts AL3 4ET, United Kingdom
Tel: +44 (0)1727 814400, Fax: +44 (0)1727 814401, E-Mail: press@mackbrooks.co.uk
Tel: (for the duration of the exhibition): +49 (0) 176 10572555

The 8^th International Converting Exhibition, ICE Europe 2013, shows a further increase in floor space and exhibitor figures. A total of 401 exhibitors from 19 countries are showcasing their products and services on a net exhibition space of 10,100 m².

From 19 -21 March 2013 converting specialists from all over the world come together in Munich for their leading industry event, ICE Europe, to discover technical advancements and future trends, and to source suitable equipment for their companies. Exhibiting companies are presenting a comprehensive variety of machines, systems and accessories for the converting of flexible web materials, such as paper, film, foil and nonwovens.

With its theme ‘Ideas and Expertise for Converting Specialists’, innovations and its practical applications are in the focus of ICE Europe 2013. The exhibition profile includes machines, accessories and systems for coating and laminating, drying/curing, treatment, slitting/rewinding, finishing and flexographic / rotogravure printing. Materials, software, retrofits, factory equipment, control/test and measurement as well as consulting and toll converting services will also be on display.

This year’s event is once again highly international, with 41% of the exhibitors coming from outside Germany. The biggest exhibitor countries after Germany are Great Britain, Italy, the USA, Switzerland and France.

“With the ever increasing worldwide demand for flexible packaging solutions and a strong market for added-value products, the converting industry is facing exciting times with remarkably positive business opportunities,” explains Nicola Hamann, Exhibition Director ICE Europe, on behalf of the organisers, Mack Brooks Exhibitions.

“With ICE Europe we offer the converting industry a highly specialised platform to build global business contacts, develop networks and exchange expertise,” says Nicola Hamann.

For the first time, CCE International 2013, Europe’s only dedicated trade fair for the corrugated and folding carton industries, will be co-located to ICE Europe. “For converting specialists and packaging professionals the co-location of events will provide even more business contacts and sourcing opportunities for sustainable packaging solutions,” says Nicola Hamann.

A three-day technical conference, organised by AIMCAL (Association of International Metallizers, Coaters and Laminators) in association with the Fraunhofer IVV Institute, will be held  alongside the exhibition. The conference takes place every day between 10am-12pm and topics include web coating and web handling.

ICE Europe 2013 is open for visitors on 19 and 20 March 2013, from 9am – 5pm and on 21 March 2013 from 9am – 4pm. The price for a one-day-ticket on-site is 30€, the discounted online price is 20€; the price of a three-day-ticket on-site is 45€ and reduced online for 30€. Access to ICE Europe 2013 as well as to CCE International is via the East entrance of the Munich Trade Fair Centre.

Up-to-date information about the exhibition is available on the exhibition website www.ice-x.com or via the smartphone app www.cce2go.com

Issued by: Susanne Neuner, PR Director
ICE International Press Office, Mack Brooks Exhibitions
Romeland House, Romeland Hill, St Albans, Herts AL3 4ET, United Kingdom
Tel: +44 (0)1727 814400, Fax: +44 (0)1727 814401, E-Mail: press@mackbrooks.co.uk Tel: (for the duration of the exhibition): +49 (0) 176 10572555

Fastener Fair Stuttgart 2013, Europe’s leading trade fair for the fastener and fixing industry, ended today with record results in visitor and exhibitor numbers as well as exhibition space. A total of 10,600 visitors from 97 countries have come to Stuttgart over the past three exhibition days to discover the latest trends and products, to make new business contacts and build international trade networks. Covering a net exhibition area of more than 16,000m2 in three fully booked exhibition halls, a total of 811 exhibitors from 36 countries showcased a comprehensive range of products and services for the fastener and fixing industry.

“An increase of 28% in visitor numbers, 21% in exhibitor numbers and 30% in exhibition space in comparison to the previous exhibition are without a doubt leading results,” explains Susanne Rauberger, Exhibition Director Fastener Fair Stuttgart, on behalf of the organisers, Mack Brooks Exhibitions.

“We are particularly delighted to be able to say that there was lively trading activity taking place throughout the three exhibition halls and the atmosphere was buoyant. A large number of exhibitors were able to report excellent sales figures and valuable business contacts. We want to congratulate our exhibitors and visitors for this great success,” says Susanne Rauberger.

Visitors from all over the world made their way to Stuttgart to discover the latest industry trends and to source new products and systems. The most important visitor countries after Germany (46% of all visitors) were Italy, Great Britain, France and Poland.

The range of exhibits included industrial fasteners and fixings, construction fixings, assembly and installation systems, fastener manufacturing technology as well as storage and logistics services. Exhibiting companies and visitors alike praised the outstanding quality and international flavour of the exhibition.   

Results of a first exhibitor survey reveal that an absolute majority of exhibitors were highly satisfied with the results of the trade show and most of this year’s exhibitors are already planning their participation at the next Fastener Fair Stuttgart which will be held from 10 – 12 March 2015.

Next year, the fastener and fixing industry can once again look forward to Fastener Fair Hannover, held from 8-10 April 2014 at the Hanover Exhibition Grounds in Hanover, Germany.  

Further information about the Fastener Fair events is available on the website: www.fastenerfair.com


Issued by: Susanne Neuner, PR Director
Fastener Fair Press Office
Mack Brooks Exhibitions Ltd, Romeland House, Romeland Hill, St Albans, Herts AL3 4ET, UK
Tel: +44 (0)1727 814 400, Fax: +44 (0)1727 814 401
Email: press@mackbrooks.co.uk

Europe’s leading trade fair for the fastener and fixing industry, Fastener Fair Stuttgart 2013, opens its doors from 26 – 28 February 2013 at the Trade Fair Centre in Stuttgart. The show, organised by Mack Brooks Exhibitions, continues its excellent track record. Being fully booked, this year’s exhibition is able to show a further growth of 21% in exhibitor figures and an increase in 30% of exhibition space in comparison to the previous record exhibition. This time, a total of 811 exhibitors from 36 countries are presenting new technical developments as well as conventional systems from all areas of fastener and fixings technology on a net exhibition space of over 16,000m². A total of 8,300 trade visitors attended the previous Fastener Fair Stuttgart.

While Germany remains the most important exhibiting country, the high percentage of international participation at this year’s exhibition reflects the global orientation of the fastener and fixing industry. Three quarters of exhibitors come from outside of Germany, with Italy, Great Britain, Turkey, the Netherlands, Spain, Poland, France and the USA as the most important Western exhibiting countries, after Germany. From Asia, represented exhibitors are mainly from Taiwan, China and India.

Fastener Fair Stuttgart presents new developments from all areas of the fastener and fixing technology. The exhibition comprises industrial fasteners and fixings, construction fixings, assembly and installation systems, fastener manufacturing technology, storage and factory equipment, as well as all associated services. This year’s competition ‘Fastener Technology Innovator’ points out all the stands where visitors can discover and evaluate the latest developments in fastening technology.

Fastener Fair Stuttgart plays a significant role as an international platform for the exchange of expertise and as a source of inspiration for future business trends in the industry sector. At Fastener Fair Stuttgart, distributors, suppliers, specifiers and other industry professionals from all over the world come together to discover the latest technical solutions, make new contacts, do business and build international networks. Currently, for companies in the fastener and fixing industry, technical know-how for the continuous development of new products with even higher precision is just as crucial as the global network of the distribution structure.

Fastener Fair Stuttgart 2013 occupies halls 4, 6 and 8 of the trade fair grounds in Stuttgart. The Trade Fair Centre in Stuttgart is conveniently located next to the airport and is also easily accessible by car and train.

The opening times for the event are 26-27 February 2013, from 9am-5pm and 28 February 2013, from 9am-3pm. Entrance tickets on the door cost €30. By pre-registering online through the exhibition website, the ticket price is reduced to €20.

Detailed information about the exhibition is available on the exhibition website: www.fastenerfair.com

For the first time, Springstec Fair, a new trade exhibition exclusively dedicated to industrial springs and spring technology takes place alongside Fastener Fair Stuttgart. The exhibition covers all types of springs used in industry and manufacturing.

Issued by: Susanne Neuner, PR Director
Fastener Fair Press Office, Mack Brooks Exhibitions Ltd
Romeland House, Romeland Hill, St Albans, Herts AL3 4ET, United Kingdom
Tel. +44 (0)1727 814400, Fax +44 (0) 1727814401; E-Mail: press@mackbrooks.co.uk

Contact on-site: Fastener Fair Press Office in Stuttgart:
Susanne Neuner, Tel. +49 (0)17610572555, Email: press@mackbrooks.co.uk

SpringsTec Fair 2013, the trade exhibition exclusively dedicated to industrial springs and spring technology takes place from 26 - 28 February 2013 at the Messe Stuttgart Trade Fair Centre in Germany. The region around Stuttgart is one of Germany’s major industry hubs, home to many of Europe’s leading manufacturers in the automotive, mechanical, medical and electrical engineering sectors.

Mack Brooks Exhibitions’ idea of launching SpringsTec Fair resulted from comprehensive industry surveys carried out at several Fastener Fair events. Survey results revealed the need for a focussed event for the technology of springs that acts as a meeting point for technology providers, the end-users, distributors and specifiers.

“Our initial research showed that despite springs technology certainly being a niche business, it is rather significant. The 2010 production values in the EU suggested a turnover of 3.3 billion euros for all types of springs and around 1.35 billion euros for helical springs alone. Germany is dominant in this industry sector, followed by France, Italy and the UK. The demand for springs technology seemed to be high enough to justify our investment in a dedicated event designed to meet the needs of this dynamic industry sector,” explains David Tellett, Managing Director, Mack Brooks Exhibitions Ltd.

The first SpringsTec Fair is now opening its doors enabling buyers, distributors and end-users of industrial springs, spring parts and wire forms to establish new business relations quickly and directly. Visitors to the show have the opportunity to learn about innovative products, to source the latest systems and solutions, and to exchange their expertise.

Fifty exhibitors from thirteen countries are presenting an extensive range of industrial springs, spring parts and wire forms at SpringsTec Fair 2013. The exhibition covers all types of springs used in industry and manufacturing such as helical, torsion, leaf, flat and other springs as well as related products and services.

Alongside exhibiting companies from Germany, the event features exhibitors from Italy, France, the United Kingdom, Turkey, Switzerland and Spain as well as the USA, Taiwan, India, China and Indonesia.

SpringsTec Fair 2013 is co-located to Fastener Fair Stuttgart, Europe’s biggest exhibition for the fastener and fixings industry. SpringsTec Fair 2013 is open from 26 – 27 February from 10am - 5pm, and on 28 February from 10am - 3pm. Online registration for SpringsTec Fair 2013 is now open and free of charge at the exhibition website www.springstecfair.com.

ENDS

Issued by: Susanne Neuner, PR Director
SpringsTec Fair Press Office
Mack Brooks Exhibitions Ltd
Romeland House, Romeland Hill, St Albans, Herts AL3 4ET, United Kingdom
Tel. +44 (0)1727 814 400, Fax: +44 (0)1727 814 401
Email: press@mackbrooks.co.uk

BLECH Russia 2013 will take place from 12-14 March 2013 at the Lenexpo Exhibition Complex in St. Petersburg, Russia. A total of 122 exhibitors from 14 countries worldwide have booked their stands at the third edition of this specialised trade exhibition for the Russian sheet metal working industry. A large number of exhibitors are Russian companies representing some sixty renowned technology brands for sheet metal working applications. However, more than half of the exhibitors come from outside Russia, namely from Germany, Belarus, Italy, Austria, China, Finland, France, Latvia, the Netherlands, Spain, Taiwan, Turkey and the USA.

“For foreign exhibitors, this dedicated trade exhibition for Russia’s sheet metal working industry is an excellent opportunity to gain new contacts and develop business relations and partnerships in the expanding Russian market. Continuous growth forecasts for the Russian sheet metal working industry and the favourable location of this exhibition in booming St. Petersburg are the best conditions for a  successful BLECH Russia event,” says Susanne Rauberger, Exhibition Director BLECH Russia 2013, on behalf of the organisers.

Russia’s growing domestic demand is driven by an ongoing need for modernisation and development of the country’s infrastructure and an increasing demand for consumer goods such as cars, white goods, electrical appliances and electronic equipment. The country holds a positive economic outlook and remains a key growth market for international automotive manufacturers and suppliers of sheet metal working machines, tools and systems. Growth is expected to vary between 8-14% throughout the next decade.

International partnerships have become essential in fostering technology transfer, opening unique opportunities in the wider St. Petersburg area, with its focus on automotive, shipbuilding as well as innovative electronic, metal working and environmental technologies. The St. Petersburg region is also the fastest growing industrial area in Russia, offering a high investment potential together with a large base of already established international production companies.  St. Petersburg is a major automotive production centre; resident international companies include Toyota, General Motors, Nissan, Suzuki, Hyundai, Ford, Scania, MAN and Magna.

BLECH Russia covers all core sectors of the sheet metal manufacturing process: Sheet metal, finished and semi-finished products, handling, forming, separation and joining technology, flexible sheet metal working, machine elements, handling, surface treatment, CAD/CAM applications as well as tools and services.

Co-located with this year’s exhibition, the new event, Fastener Fair Russia 2013, will be held alongside BLECH Russia 2013 at the Lenexpo exhibition centre in St. Petersburg. Fastener Fair Russia is a trade show dedicated to the Russian fastener and fixing industry and covers the complete range of industrial fasteners and fixings, construction fixings, assembly and installation systems and fastener manufacturing technology.

BLECH Russia is open on 12 and 13 March 2013, from 10:00 - 17:00, and on 14 March 2013 from 10:00 - 16:00. The exhibition website provides comprehensive information for exhibitors and visitors: www.blechrussia.com.

Issued by: Susanne Neuner, PR Director
BLECH Events press office
Mack Brooks Exhibitions Ltd,
Romeland House, Romeland Hill, St Albans, Herts AL3 4ET, Great Britain
Tel: +44 (0)1727 814400; Fax: +44 (0)1727 814401;
Email: press@mackbrooks.co.uk

The press conference for the 2nd edition of Fastener Fair Thailand was held at the Landmark Hotel, Bangkok and was supported by the Thai Autoparts Manufacturers Association and the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau. After a very successful 1st edition that saw over 3000 industry professionals attending the show, the numbers for Fastener Fair Thailand 2013 are expected to grow and continue its success as the ideal show for anyone using fasteners or operating in the fastener industry. Fastener Fair Thailand 2013 will take place at the Bangkok International Trade and Exhibition Centre (BITEC) from 9 – 11 October.

Guest speaker Khun Achana Limpaitoon, president of Thai Autoparts Manufacturers Association (TAPMA) stated that “In 2012, due to the government tax rebate scheme for first time car buyers saw an increase in automobile products and subsequently an increase in the demand for automotive fasteners”.

She added that “TAPMA, the union representing autoparts manufacturing companies from the private sector, will support Fastener Fair Thailand 2013 as it’s a show that supports and will help develop the Thai fastener and fixing sector, which includes autoparts manufacturers, as well as increase Thailand’s competitive edge in the fastener manufacturing industry.

Also guest speaker Khun Salanroj Sutaschuto, Director of Administrative Department of Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) said “TCEB’s mission is to promote meetings, incentive travel, conventions and exhibitions, known by the acronym MICE, in order to make Thailand a regional hub for international MICE events. By supporting Fastener Fair Thailand for the second year, with the marketing campaign 100 A- Head to draw visitors from the ASEAN plus six countries and the BE My Guest program providing accommodation for VIP buyers. We believe that it will reinforce Thailand’s potential in the fastener and fixing production especially for the automotive, construction and electronics industry and also increase trade business both domestic and international”.

Finally Mr Michael Wilton, Exhibitions Director from Mack Brooks Exhibitions, the organiser of Fastener Fair Thailand 2013 said “Fastener Fair Thailand 2012 saw over 3000 industry professionals attending the show from Thailand and SE Asia in addition to countries such as China, Taiwan, Netherlands, Italy and many more. The success of the show in 2012 was due to the growth of heavy fastener using markets in Thailand such as automotive, electronics, white goods construction, transport and infrastructure. Fastener Fair Thailand 2013 will again provide ample opportunities to establish new and successful business contacts in Thailand and the ASEAN region.”

For more information please visit www.fastenerfair-thailand.com


About Fastener Fair
The internationally renowned brand ‘Fastener Fairs’ successfully hosts targeted trade events in some of the most attractive market places for this industry. Fastener Fair Thailand is part of the Fastener Fair series of trade exhibitions targeting the fastener and fixing industry offering outstanding opportunities for everyone involved in fastener and fixing technology to trade and source products, services and solutions in the world’s leading markets.

About Mack Brooks Exhibitions Group
Established in 1965, the company owns and organises leading international trade fairs and 'business to business' exhibitions, events and conferences around the world in the fields of engineering, transport, metalworking, information technology, textiles, food and beverages, railways, construction, tunnelling, printing, converting, airport management and aviation. The Group also publishes related directories, magazines, sector reports and internet sites.

For more information please contact

Emma Preston
Fastener Fair Thailand,
Mack Brooks Exhibitions Ltd, Romeland House, Romeland Hill, St Albans, Herts AL3 4ET, United Kingdom
+44(0)1727 814400
Email: emma.preston@mackbrooks.co.uk

Fastener Fair Turkey, the dedicated exhibition for fastener and fixing technology, will take place at the IFM Istanbul Expo Centre, Istanbul from 21 - 22 November 2013.

Strategically positioned at the crossroads of Europe, Asia and the Middle East, Turkey not only has an advanced domestic fastener industry, it also possesses unique growth opportunities as a technology and supply hub for surrounding markets. All of which makes its cosmopolitan city, Istanbul, uniquely suited to host the only dedicated fastener and fixing exhibition in the region during 2013.  

Turkey has demonstrated stable economic growth over the last decade, achieving better than 5% average real GDP growth. For the coming five years the OECD projects Turkey to be the fastest emerging economy amongst its members. Europe’s largest bus and third largest light commercial vehicle manufacturer, Turkey also has a strongly developing car production industry, with fifteen domestic and foreign automotive manufacturers. Turkey is also one of Europe’s leading home appliance manufacturers and the largest television producer in Europe. Factor in its role as furniture production hub for the Middle East, involving some 30,000 companies, and strongly developed machinery, marine and petrochemical sectors and it is easy to see why Turkey supports an extensive fastener manufacturing and distribution community. In the decade to come preparations for the centenary of the Republic of Turkey, involving major programs of public investment and incentives for infrastructure, construction and energy efficiency projects, will further drive growth in an already vibrant fastener and fixings sector.

The exhibition will present the latest industrial fastener and construction fixing solutions, together with assembly and installation systems, fastener manufacturing technologies, and the wide range of support services that underpin the modern fastener supply industry.

Organised by Mack Brooks Fuarcılık A.Ş., part of Mack Brooks Exhibitions Ltd which has been responsible for successfully developing the Fastener Fair concept into strategic growth markets across the globe, Fastener Fair Turkey will attract key professional visitors, including engineers and buyers sourcing and specifying fastener technologies, from across Turkish and surrounding market industrial sectors.

Fastener Fair Turkey will be staged in Hall 11 of the IFM Istanbul Expo Centre, located opposite the Istanbul International Airport and easily accessible by metro, bus or car. IFM has become one of the leading international trade fair centres with world-class facilities and modern, sophisticated infrastructure.

Additional information about Fastener Fair Turkey 2013 is available at the regularly updated show website: www.fastenerfairturkey.com.

For further press information contact:
Susanne Neuner
Email: press@mackbrooks.co.uk

For Fastener Fair Turkey 2013 exhibiting and visiting enquiries please contact:
Gizem Erdem
Tel: +44 (0) 1727 814 400
Fax: +44 (0) 1727 814 401
Email: turkey@fastenerfair.com

Building on the success of the Fastener Fair brand in Germany, Brazil, India, Thailand and Russia, Mack Brooks Exhibitions has announced further global expansion with a new edition of the trade show in Mexico next year.

Fastener Fair Mexico will take place at Centro Banamex in Mexico City from 12-13 March 2014.

Mexico is the second largest economy in Latin America and one of the fastest developing markets in the world offering many business opportunities for the fastener and fixings industry. Mexico's strong domestic demand and exports are increasing at a fast rate. The country is also part of NAFTA and has 12 free trade agreements with 44 countries.

Major industries in Mexico include automotive, electronics, iron and steel, petroleum, energy and construction. These growing industry sectors as well as the major infrastructure projects taking place across the country offer companies in the fastener and fixing sector ample business opportunity.

“The rapid economic development in Mexico has resulted in increasing demands from companies in the fastenings and fixings sector to approach this important market. This led us to launch a new Fastener Fair in Mexico City, Mexico’s commercial centre known for its strong industrial and trade capacity. For companies in the fastener and fixings sector it is the best place to approach this buoyant market,” says Candyce Costa, Exhibition Manager Fastener Fair Mexico, on behalf of the organisers, Mack Brooks Exhibitions.

The exhibition profile of Fastener Fair Mexico covers industrial fasteners and fixings, construction fixings, assembly and installation systems, fastener manufacturing technology as well as storage and logistics services. As the dedicated market place for the fastener and fixings industry in Mexico, the exhibition will provide buying and networking opportunities for distributors, suppliers, engineers and industry professionals.  Furthermore, the event will offer a perfect business platform for trade professionals to establish both commercial partnerships and new contacts within Central America. For international exhibitors, it will offer an opportunity to approach this buoyant growth market and to establish business relations, both with customers and with potential local agents and partners.

For companies interested in exhibiting at this specialised industry event for Mexico’s fasteners and fixings industry, detailed information is now available at the Fastener Fair website at www.fastenerfair.com

Issued by:

Susanne Neuner, PR Director

Fastener Fair Press Office, Mack Brooks Exhibitions Ltd

Romeland House, Romeland Hill, St Albans, Herts AL34ET, United Kingdom

Tel: +44(0)1727 814400, Fax: +44 (0)1727 814401; Email: press@mackbrooks.co.uk

This year, major railway industry contractors, equipment manufacturers, suppliers, sub-contractors, public transport authorities and operators, institutional players, and researchers will be gathering at the 8^th SIFER Exhibition with a common goal: to embrace cooperation as a means of remaining competitive.

The French railway industry is universally acknowledged for its technological excellence. Nonetheless, in a world of increasingly intense international competition, embracing new ways of operating will be a decisive factor in maintaining a leading position on the international stage. New forms of collaboration will, without question, be a major driver of competitive advantage, especially in markets which call for long-term commitment, and which require—more so than others—collaborative forms of working.

Accordingly, this year, SIFER—the only international railway exhibition in France that cuts across all segments of the industry—will be hosting its 2013 edition under the banner of cooperation. Without a doubt, in uniting their forces, players across the industry—be they research laboratories or SMEs, equipment manufacturers or key accounts—are effectively enhancing their competitive advantage. Whether through business clusters, novel forms of industry-research cooperation, or new approaches to contractor-supplier relations, many of them have already begun imagining, designing and developing innovative solutions for the transport industry of tomorrow.

SIFER 2013 – Supporting clusters and regional-authority involvement to create new synergies that create competitive advantage

To maintain their competitive advantage, several railway industry players have already begun to group together in clusters. In pooling their resources in this way, they have been able to develop innovative solutions, reduce costs, and preserve or even boost economic activity within their territories, and in so doing, promote employment.

As exhibitors at SIFER 2013, these organisations, grouped together in 5 regional pavilions, will provide a showcase for the opportunities afforded by and the concrete results achieved through these new modes of collaboration.

Here is what Mr. Pascal Pin, Director of Mipyrail Innovation, has to say about their experience: "Since 2010, the MipyRail Innovation cluster has acted as a catalyst, enabling companies based in the Midi-Pyrénées region to establish closer ties with major industry contractors. Several joint undertakings have since been initiated. Clustering companies within the same industry has several advantages. For instance, the various forms of cooperation engendered by the process makes it easier for SMEs to gain access to export markets. Further, the mere fact of "rubbing shoulders" with other companies involved in related businesses enables a more global view of a business' environment, making it easier to anticipate needs.  And by pooling resources, greater visibility can be achieved. Our presence at SIFER illustrates this perfectly. At SIFER, we have planned to set up a welcome area where all of our members can meet, exchange ideas, and arrange business appointments.”

Railway clusters attending SIFER, grouped together in 5 regional pavilions

Northern France Rail

Northern France Rail: A common name for a common purpose, i.e., to promote the Nord-Pas de Calais and Picardie Regions railway cluster. Northern France Rail is an umbrella organisation which brings together several regional railway-industry companies and research and training centres, as well as a number of institutional players involved in the development of the sector.

Neopolia Rail Cluster

Based in the Pays-de-la-Loire Region, Neopolia Rail Cluster is a grouping of 37 companies whose aim is to pool their know-how to provide innovative solutions in response to the needs of the railway market.

MipyRail Innovation

MipyRail Innovation is a railway-industry cluster comprising 21 companies from the Midi-Pyrénées region. Its members account for some 5,400 jobs, across all areas of the industry, and include infrastructure providers, rolling-stock manufacturers, electronic system suppliers, software houses, and providers in the field of support, testing, maintenance and renovation. Its primary goal is to promote Midi-Pyrénées' railway sector.

Île-de-France Pavilion

The Seine-et-Marne CCI (Chamber of Industry and Commerce) provides support for companies at national and international trade shows in the industrial, medical, defense, aviation, energy and environmental sectors.

Bourgogne CCI

The Bourgogne Regional Chamber of Commerce and Industry represents industrial interests at the regional level. At SIFER, with the backing of the Regional Council, it organises the attendance of local companies in the rolling-stock sector (precision machining and mechanics, sheet metalwork, bodywork, industrial painting, braking systems, hydraulic components,...).

Programme highlights

1^st French Railway Industries Association (FIF) Conference: "The Future of the French Railway Industry". 27 March 2013

This conference will address the issue of the strategic benefits, for France, of developing a more structured, better organised, and consolidated railway industry that is sustainable in the long term.

ARF Transport des régions de France Commission. Wednesday 27 March 2013

A meeting of regional representatives (Transport Directors and Vice-Chairs in charge of Transport) to discuss issues relating to the railway industry.

SIFER 2013 – Major industry contractors and Suppliers: a win-win relationship

The relationship between major industry contractors and suppliers is changing. The combined effect of the current challenging economic situation and the need to find new ways of improving performance to remain competitive provides a powerful incentive for greater cooperation. Yann Mazloum, Director of the Strategy and Supplier Relations Division in SNCF's Rolling Stock Purchasing Department expands on the topic: "The relationship between major industry contractors and suppliers is a complex one. An SNCF supplier can be, at the same time, a customer, partner, and competitor. Our aim is to be able to engage with our best suppliers as partners. As our relationships are based on long-term trust, relationships based on the sole reduction of purchasing costs are really quite remote to us. In an increasingly competitive environment, SNCF, as a customer of and a major player in the railway industry, needs high-quality suppliers to develop its competitive advantage. And this is beneficial to the entire industry. For example, we are currently engaged in a number of joint projects based on structured relationships with suppliers. And hosting our annual rolling-stock supplier convention at SIFER this year will allow us to further advance the exchange of views on our respective aims and expectations.”

SNCF and Agoria-SNCB will be meeting their suppliers at SIFER 2013, creating a unique opportunity to build long-term relationships based trust, and to better understand each party's specific expectations.

Agoria-SNCB events

Wednesday 27 March 2013

Information session hosted by Agoria, entitled "The SNCB Purchasing Department": New organisational structure, strategies & procedures, and the 2025 investment programme.

Open to Agoria members only

SNCF events
Tuesday 26 March 2013

SNCF Rolling-Stock Supplier Convention

Open to SNCF suppliers only

Thursday 28 March 2013
Seminar entitled "Purchasing rolling stock": SNCF's policy on the issue.

Open to all

SIFER 2013 – Promoting research-industry partnerships to invent the means of transport of tomorrow

As the cornerstone of modern-day mobility, rail must meet a number of new challenges, such as the increase in traffic, security issues, regularity, compliance with environmental regulations, equipment and infrastructure maintenance, etc. Confronted with these multiple challenges in the areas of technical progress, economic performance and environmental compliance, the railway industry has embraced innovation as the cornerstone of development strategies in the sector. More than ever before, collaboration between research and industry players will be a decisive factor.

To highlight the major challenges facing the industry, the 8^th SIFER exhibition will naturally give prominence to conclusive experiences in the area of research-industry cooperation. Among these are the Railenium Project, which seeks to promote the development of sustainable infrastructure. Alongside this emblematic project, most of the 450 expected exhibitors will be showcasing innovations that attest to the relevance of collaboration between the academic and industrial communities.

Focus on the Nord-Lock Group

The Nord-Lock Group has been specialising in bolt-securing systems since 1982. As an exhibitor at SIFER 2013, Nord-Lock will be presenting its latest innovation: a new-design washer offering the ultimate in uncompromising performance and security.

Nicolas Bert, Sales Engineer

"The Nord-Lock Group specialises in solving the most complex assembly problems. We provide a unique combination of expertise in the field of assembly, and a wide range of products—which includes, in particular, our wedge-locking technology and Superbolt tensioners—, all of which are designed and developed in-house by our Research and Development department.

New technologies and demands are creating new design challenges. On the occasion of SIFER, we will be presenting our new washer to the railway industry.

With our new generation of multifunction wedge-locking washers, we have taken bolt security to a new level.  Nord-Lock X-series washers offer optimal security through a combination of two effects: Nord-Lock's exclusive wedge effect, which prevents spontaneous loosening, and an exceptionally effective spring effect, which compensates for loss of preload due to slackening. The X-series range is the ideal solution for applications where compromise is not an option."

Originally from Sweden, Nord-Lock now boasts a global presence with subsidiaries, laboratories and partners the world over.

Focus on the Railenium Project

Railenium is a Technical Research Institute project that is unique in Europe. It brings together an impressive array of research and testing capabilities with the aim of promoting sustainable railway infrastructure. Its objectives include: developing innovative technological solutions in the field of railway infrastructure; responding to the challenges of maintaining and/or enhancing competitive advantage in a rapidly changing market; and contributing to the advancement and harmonisation of certification processes at the European level.

Twenty-eight (28) partners have already adhered to the project, including industrialists, universities, public-private research partnerships, the Nord-Pas de Calais Regional Council, and several local and state authorities.

Innovation unveiled at SIFER

Innovation Trophies

Tuesday 26 March 2013

At a ceremony organised by i-Trans, trophies will be awarded to two SIFER exhibitors for their innovations in the fields of "infrastructure" and "rolling stock and passenger information". Exhibitors' innovations will be judged on originality, energy efficiency, and economic and environmental performance by a jury of independent experts from different professional backgrounds (industry, research, local authorities).

Complementary aspects, such as the role of collaboration in developing the innovation (e.g., research-industry cooperation), filing of patents, and export achievements, will also be taken into account by the jury.

European B2B Meetings (Railway Sector)

Wednesday 27 and Thursday 28 March 2013

The Nord–Pas de Calais and Picardie regional branches of the Enterprise Europe Network, in collaboration with with i-Trans, will be hosting a business convention and European technology matchmaking event that will afford participant the opportunity to:

-    Sell and showcase their products, services, know-how, and research findings;

-    Acquire new technology, products, skills, and research findings;

-    Identify potential partners for joint R&D projects.

Thirty-minute long, one-on-one meetings with railway-industry companies and/or laboratories seeking new customers or partners will be scheduled during the exhibition.

SIFER 2011 at a glance

400 exhibitors (from 16 European countries; 25% of the exhibitors came from abroad), including Alstom, a Chinese delegation, clusters …

4,400 visitors (from 41 countries; 16% of the visitors came from abroad), including representatives from SNCF, Keolis, Bombardier, Siemens, RATP, and the Urban Communities of several of France's major cities.

Press contact

RP carrées

Benoît Renart

Tel.: +33(0)328 520 057

Email: benoit.renart@rp-carrees.com

www.rp-carrees.com

The Rt Hon Simon Burns MP, Minister of State for Transport, is to open Railtex 2013 at Earls Court in London on 30 April. On the same day the minister will also deliver a keynote speech at the show. With government investment in Britain’s railway network running at levels unprecedented in recent years, Simon Burns’ presentation is expected to provide valuable insights into policies shaping the future direction of the industry and the opportunities these will offer.

An experienced parliamentarian, Simon Burns has been MP for Chelmsford since 1987. He was appointed Minister of State for Transport in September 2012, having occupied a similar position at the Department for Health after serving as an Opposition Whip for five years. His responsibilities at the DfT include overall rail strategy, London’s public transport system including Crossrail, and the planned HS2 high-speed line.

Exhibition Manager Heidi Cotsworth commented: “We look forward to welcoming the minister to Railtex. The Coalition Government’s support for major schemes like Crossrail and HS2, as well as for other investments in the network, sends very positive signals to the companies represented at this event. I have no doubt that everyone attending the event will be very interested in what he has to say.”

The minister’s speech will be a highlight of an extensive seminar programme at Railtex 2013 which is being developed collaboratively by show organisers Mack Brooks Exhibitions and the Rail Engineer magazine. Seminars will take place throughout the show, enabling visitors and exhibitors to learn more about rail policy and technological developments from industry leaders and key suppliers. Staged in the exhibition hall, sessions will be free and open to all. The programme also features keynote speeches by Network Rail Chairman Richard Parry-Jones, CBE, on 1 May and by Crossrail Chief Executive Andrew Wolstenholme, OBE, on 2 May.

Railtex is the UK’s premier rail industry event. The 2013 edition, which takes place from 30 April to 2 May, will be the 11th in a highly successful series of exhibitions and will incorporate the most extensive ever range of supporting features. In the exhibition itself, these will include The Yard, a newly introduced display area for larger items of rail plant, and the On Track Display for rail-mounted machinery and tools.

Providing additional industry insights alongside the seminar programme will be The Platform, where for the first time Railtex in partnership with Rail Champions will host an interactive discussion forum on topical themes with panels of industry experts. In the Project Update Theatre, project directors will outline the status of major UK rail schemes. And new for the 2013 event is the Railtex Awards, celebrating the achievements of companies taking part in the exhibition.

More details can be found at www.railtex.co.uk including the latest list of exhibitors.

Railtex 2013 is organised by Mack Brooks Exhibitions (www.mackbrooks.com), which also runs the Infrarail series of rail infrastructure events in the UK. The company’s rail technology exhibitions also include EXPO Ferroviaria in Italy, Exporail in Russia, Exporail India and SIFER in France.

-ENDS-

For further press information on Railtex 2013 contact:

Ken Harris
Tel: (+44) (0) 1273 300 434
Email: ken.harris@mackbrooks.co.uk

For general enquiries contact:

Heidi Cotsworth or Lisa Sinnott
Tel: (+44) (0) 1727 814 400
Fax: (+44) (0) 1727 814 401
Email: railtex@mackbrooks.co.uk

Notes to Editors

Railtex 2013

Railtex is the all-encompassing showcase for technological innovation across all sectors of the rail supply market. Against a backdrop of continuing investment in rail and significant ongoing projects, Railtex provides a timely opportunity for companies serving the rail market to highlight their capabilities and showcase their products and services.

www.railtex.co.uk

After its record result from the previous event, Europe’s leading trade fair for the fastener and fixing industry, Fastener Fair Stuttgart, could again increase the floor space and number of exhibitors. From 26 - 28 February 2013, some 770 exhibitors from 35 countries will present their products and services on a net exhibition space of over 16,000m². Compared to the previous event two years ago, this is a growth of 15% in exhibitor figures and an increase in 28% of floor space. A total of 8,300 trade visitors attended the previous Fastener Fair Stuttgart.

The increasing demand for investment goods and consumer goods in the growth markets, together with the large-scale infrastructure projects in these regions presents the sector with new challenges.  For companies today, technical know-how for the continuous development of new products with even higher precision is just as crucial as the global network of the distribution structure.

“Fastener Fair Stuttgart plays a significant role as an international platform for the exchange of information between experts and also as a source of inspiration for future business trends in the sector,” explains Susanne Rauberger, Exhibition Director Fastener Fair Stuttgart, on behalf of the organisers, Mack Brooks Exhibitions. “Here, at Fastener Fair Stuttgart, distributors, suppliers, specifiers and other industry professionals from all over the world come together to make new contacts, do business and build networks worldwide. The further increase in exhibitors and floor space for this year’s exhibition confirms, once again, the great significance of Fastener Fair Stuttgart for this industry sector.”

The percentage of international participation at Fastener Fair Stuttgart 2013 proves that the fastener and fixing industry is a globally oriented industry sector. Three quarters of exhibitors come from outside of Germany, with Italy, Great Britain, Turkey, the Netherlands, Spain, Poland, France and the USA as the most important Western exhibiting countries, after Germany. From Asia, represented exhibitors are mainly from Taiwan, China and India.

Fastener Fair Stuttgart presents new developments from all areas of the fastener and fixing technology. The exhibition comprises industrial fasteners and fixings, construction fixings, assembly and installation systems, fastener manufacturing technology, storage and factory equipment, as well as all associated services.

For visitors, a useful visitor guide has recently been published with general information about the exhibition, an exhibitor list, important information about travel and accommodation as well as details about visiting the trade fair.

Fastener Fair Stuttgart 2013 will occupy halls 4, 6 and 8 of the trade fair grounds in Stuttgart. The Trade Fair Centre in Stuttgart is conveniently located next to the airport and is also easily accessible by car and train.

The opening times for the event are 26-27 February 2013, from 9am-5pm and 28 February 2013, from 9am-3pm. Entrance tickets on the door cost €30. By pre-registering online through the exhibition website, the ticket price is reduced to €20.

More detailed information about the exhibition, such as the regularly updated exhibitor list is available on the exhibition website: www.fastenerfair.com

Issued by: Susanne Neuner, PR Director

Fastener Fair Press Office, Mack Brooks Exhibitions Ltd

Romeland House, Romeland Hill, St Albans, Herts AL3 4ET, United Kingdom

Tel. +44 (0)1727 814400, Fax +44 (0) 1727814401; E-Mail: press@mackbrooks.co.uk

After its initial great success in April 2011, Fastener Fair India 2013 will open its doors again at the Bombay Exhibition Centre in Mumbai, India from 17 - 18 April 2013.

Fastener Fair India is part of the Fastener Fair series of trade exhibitions targeting the fastener and fixings industry in selected markets, with Fastener Fair Stuttgart in Germany being the international flagship event. The exhibition covers a wide product range of industrial fasteners and fixings, assembly and installation systems, storage and logistics services, fastener manufacturing technology and construction fixings. Building on a successful first edition and benefiting from the strong market growth in key sectors such as automotive and construction, Fastener Fair India 2013 provides excellent business and networking opportunities to all industry professionals, including distributors, suppliers and engineers.

Four months ahead of the exhibition, more than 80 companies have already booked as much as 1,200m² of net exhibition space; this is more than the total exhibition space of the previous show. Alongside India and other Asian exhibitor countries, such as Taiwan and China, a large number of German and Italian companies will, once again, exhibit at India’s dedicated exhibition for the Fastener and Fixings Industry.

Not only is Fastener Fair India rapidly growing in size, it has also proven to be a high quality event which was confirmed by the exhibition survey carried out after the previous event. The survey revealed that 95% of exhibitors reported positive business enquiries at their stands and also achieved their overall aims. Furthermore, the show was given excellent marks for the quality of trade visitors. Both visitors and exhibitors praised the show as a highly professional and worthwhile industry event, ensuring positive prospects for the future.

Major fastener markets in India include automotive, rail, road, telecoms, energy, domestic appliances, construction and petrochemicals. In addition to cars and other modes of personal transport, on a consumer level there is still considerable scope for growth in domestic appliances, home electronics and air conditioning units. India’s rapidly increasing middle class ensures continuous domestic growth and rising national spending power. By 2025 middle class households are expected to grow to 550 million. India is set to be one of the fastest growing of the major economies, expected to expand its share of global economic output from 2% to 12% by 2050.

Fastener Fair India 2013 will again be co-located with BLECH India, Exhibition for Sheet Metal Working. The third edition of this highly successful trade fair will, once again, present machines, tools and systems for the entire sheet metal manufacturing process, including metal forming and bending solutions, stamping, pressing, automation, flexible manufacturing systems, metal supply, cutting, punching, joining/welding, tooling, laser technology as well as finishing and coating.

For companies interested in exhibiting at Fastener Fair India 2013, an exhibitor brochure is available from the organisers, Mack Brooks Exhibitions. The brochure includes important information on stand reservation and stand packages, the venue and the Indian fastener and fixings market. Extensive information about the show is also available on the exhibition website at www.fastenerfair.com/mumbai/.

ENDS

Issued by: Susanne Neuner, PR Director

Fastener Fairs Press Office, Mack Brooks Exhibitions

Romeland House, Romeland Hill, St Albans, Herts AL3 4ET, United Kingdom

Tel: +44 (0)1727 814400, Fax: +44 (0)1727 814401, E-Mail: press@mackbrooks.co.uk

Preparations for ICE Europe 2013 are now in full swing at the offices of organisers Mack Brooks Exhibitions. The 8^th International Exhibition for the Conversion of Flexible Web Materials will open its doors from 19 - 21 March 2013 in Munich, Germany. Four months ahead of the exhibition, 340 exhibitors from 18 countries have already booked their stands covering a net exhibition space of 9,300m² in halls A5 and A6 of the Munich Trade Fair Centre. The biggest exhibitor countries after Germany are currently Great Britain, Italy, the USA and Switzerland.

“The general outlook for the converting industry is currently rather positive. The worldwide growing demand for flexible packaging solutions and added-value products guarantee a relatively stable market situation for the converting industry despite the general economic uncertainty due to the Euro crisis and the political developments in the Middle East,” explains Nicola Hamann, Exhibition Director ICE Europe, on behalf of the organisers, Mack Brooks Exhibitions.

Innovations and practical applications take centre stage

“An important impulse for the competitiveness of this dynamic industry sector emanates from technical innovations. With this year’s theme ‘Ideas and Expertise for Converting Specialists’, innovations and its practical applications are in the focus of ICE Europe 2013. The range extends from the latest processing systems for new materials, innovative adhesives and web coating technologies, efficient solutions for paper and film converting right up to high-tech measuring and control systems,” says Nicola Hamann.

The exhibition profile of ICE Europe includes machines, accessories and systems for coating and laminating, drying/curing, treatment, slitting/rewinding, finishing and flexographic / rotogravure printing. Materials, software, retrofits, factory equipment, control / test and measurement as well as consulting and toll converting services will also be on display.

During ICE Europe 2013 a three-day technical conference will take place, organised by AIMCAL (Association of International Metallizers, Coaters and Laminators) in association with the Fraunhofer IVV Institute. The scheduled program for the conference will take place every day between 10am-12pm and topics will include web coating, laminating and printing, web handling and converting as well as adhesives and adhesion.

Visitor Information

A visitor brochure with important information about the exhibition, an exhibitor list as well as tips for travel and accommodation is now available in five languages. Visitor brochures can be ordered through the exhibition website www.ice-x.com. A comprehensive show preview including exhibitor profiles and detailed product descriptions will give a foretaste of the exhibition and is available in January 2013.

ICE Europe 2013 is open for visitors on 19 and 20 March 2013, from 9am – 5pm and on 21 March 2013 from 9am – 4pm. The price for a day-ticket on-site is 30€, the discounted online price is 20€; the price of a season ticket on-site is 45€ and reduced online for 30€. Access to ICE Europe 2013 is via the East entrance of the Munich Trade Fair Centre.

New co-located Event for the Corrugated and Folding Carton Industry

For the first time, CCE International 2013, a new trade fair for the corrugated and folding carton industries, will be co-located to ICE Europe. CCE International is presenting raw materials, machines and systems for the production and conversion of corrugated and cartonboard. This new exhibition will take place in Hall B5, directly opposite the halls for ICE Europe.

With regards to visitors, both exhibitions are set to create a strong synergy effect. For many trade visitors, both events will be of interest despite both ICE Europe and CCE International having their own specialised core audience. Both exhibitions are aimed at production specialists as well as packaging professionals and designers from a range of industry sectors such as food and beverage, pharmaceutical, cosmetics and tobacco. Entrance tickets for ICE Europe are also valid for CCE International.

www.ice-x.com

ENDS

Issued by: Susanne Neuner, PR Director

CCE International Press Office, Mack Brooks Exhibitions

Romeland House, Romeland Hill, St Albans, Herts AL3 4ET, United Kingdom

Tel: +44 (0)1727 814400, Fax: +44 (0)1727 814401, E-Mail: press@mackbrooks.co.uk

Editor’s note:

Upon request we make information and photo material of the exhibition preview available to journalists. Please send an email to: press@mackbrooks.co.uk

Photos for ICE Europe are available through the following link:

http://www.ice-x.com/europe/english/press/photos/

Crossrail Chief Executive Andrew Wolstenholme OBE, will be the keynote speaker on the third day of Railtex 2013 at Earls Court in London. His presentation on 2 May will provide show visitors with valuable insights into the progress of this major rail project which will transform travel in the capital.

Andrew Wolstenholme took up his current role in 2011, having previously served as Director of Innovation and Strategic Capability at Balfour Beatty. That followed a successful spell at BAA plc during which he served as Construction Director on the Heathrow Express Rail Link, then Programme Director on Heathrow’s £4.3 billion Terminal 5, before becoming BAA’s Director of Capital Projects. He was awarded an OBE for services to the construction industry in June 2009.

Exhibition Manager Heidi Cotsworth commented: “We are especially pleased that Andrew Wolstenholme will be speaking at Railtex. Crossrail is a crucial project for many organisations in all parts of the rail industry and its progress is watched with interest. Its completion will also provide clear proof of how all sectors of the industry can work together to successfully deliver complex schemes that enhance our national infrastructure.”

The extensive seminar programme at Railtex 2013 is being developed collaboratively by show organisers Mack Brooks Exhibitions and the Rail Engineer magazine. As at previous exhibitions, seminars will take place throughout the show, enabling visitors and exhibitors to learn more about rail policy and technological developments from industry leaders and key suppliers. Staged in the exhibition hall, sessions will be free and open to all. Already announced is a keynote presentation by Network Rail Chairman Richard Parry-Jones, CBE, on 1 May.

Extensive supporting features

Railtex is the UK’s premier rail industry event. Next year’s show, which takes place from 30 April to 2 May, will be the 11^th in a highly successful series of exhibitions and will incorporate the most extensive ever range of supporting features. In the exhibition itself, these will include The Yard, a newly introduced display area for larger items of rail plant, and the On Track Display for rail-mounted machinery and tools.

Providing additional industry insights alongside the seminar programme will be The Platform, where for the first time Railtex in partnership with Rail Champions will host an interactive discussion forum on topical themes with panels of industry experts. In the Project Update Theatre, project directors will outline the status of major UK rail schemes. And new at the 2013 event will be the Railtex Awards, celebrating the achievements of companies taking part in the exhibition.

More details can be found at www.railtex.co.uk including the latest list of exhibitors.

Railtex 2013 is organised by Mack Brooks Exhibitions (www.mackbrooks.com), which also runs the Infrarail series of rail infrastructure events in the UK. The company’s rail technology exhibitions also include EXPO Ferroviaria in Italy, Exporail in Russia, Exporail India and SIFER in France.

-ENDS-

For further press information on Railtex 2013 contact:

Ken Harris
Tel: (+44) (0) 1273 300 434
Email: ken.harris@mackbrooks.co.uk

For general enquiries contact:

Heidi Cotsworth or Lisa Sinnott
Tel: (+44) (0) 1727 814 400
Fax: (+44) (0) 1727 814 401
Email: railtex@mackbrooks.co.uk

Railtex 2013

Railtex is the all-encompassing showcase for technological innovation across all sectors of the rail supply market. Against a backdrop of continuing investment in rail and significant ongoing projects, Railtex provides a timely opportunity for companies serving the rail market to highlight their capabilities and showcase their products and services.

www.railtex.co.uk

Ready to tap into South East Asia’s growth

Mack Brooks Exhibitions has announced that Fastener Fair Thailand 2013 will take place at the Bangkok International Trade and Exhibition Centre (BITEC) from 9-11 October. It will be the second edition of Fastener Fair in Thailand after the widely acknowledged success of the show’s debut on 6-8 September this year.

Fastener Fair Thailand 2013 is the latest in the series of new Fastener Fairs, targeting key emerging markets outside Europe, joining Fastener Fair India, Fastener Fair Russia, Fastener Fair Brazil, and Fastener Fair China.

Fastener Fair Thailand 2013 will provide an ideal platform for both local and international distributors and manufacturers aiming to establish successful business relations both with customers (for fastener and fixing systems) and with local agents or partners across the South East Asian region. The show will attract both trade visitors and end-users, keen to source superior products and also find new fastening and fixing solutions.

In addition to Thailand’s position as a gateway to South East Asia, the growing economy is built on a progressive manufacturing sector with particular strengths in automotive and electronics production. This presents exciting opportunities for fastener suppliers looking to strengthen their position or establish a foothold in the vibrant South East Asia region.

In 2013 the economy (GDP) in Thailand is forecast to grow by 5.5-6%. The major export sectors for Thailand are in the automotive market, representing 9.4% (1^st half of 2012), and computers and electronics parts, accounting for 8.7% of exports. Fasteners play a vital role in these industries and Fastener Fair Thailand will meet their demands for fastening and fixing solutions.

Exhibition Director, Michael Wilton comments: “The second edition of Fastener Fair Thailand will once again provide manufacturers and suppliers of fastener and fixing solutions with the opportunity to trade, discuss and further develop their network of clients, distributors and users within the South East Asian region”.

The first edition of the show saw more than 2,400 visitors including trade professionals, distributors and end-users from 47 countries across the world, together with over 130 exhibiting companies comprising fastener manufacturers, suppliers, distributors and firms offering fastener manufacturing technology.

Michael Wilton continued: “After very encouraging feedback from both exhibitors and visitors at the first show, the second edition has already received support from the Thailand Auto Parts Manufacturing Association (TAPMA) as well as from the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau. We are excited about how the Thai manufacturing industries are embracing the show and recognising the need and importance of an event entirely dedicated to fastener and fixing technology.”

Looking forward to the 2013 edition of Fastener Fair Thailand, Khun Achana Limpaitoon, President of TAPMA remarked: “TAPMA found the exhibition very useful for the auto parts makers as well as the automotive parts industry as a whole”. The automotive sector, a major user of fasteners, was well represented at Fastener Fair Thailand with 22% of visitors either automotive (and parts) manufacturers or direct suppliers to the auto sector.

The event is part of the Fastener Fair series of Mack Brooks Exhibitions targeted trade fairs for the fastener and fixings industry which include Fastener Fair Hanover, Fastener Fair India, Fastener Fair China, Fastener Fair Russia, Fastener Fair Brazil and the flagship event, Fastener Fair Stuttgart, Europe’s leading international trade fair for this industry sector.

For companies interested in exhibiting at the event, stands are now available and are allocated on a ‘first come, first served basis’. For more details please visit our website – www.fastenerfair-thailand.com.

For more information please contact;

Emma Preston
Fastener Fair Thailand,
Mack Brooks Exhibitions Ltd, Romeland House, Romeland Hill, St Albans, Herts AL3 4ET, United Kingdom
+44(0)1727 814400

Email: emma.preston@mackbrooks.co.uk

From 19 – 21 March 2013 the first CCE International, Exhibition for the Corrugated and Folding Carton Industries, will be held at the Munich Trade Fair Centre, in Munich, Germany. Raw material manufacturers and suppliers of machines, accessories and services for the corrugated and cartonboard industries will put a wide range of innovative products and solutions on display.

The exhibition profile of CCE International covers raw materials, corrugated equipment, corrugated converting equipment, folding carton converting equipment, printing equipment, pre-production and pre-press, materials handling and warehousing, waste extraction and baling as well as machine and plant controls.

Four months ahead of the exhibition a total of 75 exhibitors from 14 countries have booked a net exhibition space of 4,000 m². “For a launch event this is a substantial size. The positive feedback from exhibiting companies proves that there is a definite demand for a specialised trade exhibition for the corrugated and folding carton industries in Europe. We are delighted to be able to report that so many companies have booked large exhibition stands for live demonstrations of their machines and equipment; as this is what the visitors expect to see at such a show,” says Nicola Hamann, Exhibition Director CCE International, on behalf of the organisers, Mack Brooks Exhibitions.

The products and services presented at CCE International 2013 are targeted to corrugated and folding carton manufacturers and converters, rigid carton and honeycomb board manufacturers, core board and core tube manufacturers as well as packaging designers and specifiers.

CCE International will be co-located with ICE Europe 2013, the leading trade exhibition for the paper, film and foil converting industry. Both exhibitions can be accessed via entrance East of the Munich Trade Fair Centre. ICE Europe 2013 will be held in halls A5 and A6; and CCE International will occupy hall B6, directly opposite. The entry tickets are valid for both shows.

“We have decided to organise CCE International at the same time and place as ICE Europe, as we expect that there will be a strong synergy effect with regards to the visitors. While both shows have their individual core audience, there will be a large number of visitors who will be interested in both shows. ICE and CCE attract a variety of production specialists and packaging designers across industry sectors such as food and beverage, pharmaceutical, cosmetics and tobacco. Converters and packaging professionals will therefore be able to experience sustainable packaging trends first-hand at this industry highlight held in March 2013 in Munich,” says Nicola Hamann.

A visitor brochure including key facts about the show, an exhibitor list and information about travel and accommodation is now available in several languages. The leaflet can be ordered via the exhibition website www.cce-international.com. A detailed Exhibition Preview with exhibitor profiles and product descriptions will be available in January 2013.

CCE International is open on 19 and 20 March 2013, from 9.00 – 17.00hrs, and on 21 March 2013 from 9.00 – 16.00hrs. Tickets can be purchased on-site and online. The day ticket price on-site is 30€, the reduced online price is 20€; the season ticket price on-site is 45€, online 30€.

www.cce-international.com

ENDS

Issued by: Susanne Neuner, PR Director
CCE International Press Office, Mack Brooks Exhibitions
Romeland House, Romeland Hill, St Albans, Herts AL3 4ET, United Kingdom
Tel: +44 (0)1727 814400, Fax: +44 (0)1727 814401, E-Mail: press@mackbrooks.co.uk

The number of rail and tunnel industry professionals visiting this year’s EXPO Ferroviaria and INTERtunnel exhibitions in Turin rose again compared with the previous event in 2010. A total of 7,600 visitors from 42 countries attended the two events, which took place at the city’s Lingotto Fiere exhibition centre from 27 to 29 March. And while Italy was very strongly represented, Brazil, Canada, China, Iran, Japan, Morocco, Russia, Turkey and USA are also among the countries from which visitors came.

The wide range of managers, engineers and buyers attending EXPO Ferroviaria 2012 reflected the vital role that Italy’s only dedicated rail industry exhibition plays in showcasing the latest products and technologies. Visitors included representatives of Italy’s rail infrastructure authority RFI, and of the national train operator Trenitalia as well as from principal regional railways such as Trenord and private operators like NTV and Veolia Transdev.

Also attending were visitors from foreign railways, including SBB Cargo, FFS Infrastructure, SNCF, DB Schenker – plus a delegation from Vietnamese Railways. Representatives of leading supplier companies were also significant for exhibitors. Among visitors from this sector were Balfour Beatty Rail, Italferr and Lucchini.

Organisations visiting INTERtunnel 2012 included Italian national highways agency ANAS, representatives of the LTF Lyon Turin Ferroviaire and BBT Brenner Base Tunnel projects, plus senior staff from supplier companies such as Atlas Copco, CIPA and Impregilo.

The total number of exhibitors at the combined event was 371 – leading suppliers in both sectors presenting the very latest products and systems. And around 80 companies have already booked a stand for the next editions in 2014, showing the high level of satisfaction amongst exhibitors.

Taking part in the formal opening of the two shows were senior figures from Italy’s transport industry and political establishment. They included Mr Piero Fassino, Mayor of Turin, Mr Mauro Moretti, CEO of Ferrovie dello Stato Italiane, Ms Barbara Bonino, Transport, Infrastructure, Mobility and Logistics Councillor, Piedmont Region, Giancarlo Guiati, Sole Administrator, Infra.To, and Francesco Brizio, Chairman of GTT Turin Transport Group.

Playing a key role in the success of the combined event were its exhibition partners. The Italian College of Railway Engineers (CIFI) and the Italian Tunnelling Society both organised conferences that drew appreciative audiences. There was also a workshop organised by the Italian Association for Trenchless Technology (IATT) and a seminar by the Italian Association for Special Foundations (AIF) and the Italian Association for Geognostic Research (ANISIG).  In addition, technical site visits were arranged by Alstom to its Savigliano train building plant and by GTT to its facilities in Turin, including its showcase automated metro system.

The next shows in this series – the sixth EXPO Ferroviaria will take place 1-3 April 2014.

New initiative to highlight opportunities in the rail industry

In a development intended to introduce engineering students and graduates to opportunities in the rail industry, Railtex ‘13 in cooperation with leading organisations in the sector will host a dedicated careers event during next year’s exhibition.

The programme – Rail – The Next Generation – will provide participants with a tour of the exhibition, including meetings with companies that have agreed to discuss their activities and possible career paths, hands-on demonstrations of technical equipment, and seminars on rail industry innovation and research opportunities.

Running throughout the final day of Railtex, 2^nd May, the programme is supported by the National Skills Academy for Railway Engineering (NSARE) and Young Railway Professionals (YRP), and has been widely welcomed by the industry. Among exhibitors that have already confirmed their participation are Invensys Rail, Rittal, Schneider Electric, Signalling Solutions, telent and Topcon.

Exhibition Manager Heidi Cotsworth commented: "This initiative is set against a recognised need to bridge the skills gap in the rail industry – to provide the skills and knowledge that is vital to deliver the rail system that the country needs. With such a large number of companies who cover a broad range of engineering disciplines, Railtex will offer graduates and students a unique opportunity to learn more about the rail industry, the skills it needs as well as the fantastic career progression opportunities.”

Gil Howarth, Chief Executive of NSARE says; “At a time of unprecedented investment in the railways, the  industry needs to recruit 10.000 railway engineering apprentices, technicians and graduates over the next 5 years.  The exhibition will showcase exciting career opportunities with companies which are at the forefront of technological advancement.”

Paul Cooper, Chairman of the Young Railway Professionals says, "The Rail Industry needs to recruit and train a new generation of young people if it is to support the development, expansion and maintenance of a first-class, cost effective, 21st Century railway. One of the key ambitions of the Young Railway Professionals is to open the eyes of young people to the career opportunities available in rail. The YRP is therefore pleased to support, via its Railway Ambassadors, the Next Generation initiative at Railtex 2013."

Rail – The Next Generation at Railtex is free to join but places are extremely limited. Enquiries should be sent to Heidi.cotsworth@mackbrooks.co.uk

There will also be a ‘Recruitment Wall’ where exhibitors will advertise their current skills needs, plus an informal networking opportunity at which those taking part will be able to meet other young people considering a career in the rail industry.

More than 400 companies will be exhibiting at Railtex ‘13, which takes place at Earls Court 2 in London from 30^th April to 2^nd May. It is the UK’s leading rail event, with participants ranging from major international firms to SMEs providing highly specialised products and services. There will also be an extensive range of additional features.

The show is organised by Mack Brooks Exhibitions (www.mackbrooks.com), which also runs the Infrarail series of rail infrastructure events in the UK. Internationally, the company’s rail technology exhibitions include EXPO Ferroviaria in Italy, Exporail in Russia, Exporail India and SIFER in France.

For more information on NSARE visit www.nsare.org

For more information on YRP visit www.youngrailwayprofessionals.org

-ENDS-

For further press information on Railtex ‘13 contact:

Ken Harris
Tel: (+44) (0) 1273 300 434
Email: ken.harris@mackbrooks.co.uk

For general enquiries contact:

Heidi Cotsworth or Lisa Sinnott
Tel: (+44) (0) 1727 814 400
Fax: (+44) (0) 1727 814 401

Network Rail Chairman Professor Richard Parry-Jones, CBE will be a keynote speaker during Railtex 2013 at Earls Court in London. His presentation on the second day of the event, 1 May, will be a highlight of an extensive seminar programme being developed in a collaboration between show organisers Mack Brooks Exhibitions and the Rail Engineer magazine.

Appointed to his present role in March this year, Professor Parry-Jones brings to the rail industry his extensive experience in the engineering sector. After joining the Ford Motor Company as an apprentice, he rose to become Group Vice President Global Product Development and Group Chief Technical Officer. Currently he is a senior independent director of GKN plc and Cosworth Group Holdings, as well as council member of the Royal Academy of Engineering and of Bangor University. In addition, he is pro-chancellor of Loughborough University and a visiting professor in the Faculty of Engineering. He also co-chairs the UK Automotive Council and is a fellow of the Royal Academy of Engineering, the Institution of Mechanical Engineers and the Royal Society of Statistical Science.

Professor Parry-Jones said: “I am keenly anticipating the opportunity to speak at Railtex 2013. The full support of our supply chain is vital in enabling our delivery of the better railway that is key to Britain’s future. Our relationship with our suppliers is improving all the time and, at Railtex, I am looking forward to exploring the contribution the industry as a whole can make to helping us deliver our plans for the rest of this decade and beyond, and how we can work together to harness the opportunities that further technological innovation can bring to what is a vital national industry.”

Exhibition Manager Heidi Cotsworth commented: “We are delighted that Professor Parry-Jones has agreed to speak during Railtex. Network Rail’s projects and programmes are crucial to the supply industry, especially so given current levels of investment in rail. I’m sure he will provide his audience with valuable insights into the company’s future direction and plans.”

As at previous Railtex and Infrarail exhibitions, seminars will run throughout next year’s show, enabling visitors and exhibitors to learn more about rail policy and technological developments from industry leaders and key suppliers. Staged in the exhibition hall, sessions will be free and open to all. More keynote speakers will be named soon.

Railtex is the UK’s premier rail industry event. Next year’s show, which takes place from 30 April to 2 May, will be the 11^th in a highly successful series of exhibitions. Features will include The Yard, a display area for larger items of rail plant, and the On Track Display for rail-mounted machinery and tools. And new at Railtex 2013 will be the Railtex Awards, celebrating the achievements of companies taking part in the show.

More details can be found at www.railtex.co.uk including the latest list of exhibitors.

Railtex 2013 is organised by Mack Brooks Exhibitions (www.mackbrooks.co.uk), which also runs the Infrarail series of rail infrastructure events in the UK. The company’s rail technology exhibitions also include EXPO Ferroviaria in Italy, Exporail in Russia, Exporail India and SIFER in France.

-ENDS-

For further press information on Railtex 2013 contact:

Ken Harris
Tel: (+44) (0) 1273 300 434
Email: ken.harris@mackbrooks.co.uk

For general enquiries contact:

Heidi Cotsworth or Lisa Sinnott
Tel: (+44) (0) 1727 814 400
Fax: (+44) (0) 1727 814 401
Email: railtex@mackbrooks.co.uk

Notes to Editors

Railtex 2013

Railtex is the all-encompassing showcase for technological innovation across all sectors of the rail supply market. Against a backdrop of continuing investment in rail and significant ongoing projects, Railtex provides a timely opportunity for companies serving the rail market to highlight their capabilities and showcase their products and services.

www.railtex.co.uk

After five successful exhibition days at the Hanover exhibition grounds, EuroBLECH 2012, the 22nd International Sheet Metal Working Technology Exhibition, closed its doors on Saturday, 27 October 2012. On a net exhibition space of 84,000 square metres, a total of 1,520 exhibitors from 39 countries presented a top-class range of innovative products for the complete sheet metal working chain. With 60,500 trade visitors from all over the world, the number of visitors at EuroBLECH 2012 equals the visitor number of the previous exhibition, while the number of exhibitors at this year’s show had grown by 5% and the floor space by 7%.

The first analysis of the visitor survey showed a significant shift towards highly qualified trade visitors. Some 75% of the visitors came from the industry, and the percentage of visitors from companies with more than 500 employees has increased by 20%. There were, once again, more visitors from the top management, and 40% of all visitors came to EuroBLECH 2012 with the definite intention of buying.

“A first analysis of the exhibitor survey shows that exhibiting companies were highly satisfied with the outcome of the exhibition, even though the current economic situation remains uncertain. However, German exhibitors assessed the business climate as much more favourable than companies from outside Germany,” says Nicola Hamann, Exhibition Director EuroBLECH, on behalf of the organisers, Mack Brooks Exhibitions.

The exhibitor survey shows that the main reason for exhibiting at EuroBLECH 2012 was to approach new markets, attracting new customers and product presentation; and exhibiting companies have achieved these objectives. Against the background of the prevailing business climate, they were extremely positive about their participation at the show. EuroBLECH 2012 received excellent values from exhibitors and visitors alike, in particular for the large number of innovations presented at the show and for its high internationality.

Almost half of the exhibitors (48%) and 36% of the visitors at this year’s EuroBLECH came from outside Germany. Most important exhibitor countries, after Germany, were Italy, Turkey, China, the Netherlands, Switzerland, Austria, France and the USA. Top visitor countries from outside Germany were Austria, the Netherlands, Sweden, Switzerland, Great Britain, Italy, Denmark, the Czech Republic, Poland and India.

Some 70% of the exhibitors have indicated on site that they intended to exhibit again at the next exhibition. EuroBLECH 2014 will take place from 21 – 25 October 2014 at the Hanover exhibition grounds.

Next year, Mack Brooks Exhibitions will organise, once again, dedicated sheet metal working exhibitions in selected growth markets. BLECH Russia 2013 will be held from 12 - 14 March 2013 in St. Petersburg; BLECH India 2013, from 17- 20 April 2013 in Mumbai and BLECH China 2013, from 14 - 16 May 2013 in Suzhou.

www.euroblech.com

www.blechevents.com

Issued by: Susanne Neuner, PR Director

EuroBLECH Press Office, Mack Brooks Exhibitions Ltd

Romeland House, Romeland Hill, St Albans, Herts AL3 4ET, United Kingdom

Tel: +44 (0)1727 814400, Fax: +44 (0)1727 814401, Email: press@mackbrooks.co.uk

Hannover 2014 will be the stage to showcase the potential of print technology in manufacturing applications

Event organizers, FM Brooks, have announced updated details for the inaugural InPrint tradeshow, an event focusing on innovation for industrial and manufacturing print production. Originally scheduled to take place in Cologne, Germany in November next year, InPrint will now run from 8^th -10^th April 2014 at the Deutsche Messe, Hannover, Germany.

Underscoring its strong value proposition to manufacturers, InPrint 2014 will be co-located with the Hannover Messe, familiarly known as the Hannover Fair, which is widely acknowledged as the world’s largest and most important industrial and manufacturing technology tradeshow.

The world’s first event of its kind totally dedicated to showcasing industrial print technologies, InPrint 2014 will demonstrate the myriad opportunities available from incorporating inkjet screen and specialist printing technologies, such as 3D, to an increasingly innovative sphere of manufacturing applications, from functional, technical print, to surface imaging for decorative projects.

InPrint will focus leaders, inkjet developers, technical print specialists, print production companies and most importantly industrial manufacturers on innovation and future print and prototyping technologies for applications across a virtually endless variety of sectors. These include such diverse vertical markets as aeronautical, automotive, food & beverage, interior decor and pharmaceutical, as well as many others.

“Ongoing research among inkjet and screen printing manufacturers confirms the need for a dedicated event that unleashes the exciting and innovative capabilities of print technology across a number of industries,” says Frazer Chesterman, Director, FM Brooks. “We are delighted to be establishing such an event, but the fact we are co-locating with the Hannover Fair gives visitors to InPrint 2014 an additional reason to attend and adds significant impetus to our proposition.”

Early support from key players

“Even at this early stage, InPrint 2014 is attracting the interest of major technology manufacturers, each recognising the event’s potential as a platform to share knowledge, as well as generate interest and drive investment in future print and prototyping technologies,” adds Marcus Timson, Co-Director, FM Brooks.

These include Mark Alexander, marketing director at world-leading inkjet technology developer, Xaar, who says, “Since 1990, Xaar has been continually investing in R&D to develop industrial inkjet printheads that open up new possibilities for applications and new areas of business opportunities. An event that showcases the innovative potential of inkjet for a variety of manufacturing applications is an exciting concept and Xaar welcomes the launch of InPrint 2014.”

The same sentiments are echoed by Bill Baxter, CEO of global inkjet pioneers, Inca Digital. “The potential for inkjet in manufacturing goes way beyond sign and graphics, transactional printing, short-run books and ceramics; and there is very real demand today from a variety of customers in packaging, decor, floor- and wall-coverings and many other applications”, he says.

Peter Buttiens, CEO of ESMA, the European specialist printing manufacturers’ association, adds, “ESMA has long been promoting technical and functional printing and ESMA members have a particular expertise and passion for innovation in industrial print - from screen printing through to inkjet and other print processes. InPrint is a good idea as we see it acting as a unique bridge for print into the manufacturing sector.”

FM Brooks is part of the Mack Brooks Exhibitions Group, one of Europe's largest independently owned industrial exhibition businesses. The company specialises in running events within niche industrial sectors from the giant sheet metal exhibition EuroBlech; to the converting show, ICE; and the sustainability in print-focussed, EcoPrint.

ENDS

About FM Brooks

Part of the Mack Brooks Exhibitions Group, FM Brooks is an event business run by Frazer

Chesterman and Marcus Timson that will launch new events that challenge, connect and inspire new business. FM Brooks will produce events and exhibitions for visionaries, leaders, innovators and early adopters through a collaborative model, producing unique content, an inspiring experience and measurable results for all participants.

The Mack Brooks Exhibitions Group is a leading, privately owned organiser of global exhibitions throughout the world in engineering, transport, metalworking, information technology, textiles, food and beverages, railways, construction, tunnelling, printing, converting, airport management and aviation.

For more information on InPrint 2014, please visit www.inprintlive.com or contact:

Frazer Chesterman                                                 Marcus Timson

Director, FM Brooks                                                Director, FM Brooks

Tel: +44 (0)1372 370892                                          Tel: +44 (0)1372 370 854

Email: frazer.chesterman@mackbrooks.com Email: marcus.timson@mackbrooks.com

The launch event of EcoPrint 2012, the world’s first exhibition dedicated to sustainable print, held in Berlin 26-27 September, has been declared a success by the organisers, visitors, exhibitors and EcoPrint Ambassadors.

There can be no doubt that there exists a strong appetite for knowledge and insight relating to sustainable print throughout the supply chain. Following the successful launch, EcoPrint is now well positioned to continue its concerted effort to raise the profile of print for those in the creative community while working to help make print a sustainable business to be in.

The evidence for this was illustrated by the packed-out seminar theatres and conference spaces and the diversity of the nearly 2,000 people that came through the doors over the two days. Feedback from exhibitors is that the quality of conversations was excellent, with many highlighting a number of serious, strategic business discussions with senior representatives who have the power to implement change at their organisations.

EcoPrint 2012 attracted leaders from throughout the supply chain - such as brand owners, agencies, printers and manufacturers - and from all over the world, including Australia, Europe, Middle East, US, UK and Asia, truly capturing the imaginations of those with a strategic interest in sustainability.

The breakdown of visitors was 15% brands and agencies, 55% Print Service Providers with the remaining visitors from Print Press, Marketing & Business Media, Manufacturers, Consultants and Specialists.  These were drawn from 37 different countries and from the world’s top print businesses, brands and agencies including: Volkswagen, Deutsche Post, DHL, Lego, Estee Lauder, Toyota, Coca Cola, IKEA, Bertelsmann, Thyssen Krupp, Scandic, Dusseldorf Airport, Imperial Tobacco, TBWA, DDB Realisation, BBDO Proximity, Dan Pearlman, Create Berlin, Triad and Art Directors Club among others.

Frazer Chesterman, Co-Director, EcoPrint: “During a Drupa year, it was clear that launching a new event concept would be challenging for the market as well as for us as exhibition organisers. However, the successful launch of EcoPrint proved there is a need for high quality information and insight in sustainability for the print and creative communities. The popularity of the conference sessions absolutely exceeded expectations and the international brands and visitors who made the effort to attend EcoPrint 2012 provided genuine input in seminars, sessions and discussions. Visitors attended from 37 different countries, demonstrating that the appetite for sustainability is strong, globally, and this also gave exhibitors and printers present an opportunity to look outside of the industry and consider their businesses in a global context.”

Co-Director, Marcus Timson continues: “EcoPrint broadly established a new concept – an event dedicated to sustainability - and validated the fact that a focus on sustainability is needed in our industry. This was particularly clear from the standing-room-only conferences and seminars where the emphasis on sharing knowledge couldn’t have been clearer.”

Two themes prevalent throughout the show were eco-standards/labels and price versus sustainability. Despite their proliferation being a headache for printers, many felt well researched and fully-consulted upon labels might still have a place in our industry; helping to establish criteria for printers to follow in order to align with buyer’s requirements and helping buyers establish fact from fiction. Meanwhile, it was clear from the various price-versus-sustainability debates that although pre-occupation with price can turn buyers away from sustainable print at present, huge market share awaits the printer/manufacturer that can achieve price parity or near parity, with the potential rewards justifying the research.

Having injected fresh impetus into the sustainability in print debate, the EcoPrint team is keen to maintain the momentum and last week also revealed details of EcoPrint 2013. Next year, the show will return to Berlin, co-locating with the WAN IFRA ‘World Publishing Expo’ at the Berlin Messe, 8-9 October. It will feature even more opportunities for networking with a new, higher-profile venue and improved visitor experience.

Concludes Chesterman: “Sustainability is a journey and EcoPrint 2012 has re-invigorated the sustainability debate in our industry – given it fresh focus and renewed momentum, and we now have a rare opportunity to promote print’s enviable sustainable performance to our own community of leaders as well as specifiers, agencies and brands. We are, as Michael Braungart said, “ a forming community” and I’m looking ahead now to EcoPrint 2013 with a great deal of positivity and excitement as we begin to evolve the event in line with feedback gathered from our experience last week.”

Drawing upon the considerable high quality insight from EcoPrint 2012 – an EcoPrint Report will be published in November to out on record for the sustainable print community the themes, discussions and visions emanating from EcoPrint 2012.

What exhibitors, visitors and speakers said about EcoPrint:

Per-Ola Nilsson Technical Support, Print & Paper, IKEA Sweden enthuses: “The atmosphere at EcoPrint 2012 was great – the venue was really nice and, most importantly, the right size. I attended with a colleague who is new to the business who learned a great deal, both during the conferences and seminars as well as networking with people at the show. FM Brooks deserves our congratulations for the fantastic job in pulling this show together. The first year is the biggest challenge but the concept and theme worked – it’s clear that sustainability is on the agenda of the biggest players and is quite simply a ‘must’ for anyone wishing to work with them.

“Generally in this industry I feel we spend too much time talking to each other when we should be explaining how great a material and how environmentally neutral paper is to key audiences and the general public instead. Today I think we have a lot of misunderstanding and a lack of knowledge about sustainability in print but I hope that, moving forward, EcoPrint will start to encourage us to do exactly this, with the whole supply chain working together to form a strong message and educate people.”

Steve Wicks, Director, GreenPrint (Visitor, UK Based Print Manager): “As a company that combines green working practices and print management EcoPrint was an un-missable event for us. The seminar content was outstanding – Professor Braungart’s presentation set the tone for the entire event when he asked printers to look outside of print itself and consider their businesses in a global context, beyond just what they do with their presses. The whole experience was refreshing and totally different to any industry event I’ve attended before – there was more time to listen to experts in their field, a convivial networking atmosphere and I connected with people I would not normally meet.”

Thomas Fleckenstein, Director, Lokay (Visitor, German printer): “The first EcoPrint impressed me. The range of exhibitors was from offset to wide format digital printing technology. Indeed, for EcoPrint 2013, I would like to see more offset technology. However the presentations and talks were varied and inspiring and the event was professionally organized offering versatile environmentally friendly technologies and excellent speakers. I think EcoPrint will become the main forum for environmentally friendly printing, an event where new connections are made and opportunity is generated.”

Stephen Goddard, Environmental Leadership Program Manager for HP’s Graphic Solutions Business (Exhibitor): “EcoPrint really was a forum for sustainability leaders from across the printing industry value chain and we very much appreciated the opportunity to engage directly with those involved in sourcing print for major brands and retailers. Importantly, EcoPrint allowed us to better understand their print sustainability perspectives and emerging requirements, while demonstrating the advances HP continues to make in improving the sustainability profile of print.”

Graham Moore, Director, Production Printing Business Group, Ricoh Europe (Exhibitor): “At EcoPrint, Ricoh met a broad spread of visitors with whom we shared our experiences of turning sustainable practices – such as our Reduce, Recycle and Reuse approach – into profitable business. Many visitors came eager to learn, and it was good to see the conference programme speaker sessions so well attended and packed with high-level content and good interactive debate. No one who attended EcoPrint can be left in any doubt that the environmental agenda has moved on from a case of ‘if’ to ‘when’.

"In that sense, as Ricoh achieves leadership status, it feels a powerful responsibility to inspire and support our industry and customers to become more sustainable. There was tremendous interest at EcoPrint in our new Pro L4000 large format printer, and our GreenLine re-manufacturing initiative and Carbon Balanced Printing Programme really captured people's imagination. For Ricoh, EcoPrint proved to be a very worthwhile platform and focal point for the vital issue of sustainability in print and beyond."

Mike Horsten, Marketing Manager, Mimaki Europe (Exhibitor): “EcoPrint was a fabulous sustainability networking event, with many different opinions on the issue put forward by visitors and other exhibitors, both positive and negative. EcoPrint succeeded in gathering representatives from the entire supply chain, which gave us a valuable opportunity to show our sustainability roadmap to agencies, designers, brand owners and, of course, printers. I have no doubt the insight gained from EcoPrint’s broad visitor base will prove essential as we continue our work to define and address the sustainability issues that our customers need to clarify to their own customers.”

-ENDS-

About FM Brooks

FM Brooks is part of the Mack Brooks Exhibitions Group. It is an event business run by Frazer Chesterman and Marcus Timson that will launch new events that challenge, connect and inspire new business. FM Brooks will produce events and exhibitions for visionaries, leaders, innovators and early adopters through a collaborative model, producing unique content, an inspiring experience and measurable results for all participants.

The Mack Brooks Exhibitions Group is a leading, privately owned organiser of global exhibitions throughout the world in engineering, transport, metalworking, information technology, textiles, food and beverages, railways, construction, tunnelling, printing, converting, airport management and aviation.

www.mackbrooks.com

EcoPrint media contacts:

David Jamieson
Senior Account Manager
amplifier

T: 0845 0177522

E: david@amplifiergroup.com

W: www.amplifiergroup.com

With 1,520 exhibitors from 39 countries and a total of 84,000 m² net exhibition space, this year’s EuroBLECH, held from 23 – 27 October 2012 at the Hanover Exhibition Centre, is set to be record breaking. The event has increased by 5% in exhibitor numbers and by 7% in exhibition space compared to the previous exhibition held in 2010.

EuroBLECH is renowned as an industry barometer and the leading trade show for technological advance in sheet metal working. After the difficult times the industry sector had to face some years ago, companies at this year’s exhibition appear confident and optimistic. “Many exhibitors at EuroBLECH 2012 have increased their stand space and have more sumptuous stands than ever. They showcase an enormous variety of new products and innovative solutions, more than ever before. Visitors can look forward to a wonderland of sheet metal working technology,” says Nicola Hamann, Exhibition Director EuroBLECH, on behalf of the organisers, Mack Brooks Exhibitions.

With this year’s theme ‘For a sustainable future’, EuroBLECH puts a special focus on energy efficient technology, environmentally friendly manufacturing processes and intelligent use of material. The wide range of materials, machines, systems and tools on display reflect the complete technology chain of sheet metal working, from sheet metal and sheet metal products to handling, forming, cutting, joining, flexible sheet metal working, tube processing, process control, CAD/CAM systems and surface technology. A great number of exhibiting research institutions complement the event by presenting the latest research projects and providing the necessary foundations for technological development.

Increasing global business of the sheet metal working industry means that the percentage of international exhibitors at the industry sector’s leading trade exhibition is higher than ever: 48% of the exhibitors at EuroBLECH 2012 come from outside Germany. Most important exhibitor countries after Germany are Italy, Turkey, China, the Netherlands, Switzerland, Austria, France and the USA.

“Companies in the sheet metal working industry have to position themselves in a global business environment in order to profit from new opportunities,” says Nicola Hamann. “Markets have shifted, and while demand in Europe and the USA remains static, there are new growth markets in Asia and South America. This means that companies have to react flexibly to fluctuations in markets and demand with modern, competitive and high quality products in order to maintain their market position. Especially in challenging times like these, EuroBLECH, as the leading industry platform for sheet metal working brings together suppliers and trade visitors from all over the world, ready to invest.”

EuroBLECH 2012 is open from Tuesday, 23 October to Friday, 26 October 2012, from 09:00 - 18:00 and on Saturday, 27 October 2012, from 09:00 - 15:00. Visitors who buy their tickets in advance from the online ticket shop at www.euroblech.com will save money and time on-site. The day ticket entry price on-site is €32; visitors who buy online pay €26. The season ticket price on-site is €52, online it is €46.

Up-to-date information on the exhibition is available at www.euroblech.com or, for smart phone users, at www.eb2go.de. A free iPhone App is also available for download.

Issued by: Susanne Neuner, PR Director

EuroBLECH Press Office, Mack Brooks Exhibitions

Romeland House, Romeland Hill, St Albans, Herts AL3 4ET, United Kingdom

Tel: +44 (0)1727 814400, Fax: +44 (0)1727 814401, E-Mail: press@mackbrooks.co.uk

Contact on-site in Hanover:

Susanne Neuner

EuroBLECH Press office, Mack Brooks Exhibitions Ltd

Presse Centre Hanover Exhibition Grounds

Mobile: +49 (0)151/11467910

Email: susanne.neuner@mackbrooks.co.uk

Technical and economic forum planned for Stuttgart event

The Institute of Spring Technology (IST), the Independent Centre of Excellence for Spring Technology, has announced its intention to support the SpringsTec Fair in 2013.

General Manager of the Institute, Mr Les Peel, commented: “The Institute of Spring Technology is very pleased to lend its support to the upcoming SpringsTec Fair. The concept of a clearly focused event for the international springs industry, based in Europe’s industrial heartland, is a strong one.  We look forward to being a part of this important exhibition for the springs sector and meeting with colleagues from around the world”.

SpringsTec Fair takes place at Messe Stuttgart, Germany, from 26^th until 28^th of February next year and is the only European exhibition to be wholly focused on industrial springs, springs parts technology and sourcing. As such, it presents a unique opportunity for industry professionals to meet and showcase their latest developments and innovations. A glance at the ever increasing exhibitor list already shows that this will be a very international meeting point for the industry.

Organiser Mack Brooks Exhibitions, renowned for leading international events such as Fastener Fair Stuttgart, Fastener Fair Hannover, InterAirport Europe (Munich) and EuroBlech (Hannover), is currently working with supporting trade bodies to finalise a programme of seminars to take place during the show. Designed in close collaboration with the Institute of Spring Technology and other Steering Group members, these seminars will focus on current industry issues, both technical and economic, offering visitors and exhibitors a common platform to cross-fertilise best practice, market information and discuss future challenges for the springs and related engineering sectors.

To find out more about exhibiting at or visiting this important event, please visit our website www.springstecfair.com or contact Kirsten Whitehouse on email kirsten.whitehouse@mackbrooks.co.uk or telephone +44 (0) 1727 814400.

You can also contact the IST at ist@ist.org.uk if you wish to know more about the Institute’s activities, products and services. Visit them at the show; Stand A26.

Dates for Fastener Fair Thailand 2013 announced.

Over 3000 fastener and fixing professionals attended Thailand’s and South East Asia’s first event dedicated to the fastener and fixing industry held at the Bangkok International Trade and Exhibition Centre (BITEC) from 6-8 September.

The event was formally opened by the chairman of the Federation of Thai Industries – Khun Payungsak Chartsutipol, the President of the Thai Auto-parts Manufacturers Association - Khun Achana Limpaitoon and the acting president of the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau – Khun Thongchai Sridama.

The opening ceremony also preceded a series of high level seminars which supplemented the exhibition and included vital topics for the fastener industry including sessions from The Engineering Institute of Thailand, The Federation of Thai Industries and the State Railway of Thailand.

Approximately a third of the exhibitors were from the Thai and ASEAN (Association of South East Asia Nations) region with also a strong representation from Taiwan and China. Over 130 exhibitors were represented from 11 different countries displaying products and services ranging from fastener manufacturing machines and inspection equipment to precision fasteners and bespoke anchoring solutions.

A total of 2418 professionals visited the show from 47 different countries across the world. 63% of the visitors were from Thailand alone and 70% came from the ASEAN region. When the 588 exhibitor personnel were added to the visitor figure the total attendance for the event over the 3 days reached 3006.

More than 3 quarters of the visitors represented the fastener and fixing trade with 22% of the visitors representing Thailand’s vast manufacturing and assembly, end user sectors. The visitors also reflected the regions strength in the auto (22%), electronics (13%) and construction (18%) markets. The quality of the visitors also highlighted the importance of the event which saw that 67% of visitors were of manager level or above. The remainder of the visitors were technical engineers or specifiers from end user organisations.

Exhibition Director Michael Wilton commented “We were pleased with the level of business activity we witnessed over the 3 days of the show. The hall was busy and with suppliers, manufacturers and end users for fasteners using the event to strengthen their respective business. With the backdrop of encouraging feedback from both the exhibitors and visitors at Fastener Fair Thailand, plans are already afoot for the second edition of the show in 2013”

Fastener Fair Thailand 2013 will be held at the Bangkok Trade and Exhibition Centre in the fourth quarter of 2013. Further details will be available shortly on the shows website www.fastenerfair-thailand.com . The event is part of the Fastener Fair series of Mack Brooks Exhibitions’ targeted trade fairs for the fastener and fixings industry which includes Fastener Fair Hanover, Fastener Fair India, Fastener Fair China, Fastener Fair Russia, Fastener Fair Brazil and the flagship event, Fastener Fair Stuttgart, Europe’s leading international trade fair for this industry sector.

Michael Wilton continued “ …. We would also like to thank the exhibitors at Fastener Fair Thailand for their contribution in ensuring the show was a success. I am also grateful for the support the event had received from industrial associations including the Federation of Thai Industries, the Thai Auto-Parts Manufacturing Association, the Department of Industrial Promotion, the Technology Promotion Association and the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau”

-Ends-

For further information please contact

Emma Preston

+44(0)1727 814400

emma.preston@mackbrooks.co.uk

Attendance at inter airport China 2012, which took place from 26 to 28 September at Beijing’s China International Exhibition Centre, totalled more than 3,500 industry professionals. Some 2,854 visitors attended the show as buyers and decision makers – a 41% increase compared to the previous event in 2010. And while the large majority were from China, there were a large number of important overseas visitors, including representatives from 35 countries and regions.

Also attending were 150 high-ranking VIPs responsible for policy-making and management of China’s civil aviation sector, including Mr Xia Xinghua, Vice Minister of Civil Aviation Administration of China.

This year’s highly successful event also saw both exhibitor numbers and stand space increase by over 50%, underlining the increasing global profile of the inter airport brand. In all, 106 exhibitors from 18 countries took part, compared to 88 at the previous Beijing exhibition in 2010.

A significant trend was the continued increased presence by Chinese companies. Domestic firms continued accounted for more than 65% of the floor space at the show with more large and purpose-built stands. However, international participation was also strong, including impressive national pavilions hosting leading suppliers from Germany (coordinated by the Federal Ministry of Economics and Technology) and France (UBI France).

A key innovation at this year’s exhibition was provision of the largest-ever outdoor display area, a development welcomed by exhibitors and visitors. Exhibitors of GSE equipment and vehicles had the opportunity to show outdoor products in this ‘natural environment’ – an outdoor space adjacent to the exhibition hall. It is expected that this area will grow significantly at the next edition of the show in 2014.

Feedback from many exhibitors was very positive. ITW Airport Ground Equipment Beijing and Shanghai Hangfu said: “A great show – we are very satisfied”.  Vacalex offered its view of the event: “This is a professional and niche exhibition and it can attract a lot of key customers from China and also other countries in Asia.”

Further contributing to the success of the event was the now familiar ‘Meet the Buyers’ programme, which took place during all three days of the show. These sessions provided opportunities for inter airport China participants to hear presentations by senior Chinese government and airport officials outlining details of future investment projects.

Organisations contributing to the programme included China Civil Aviation Technology and Equipment Co Ltd, Tianjing Binhan International Airport, and the Inner Mongolia Civil Aviation Airport Group as well as the Civil Aviation Administration of China. The ‘Meet the Buyers’ programme was widely welcomed by firms attending the event. Crisplant commented: “The seminars were very interesting – please continue to organise them.”

This was the fifth successful inter airport China show organised by Mack Brooks Exhibitions together with its partners in China, China Aviation Supplies Holding Co and China Civil Aviation Technology & Equipment Co Ltd (AVITEC). Planning has already begun for inter airport China 2014, dates for which will be announced soon.

Mack Brooks Exhibitions is world leader in trade shows for the airports sector. These include the long-established inter airport Europe events, the next of which takes place in Munich, Germany, in October 2013. In March 2011 the company also successfully staged its third inter airport India show in Mumbai. A fourth event in that series will take place in New Delhi in April 2013.

For more information on inter airport China 2012 contact:

Dan Wu, Exhibition Director

Tel: (+44 1727) 814 400
Fax: (+44 1727) 814 401
Email: infochina@mackbrooks.co.uk

Doris Zhang, Exhibition Manager

Tel: (+86 21) 5228 2401
Tel: (+86 21) 5228 8248
Email: doris.zhang@mackbrooks.co.uk

Or visit the show website: www.interairportchina.com

For press information on inter airport China 2012 contact:

Echo Li, Marketing Manager
Tel: (+86 21) 5228 5048
Email: echo.li@mackbrooks.co.uk

Burlington, MA, September 11, 2012 … The Pressure Sensitive Tape Council (PSTC) will present a special educational course for converting industry professionals at ICE USA 2013 in Orlando, April 9-11. They will join AIMCAL, CEMA and TAPPI Place as leading industry associations participating in the ICE USA Conference Program.

“We are delighted to welcome PSTC to the conference program as pressure sensitive tapes play such a critical role in the converting process,” said Bob Chiricosta, Show Director of ICE USA. “Their special session created for ICE USA will help converters better understand the many uses and benefits of PSA products.”

Pressure sensitive tapes are used in a wide variety of applications – from single and double coated splicing tapes used for overlap, butt, flying, and zero speed splicing applications as well as core starting, roll tabbing and securing, friction reduction, web traction and tension control, plate mounting for flexo and rotary presses, security seals or re-closable seals, screen printing, finishing, die cutting, and hot stamping to all manner of packaging and masking applications.

Chiricosta added PSCT is now part of the overall ICE USA 2013 comprehensive Conference Program that will begin on April 8 and include several valuable sessions offered by AIMCAL, CEMA and TAPPI Place.  These highly successful sessions attracted several hundred attendees to the ICE USA 2011 Conference Program.  Details of the 2013 educational sessions will be announced soon.

PSTC is the North American trade association for tape manufacturers and affiliate suppliers who are committed to making the best pressure sensitive adhesive (PSA) tape products worldwide. They are well-known for their partnership efforts with ASTM as well as their educational programs that present important skills on all facets of PSA tape design and manufacturing.

ICE USA is the largest dedicated converting event in North America with more than 300 exhibitors, and it is part of the ICE family of worldwide converting events. ICE Europe is the world’s largest dedicated converting exhibition. For more information about ICE USA or registration for the PSTC course visit www.ice-x-usa.com.

# # # #

Photos: ICE USA images are available by contacting Tim Ward at tward@h-a-intl.com or calling 312-332-4650, ext. 18.

The Civil Infrastructure & Technology Exhibition – CITE 2014 – will take place from 20-22 May 2014 at Earls Court, London.

CITE will provide the entire supply chain of the UK’s transport, construction, utilities and communications infrastructure sector with a platform to meet, discuss, learn about and progress the critical areas which have been highlighted by the Government as key areas of growth for the UK economy, and vital to enable the country to compete effectively in the modern world.

Against the backdrop of the announcement that between £40-50bn will be invested in general infrastructure, CITE 2014 will support the needs of the entire UK civil infrastructure market during this important time, providing the ideal platform for organisations and industry professionals to network and do business over three days in London.

CITE 2014 will be co-located with Infrarail 2014, the definitive and well-established UK rail infrastructure exhibition, which attracts over 5,000 industry professionals from across the entire supply chain. The 9^th edition of Infrarail was held over 3 days at the NEC in Birmingham in May this year, where over 200 exhibitors displayed their product innovations and service solutions for the market. The show was opened by the Rt Hon Theresa Villiers MP, Minister of State for Transport, and Jeremy Candfield, Director General of the Railway Industry Association.

From roads to ports, electricity generation to mobile & broadband technology and coverage, infrastructure projects for the UK are high on the agenda.  Developments in infrastructure are the crucial backbone of a modern economy and are also a major determinant of growth and productivity.

Organiser Mack Brooks Exhibitions Ltd runs successful infrastructure events throughout the world, including the world’s leading airport exhibition, Inter Airport Europe, Inter Airport China and Inter Airport India, plus INTERtunnel shows covering tunnelling technology in Italy and Russia. Mack Brooks Exhibitions’ experience in running events that are vital to infrastructure services throughout the world, in addition to the knowledge gained from 20 years of rail infrastructure exhibitions, provides a solid domestic and international base for CITE 2014.

Mack Brooks’ Chairman Stephen Brooks comments: “We believe that by staging CITE in London in 2014 we will provide a valuable showcase for companies aiming to contribute to the development of the UK’s national infrastructure. The event will also enable the industry to demonstrate its considerable capabilities to a wider international audience. We have many years of experience in successfully organising exhibitions covering specific areas of critical infrastructure such as airports and railways. This equips us very well to serve the dynamic civil infrastructure and technology market.”

Dr Alan Lawton, past Chairman of IMechE Railway Division comments: "I welcome this news. An exhibition that provides the whole supply chain with business and networking opportunities will undoubtedly support the needs of the industry at this important time for infrastructure in the UK. Taking the success of Infrarail into consideration I believe that CITE is a logical step to focus on and encompass the entire infrastructure industry."

For more information on CITE 2014, visit

www.cite-uk.com

-ENDS-

For further press information contact:

Ken Harris

Tel: (+44) (0)1273 300 434
Email: ken.harris@mackbrooks.co.uk

For general enquiries contact:
Heidi Cotsworth
Tel: (+44) (0)1727 814 400
Fax: (+44) (0)1727 814 401
Email: Heidi.cotsworth@mackbrooks.co.uk

From 23 - 27 October 2012, the 22^nd International Sheet Metal Working Technology Exhibition will open its doors again in Hanover, Germany. As the World’s No. 1 exhibition and business barometer for the sheet metal working industry, the show offers its audience a comprehensive idea of the prevailing technological trends and economic situation. Currently the economic outlook for the industry sector is cautiously positive. Despite some uncertainty due to the global economic situation and the currency crisis in the Euro zone, the sheet metal working industry presents itself as stabilised and confident.

A total of 1,516 exhibitors from 38 countries have already booked a net exhibition space of 85,000 square metres at EuroBLECH 2012. Compared to the previous event in 2010, this is an increase of 4% in exhibitor numbers and of 8% in exhibition space. A total of 61.500 trade visitors from all over the world attended the previous show.

Featuring an enormous amount of live machine demonstrations, EuroBLECH is the ideal event for sheet metal working professionals to find smart solutions and the right equipment for their companies. With this year’s theme ‘For a sustainable future’, EuroBLECH puts a special focus on energy efficient technology, environmentally friendly manufacturing processes and intelligent use of material. “Major developments in sheet metal working relate to lightweight construction and processing of hybrid structures,” explains Nicola Hamann, Exhibition Director EuroBLECH, on behalf of the organisers, Mack Brooks Exhibitions. “To reflect this development, processing of sheet metal/plastic hybrid structures has now been included in the EuroBLECH exhibition profile that covers the complete sheet metal working technology chain,” says Nicola Hamann.

Central hub for business on a global scale

Increasing global business of the sheet metal working industry means that the percentage of international participation at the show has gone up again: 49% of this year’s exhibitors come from outside Germany. Asia and the Americas have now become an inherent part of the exhibition. Italy, China, Turkey, the Netherlands, Switzerland, Spain, Austria, France, Taiwan, Great Britain and the USA are the largest exhibitor countries after Germany. “The leading international exhibition for sheet metal working is the central hub for business on a global scale. At EuroBLECH, in Hanover, suppliers of the latest machines, tools and systems for sheet metal working come together with trade visitors from all over the world, ready to invest,” says Exhibition Director Nicola Hamann.

Comprehensive range of products for sheet metal working

EuroBLECH 2012 covers eight halls of the Hanover exhibition grounds. Clearly structured, the exhibition’s layout shows the entire sheet metal working technology chain:

- Sheet metal, semi-finished and finished products (ferrous/non-ferrous), halls 16,17

- Handling technology, halls 16,17,27

- Separation technology, halls 11,12,14,15,16,17

- Forming technology, hall 27

- Flexible sheet metal working technology, halls 11,12,14,15

- Tube / section working, halls 11,14,15

- Processing of sheet metal / plastic hybrid structures, halls 13,16,17,27

- Machine elements and components, halls 11,12,14,15

- Joining and fastening technology, hall 13

- Surface technology for sheet metal / plate (process-related), hall 13

- Tool technology for sheet metal / plate working, halls 13,27

- Process control and quality assurance, halls 11,12,14,15

- Data processing (hardware and software), halls 11,12

- Factory and warehouse equipment, safety at work, environment protection,

halls 11,12,13,14,15,16,17

- Services, information and communication, halls 11,12,13,16,17,27

The exhibition will showcase a wide range of machines, tools and systems for sheet metal working, including high tech as well as conventional machinery and tools. A great number of exhibiting research institutions complements the event by providing the necessary foundations for technological development.

With this comprehensive range of products, EuroBLECH is the event for everyone involved in sheet metal production, working or trading, from all management levels in small, medium-sized or multinational companies. Visitors include production specialists, designers, plant managers, manufacturers, engineers and buyers as well as students and experts from associations. Visitors to EuroBLECH come from  sectors such as mechanical engineering, sheet metal products and components, steel and aluminium construction, the automotive industry and its suppliers, rolling mills, iron and steel production, heating/ventilation/air conditioning, medical technology, renewable energy construction, aerospace and shipbuilding.

New version of show preview available from end of August

The new online EuroBLECH 2012 Show Preview with detailed information on many exhibitors and their products will be available from end of August 2012 at www.euroblech.com. With this user-friendly online version visitors will be able to create and print their personalised Show Preview, with company and product descriptions sorted by hall or category.

Travel & Accommodation

Hanover, with its excellent infrastructure, can easily be reached by air, train, car and public transport. Drivers can find extensive parking areas directly at the exhibition grounds.

The train station ‘Hannover Laatzen’ is directly linked with entrance ‘West 1’ via the ‘Skywalk’. In addition to regional trains, high speed ICE-trains stop at this station during exhibitions. The German railway company “Deutsche Bahn” offers special prices for visitors to EuroBLECH. German airline Lufthansa also offers reduced rates for flights to Hanover during EuroBLECH.

World-famous for international exhibitions, Hanover offers accommodation of all ratings. Numerous travel agencies world-wide, offer travel packages to EuroBLECH 2012. Detailed information on travel and accommodation is available at www.euroblech.com

Opening hours / tickets

EuroBLECH 2012 is open from Tuesday, 23 October to Friday, 26 October 2012, from 09:00 - 18:00 and on Saturday, 27 October 2012, from 09:00 - 15:00. Visitors who buy their tickets in advance from the online ticket shop at www.euroblech.com will save money and time on-site. The day ticket entry price on-site is €32; visitors who buy online pay €26. The season ticket price on-site is €52, online it is €46.

Detailed information about the exhibition, the exhibitors and their products as well as useful information for visitors is available at the exhibition website www.euroblech.com.

ENDS

Issued by: Susanne Neuner, PR Director

EuroBLECH Press Office, Mack Brooks Exhibitions

Romeland House, Romeland Hill, St Albans, Herts AL3 4ET, United Kingdom

Tel: +44 (0)1727 814400, Fax: +44 (0)1727 814401, E-Mail: press@mackbrooks.co.uk

Editorial note: Photos, an area map and advance information on the Show Preview are available on request.

An accreditation request form can be found in the press section of the EuroBLECH website www.euroblech.com. The website also contains useful press information, photo material in high resolution as well as the online press boxes of exhibitors.

Mack Brooks Exhibitions have announced that BLECH Nordic, the dedicated sheet metal working exhibition for the Nordic countries, will adopt a four years cycle. The first BLECH Nordic was held in October 2011 at Stockholmsmässan in Stockholm and was a thorough success. A total of 129 exhibitors from 21 countries and 5,450 trade visitors from 31 countries attended the event.

“The overall feedback we had for the first BLECH Nordic was very positive. We have filled a void by offering a targeted industry event for a market with a distinctive demand for high-end products and cutting-edge technology. However, while in growth markets such as India, China and Russia, there is a definite demand for a biannual sheet metal working exhibition, we feel that in the well-established, high-tech markets of the Nordic countries a four years cycle for this industry event is more suitable. The next BLECH Nordic is, therefore, planned to take place in autumn 2015 in Sweden,” says Stephen Brooks, Chairman Mack Brooks Exhibitions.

BLECH Nordic is part of the series of BLECH events that Mack Brooks Exhibitions is organising in selected target markets. The dedicated sheet metal working events cover all sectors of the sheet metal manufacturing process, including sheet metal supply; tubes and sections; metal-forming and bending solutions; stamping; pressing; automation; flexible manufacturing systems; cutting; punching; joining/welding; tooling; laser technology; CAD/CAM; finishing/coating; quality assurance and material handling.

Next year, BLECH events will be held in Russia, India and China: BLECH Russia 2013 will take place from 12-14 March 2013 in St Petersburg; BLECH India 2013, from 17-20 April 2013 in Mumbai and the first BLECH China will be held from 14-16 May 2013 in Suzhou.

This year, from 23-27 October 2012, the world’s leading exhibition for sheet metal working technology, EuroBLECH, will take place again in Hanover, Germany. It will be the 22nd edition of Mack Brooks Exhibitions’ global flagship event for the sheet metal working industry. More than 1,500 exhibitors from 38 countries will present a wide range of innovative technology and manufacturing processes. A total of 61,500 trade visitors from all over the world attended the previous event.

www.blechevents.com

Stand reservations for the third edition of BLECH India, Sheet Metal Working Exhibition, have already begun and preparations at the offices of organisers Inter Ads – Brooks Exhibitions (India) Pvt. Ltd. are in full swing. BLECH India 2013 will take place from 17 – 20 April 2013, at the Bombay Exhibition Centre in Mumbai.

Nine months ahead of the exhibition, a total of fifty exhibitors from seven countries have already reserved their stands, and as much as 2,000 m² of net exhibition space has been booked by now. Compared to the same period of time before the very successful BLECH India 2011 show this is more than double the size. Many exhibiting companies will present themselves on bigger stands this time and put an even larger amount of machines, tools and systems on display.

More than half of the exhibiting companies that have already booked their stands at BLECH India 2013 come from India; biggest exhibitor countries from outside India are Germany and Italy. For foreign exhibitors the dedicated trade exhibition for India’s sheet metal working industry is an opportunity to gain new contacts and develop their business relations in the buoyant Indian market. India is considered one of the world’s key growth markets for sheet metal working. In particular the automotive industry and its suppliers as well as the construction industry are a driving force for India’s continuously positive economic outlook.

As a dedicated trade exhibition, exclusively focussing upon sheet metal working, BLECH India covers all sectors of the sheet metal manufacturing process: metal forming and bending solutions, stamping, pressing, automation, flexible manufacturing systems, metal supply, cutting, punching, joining/welding, tooling, laser technology, CAD/CAM, finishing/coating, quality assurance and material handling.

The previous exhibition, held in April 2011, was highly successful, with 139 exhibitors from 18 countries and more than 7,000 trade visitors attending. In the exhibition analysis, over 90% of exhibiting companies were able to report positive business enquiries at their stands, and 95% of the exhibitors reported that they had achieved their aims. They praised the event for the high quality and number of trade visitors, expert talks and contact with potential customers. The visitors rated the show as highly professional und noted the outstanding quality of the products and services on display, in particular the large number of live machine demonstrations.

For companies interested in exhibiting at BLECH India 2013, an exhibitor brochure is now available from the organisers. The brochure includes important information on stand reservation and stand packages, the venue and the Indian sheet metal working market. Extensive information about the show is also available on the exhibition website www.blechindia.com

Co-located with BLECH India 2013, the second Fastener Fair Mumbai will take place from 17-18 April 2013. The exhibition presents a comprehensive range of industrial fasteners, construction fixings, assembly and installation systems as well as fastener manufacturing technology.

www.blechindia.com

Issued by: Susanne Neuner, PR Director
BLECH Events Press Office, Mack Brooks Exhibitions
Romeland House, Romeland Hill, St Albans, Herts AL3 4ET, United Kingdom
Tel: +44 (0)1727 814400, Fax: +44 (0)1727 814401, E-Mail: press@mackbrooks.co.uk

INTERtunnel 2013, Russia’s exhibition of equipment, products and services for the construction and operation of tunnels and underground spaces, will take place at Moscow’s Expocentr from 12 to 14 March 2013.

This will be the fifth in a highly successful series of events enabling engineers and buyers to learn more about the very latest in tunnelling technology and expertise.

The last INTERtunnel event in Moscow took place in March 2011 alongside the Exporail exhibition of railway technology and services. Together the two shows attracted more than 3,000 decision-makers, engineers and industry professionals from Russia and beyond.

Next year’s INTERtunnel will take place at Expocentr at the same time as Expotraffic 2013, the exhibition for road traffic management and highways operation. This will cover the technologies, equipment and expertise needed to increase the efficiency and safety of Russia’s roads network.

Organisations supporting INTERtunnel 2013 include Russia’s Federal Ministry of Transport, the Government of Moscow and the Russian Tunnelling Association. Also supporting the event will be the International Transport Academy, which will host the accompanying Transport Congress. Featuring high-level participants from government and industry, this will provide valuable insights into the strategic direction of developments in Russia’s dynamic infrastructure sector. More details will be announced later.

INTERtunnel and Expotraffic are both organised by Restec Brooks Exhibitions, a joint venture of Mack Brooks Exhibitions Ltd in the United Kingdom and the St Petersburg-based Restec Exhibition Company.

Additional information on INTERtunnel will be available on the regularly updated show website ─ www.intertunnelrussia.com

For further press information contact: Ken Harris
Tel: +44 (0) 1273 300 434 Email: ken.harris@mackbrooks.co.uk

For general information contact: Natalia Charman, Exhibition Manager,
Tel: +44 (0) 1727 814 400 Email: intertunnelrussia@mackbrooks.com

May 2012

EuroBLECH is the world’s largest exhibition for the sheet metal working industry. The event is renowned as the leading international trade exhibition and a trend barometer for this industry sector. With this year’s theme “For a sustainable future”, EuroBLECH puts a special focus on energy efficient technology, environmentally friendly manufacturing processes and intelligent use of material.

Currently, a total of 1,340 exhibitors from 37 countries have booked their stands at EuroBLECH 2012, from 23-27 October 2012 in Hanover, Germany, covering a net exhibition space of more than 84,000 square metres. This is an increase in floor space of more than 6% compared with the previous show.

“This thoroughly positive outlook for this year’s EuroBLECH reflects a further recovery of the sheet metal working industry; and it also shows that the industry sector is inspired by overall trends such as sustainability, awareness of resources, energy efficiency and mobility. Major developments in sheet metal working focus upon lightweight construction, intelligent use of material, processing of hybrid structures as well as new applications of established production processes,” says Nicola Hamann, Exhibition Director EuroBLECH, on behalf of the organisers, Mack Brooks Exhibitions.

“Visitors to the exhibition can look forward to discovering a large number of machine demonstrations throughout the eight exhibition halls, as live presentation of innovative machinery and systems is traditionally a major focus for participating companies at EuroBLECH,” explains Nicola Hamann.

International attendance, a further characteristic of EuroBLECH, is, once again, very high at this year’s exhibition. Almost 48% of the companies that have already booked their stands come from outside Germany, with Italy, Turkey, China, Switzerland, the Netherlands and Spain being the biggest exhibitor countries after Germany.

EuroBLECH 2012 will occupy halls 11,12,13,14,15,16,17 and 27 at the Hanover Exhibition Grounds. The exhibition profile represents the entire sheet metal working technology chain: sheet metal, semi-finished and finished products, handling, separation, forming, flexible sheet metal working, joining, welding, surface treatment, processing of hybrid structures, tools, quality control, CAD/CAM systems and R&D.

Comprehensive information for visitors planning their trip to EuroBLECH 2012, in Hanover, is now available. The recently published visitor brochure includes the key show details, a site map, the exhibition profile as well as useful travel information. The leaflet is available in twelve languages, and can be ordered via the exhibition website www.euroblech.com

The monthly online newsletter ‘EuroBLECH Bulletin’ includes news about the upcoming event, as well as short reports on markets, research, products and trends in sheet metal working. As the exhibition gets closer, visitors will find useful tips about the show and information about the products and services on display at EuroBLECH 2012. Free subscription to the EuroBLECH Bulletin is available at www.euroblech.com

ENDS

Issued by: Susanne Neuner, PR Director

EuroBLECH Press Office, Mack Brooks Exhibitions,

Romeland House, Romeland Hill, St Albans, Herts AL3 4ET, United Kingdom

Tel: +44 (0)1727 814400, Fax: +44 (0)1727 814401, E-Mail: press@mackbrooks.co.uk

www.euroblech.com

May 2012

Mack Brooks Exhibitions has announced that BLECH China 2013 will take place at Suzhou International Expo Centre from 14-16 May 2013.

BLECH China joins BLECH India and BLECH Russia as dedicated sheet metal shows for key growth markets in 2013, the alternate year to EuroBLECH, the world’s No.1 sheet metal event, held by the organiser in Hannover, Germany, every two years.

BLECH China 2013 offers the opportunity for suppliers to showcase their equipment, technology and services under the internationally-renowned BLECH brand, in one of the most exciting and dynamic manufacturing markets in the world for the first time. Like the other two BLECH events, BLECH China covers all sectors of the sheet metal manufacturing process, including metal-forming and bending solutions, stamping, pressing, automation, flexible manufacturing systems, metal supply, cutting, punching, joining/welding, tooling, laser technology, CAD/CAM, finishing/coating, quality assurance and material handling.

In recent years, China's economy around the Yangtze River Delta, has become the engine of China's flourishing economy. The region, which includes the cities of Shanghai, Suzhou, Ningbo, Wuxi, Nanjing, Changzhou, Jinhua, Taizhou and Wenzhou, generates 26% of the country's GDP, fulfils 37% export volume, attracts 52% foreign investment, and has consistently shown double digit growth per year. The Yangtze River Delta was designated in 2006 as the country's most significant economic centre in China’s National Development Program, and an important international gateway to the Asia-Pacific region and beyond.

Next to Shanghai, Suzhou is the second largest industrial city, with the fifth largest GDP in China. With a population of 10 million, it has grown to become a hub of international and domestic investment. It lies just to the west and within easy reach of Shanghai with access to both Shanghai Pudong and Shanghai Hongqiao international airports.

The automotive, general engineering, IT, telecoms, construction and consumer goods markets in China are well-known to offer significant business growth opportunities. Whilst in recent months the global economic slowdown is showing an impact, economists predict a controlled and minor slowdown, revising China’s overall full year growth figures down from 8.6% to 8.0% in 2012 followed by higher growth through 2013. Investment in manufacturing continues at a very high level, across all end-user sectors for sheet metal technologies and products.

BLECH China 2013 will be co-located alongside Fastener Fair China 2013, a trade show dedicated to engineering fasteners and fixings such as bolts and rivets.

David Tellett, Managing Director of Mack Brooks Exhibitions, commented: “BLECH China joins our other BLECH events in providing a specialised and dedicated meeting place for sheet metal suppliers and buyers in key growth regions. With our experience as the organisers of EuroBLECH and our presence in China through Mack Brooks Exhibitions (Shanghai) Ltd, we can offer our exhibitors solid platforms for new business contacts in this major sheet metal market”

More information on BLECH China is available online at www.blechchina.com

EuroBLECH 2012, the 22nd International Sheet Metal Working Technology Exhibition takes place in Hannover Germany 23-27^th October 2012. www.euroblech.com

Issued by: Susanne Neuner, PR Director

EuroBLECH Press Office, Mack Brooks Exhibitions,

Romeland House, Romeland Hill, St Albans, Herts AL3 4ET, United Kingdom

Tel: +44 (0)1727 814400, Fax: +44 (0)1727 814401, E-Mail: press@mackbrooks.co.uk

May 2012

Mack Brooks Exhibitions has announced that Fastener Fair China 2013 will take place at Suzhou International Expo Centre from 14-16 May 2013. It will take place co-located with BLECH China, an international sheet metal technology event.

Fastener Fair China joins Fastener Fair India and Fastener Fair Russia as the dedicated fastener events for key growth markets outside Europe in the first half of 2013.

Fastener Fair China 2013 provides an ideal platform for both local and international distributors and manufacturers to establish successful business relations, both with customers for fastener and fixing systems, and with local agents or partners across the Yangtze River Delta and elsewhere within China. The show will attract both trade visitors and end-users, keen to source existing products and also find new fastening and fixing solutions.

The market for fasteners in China has experienced in excess of 10% annual growth in recent years, driven mainly by rapid growth in the production of industrial equipment and automotive vehicles. It has a current estimated value of 55 billion Yuan. Externally threaded fasteners remain dominant in terms of demand, while specialist and custom-made fasteners are growing strongly from a modest base.

China's economy around the Yangtze River Delta has become the engine of China's flourishing national economy. The region, which includes the cities of Shanghai, Suzhou, Ningbo, Wuxi, Nanjing, Changzhou, Jinhua, Taizhou and Wenzhou, generates 26% of the country's GDP, fulfils 37% export volume, attracts 52% foreign investment, and has consistently shown double digit growth per year. The Yangtze River Delta was designated in 2006 as the country's most significant economic centre in China’s National Development Program, and an important international gateway to the Asia-Pacific region and beyond.

Next to Shanghai, Suzhou is the second largest industrial city, with the fifth largest GDP in China. With a population of 10 million, it has grown to become a hub of international and domestic investment. It lies just to the west and within easy reach of Shanghai with access to both Shanghai Pudong and Shanghai Hongqiao international airports.

The automotive, general engineering, IT, telecoms, construction and consumer goods markets in China are well-known to offer significant business growth opportunities. Whilst in recent months the global economic slowdown is showing an impact, economists predict a controlled and minor slowdown, revising China’s overall full year growth figures down from 8.6% to 8.0% in 2012 followed by higher growth through 2013. Investment in manufacturing and engineering continues at a very high level, across all end-user sectors for fastener and fixing products.

More information on Fastener Fair China is available online at www.fastenerfairchina.com

The No.1 international fastener industry event, Fastener Fair Stuttgart,takes place 26-28 February 2013 at Messe Stuttgart, Germany. It is organised by Mack Brooks Exhibitions Ltd.

More information at http://stuttgart.fastenerfair.com/

For information on other global Fastener Fair events, visit www.fastenerfair.com

Issued by: Susanne Neuner, PR Director

Mack Brooks Exhibitions Ltd, Romeland House, Romeland Hill,St Albans, Herts AL3 4ET, England. Tel +44 (0)1727 814400, Fax +44 (0)1727 814 401,

E-Mail: press@mackbrooks.co.uk

May 2012

The first Fastener Fair Hannover, launched as an event for the fastener and fixings industry with a particular focus on an end user audience, attracted a total of 400 exhibitors from 31 countries and 4,500 visitors from 75 countries. Fastener Fair Hannover, held from 24-26 April 2012 in hall 21 at the Hanover Exhibition Grounds, was co-located with Hannover Messe, internationally renowned as the world’s most comprehensive industry fair for technological innovation.

Exhibiting companies at Fastener Fair Hannover put a wide range of industrial fasteners, construction fixings, assembly and installation systems as well as manufacturing technology on display and their highly attractive stands added to the professional flair of the show.

Fastener Fair Hannover was a very international event. The majority of exhibiting companies were European with Germany and Italy being the largest European exhibitor countries. Other important exhibitor countries were China, France, Great Britain, The Netherlands, Taiwan and Turkey.

The event welcomed a total of 4,500 visitors from 75 countries. Almost half of the visitors (46%) were visitors from outside Germany. Top ten visitor countries after Germany were The Netherlands, Italy, Great Britain, Poland, the Czech Republic, France, Turkey, Austria, Switzerland and Belgium.

The exhibition survey showed that 38% of the visitors were end users; the remainder were distributors and suppliers, trade and wholesale as well as fastener and fixings manufacturers. Fastener Fair Hannover 2012 attracted industry specialists at all levels, with 74% having managerial responsibility and / or direct purchasing responsibility. Major industry sectors the visitors belonged to were the automotive industry, distribution, engineering, hardware / DIY retailing and electrical and electronics equipment.

The exhibitor survey showed that 85% of the exhibitors had fully or partly achieved their aims at the first Fastener Fair Hannover. While 61% of the exhibitors rated the visitor quality as excellent or good, the exhibitors were less happy about the visitor numbers at their stands; 57% of the exhibitors rated the visitor quantity as good.

“The first Fastener Fair Hannover was a successful launch and we are pleased with the outcome. The exhibition survey clearly showed that for many companies the event was thoroughly successful. More than 80% of the exhibitors had a positive overall impression of the event. However, we now have to further analyse how we can attract more trade visitors and improve the experience for all of the exhibiting companies,” explains Susanne Rauberger, Exhibition Director Fastener Fair, on behalf of the organisers, Mack Brooks Exhibitions.

The next Fastener Fair in Germany will be Fastener Fair Stuttgart, the leading Exhibition for the Fastener and Fixings Industry, which will take place from 26-28 February 2013 at the Stuttgart Exhibition Grounds. Two thirds of the available exhibition space is already booked. The Stuttgart edition of Fastener Fair mainly focuses on a traditional trade and manufacturing audience; the show predominantly targets distributors, wholesalers and suppliers.

Issued by: Susanne Neuner, PR Director

Fastener Fair Press Office, Mack Brooks Exhibitions Ltd

Romeland House, Romeland Hill, St Albans, Herts AL3 4ET, United Kingdom

Tel. +44 (0)1727 814400, Fax +44 (0) 1727814401; Email: press@mackbrooks.co.uk

Expotraffic 2013, the exhibition for road traffic management and highways operation, will take place at Moscow’s prestigious Expocentr from 12 to 14 March 2013.

This timely event will enable companies supplying the technologies, equipment and expertise needed to increase the efficiency and safety of highways to present their capabilities to visiting professionals representing the authorities and agencies responsible for the development and operation of the Russia’s roads.

With the road system in Russia facing ever-increasing use as a result of economic growth and rising demand for personal mobility, there is an urgent need to adopt international best practice in managing the network. Expotraffic is being launched into a market in which there is a clear demand for the latest traffic management systems and products and strong evidence that Russian buyers are looking internationally as well as to domestic suppliers for solutions.

Expotraffic will therefore provide a valuable new marketing opportunity for companies seeking
business in Russia in four key sectors:

Road traffic management, including toll systems and telematics

Road safety, including traffic lights and speed control

Highways operation and maintenance, including lighting and security

Parking systems and equipment

The event is being organised by Restec Brooks Exhibitions, a joint venture of Mack Brooks Exhibitions Ltd in the United Kingdom and the St Petersburg-based Restec Exhibition Company. Restec Brooks Exhibitions is the organiser of the successful Exporail rail technology events and the INTERtunnel shows for the tunnelling industry, both of which take place regularly at Moscow’s Expocentr.

Additional information on Expotraffic 2013, including details of exhibition stand options, will soon be available on the regularly updated show website www.expotraffic.com

The first Fastener Fair Hannover, Exhibition for Fastener and Fixing Technology, opens its doors from 24 – 26 April 2012 at the Hanover Exhibition Grounds. The event takes place in hall 21, alongside Hannover Messe 2012. A total of 400 exhibitors from 31 countries showcase their latest products and services for the fastener and fixings industry, covering a net exhibition space of 6,500 square metres net. “We are delighted that this launch event has been such a success with exhibiting companies of this industry sector,” says Susanne Rauberger, Show Director Fastener Fair Hannover on behalf of the organisers Mack Brooks Exhibitions.

The majority of exhibiting companies are European with Germany and Italy being the largest European exhibitor countries followed by Turkey, Great Britain, France and the Netherlands. Companies from China, Taiwan and India as well as North American exhibitors are also well represented at the show.

“More than 50 companies here at Fastener Fair Hannover, have never exhibited at any Fastener Fair before and will therefore add value to the fastener and fixings show with their new products and services. A comprehensive range of industrial fasteners, construction fixings, assembly and installation systems as well as manufacturing technology will be on display. For distributors, suppliers, engineers and other industry professionals from all over the world, Fastener Fair Hannover 2012 is, therefore, the ideal opportunity to source and trade new products and to gain an overview of what is available on a global scale,” says Susanne Rauberger.

The outlook for this industry sector is currently thoroughly positive, with the market for fastener and fixings holding up, due to strong industry production, in particular, in Germany. Competition, however, remains tough and gaining new business contacts is more crucial than ever. “Being co-located with Hannover Messe, internationally renowned as the world’s most trendsetting technology fair, Fastener Fair Hannover holds great potential for companies in the fastener and fixings sector: with its specialist audience from all areas of the industrial value chain, the event offers outstanding business and networking opportunities,” explains Susanne Rauberger.

Fastener Fair Hannover 2012 is open from Tuesday, 24 April 2012 to Thursday, 26 April 2012, from 9.00 - 17.00 hrs. The nearest entrance is Entrance West 3 of the Hannover Exhibition grounds. 


Visitors to Fastener Fair Hannover 2012 who register in advance at the show website www.fastenerfair.com will profit from a favourable entry ticket price of 20 Euro instead of 30 Euro, the ticket price on site. Visitors holding an entry ticket to Hannover Messe get free entry to Fastener Fair Hannover 2012. The exhibition catalogue is available on-site and included in the entry price.

Detailed information about the exhibition including an up-to-date exhibitor list and an exhibition preview is available on the show website at www.fastenerfair.com
Fastener Fair Hannover is part of the Fastener Fair series of targeted trade exhibitions for the fastener and fixings industry which includes Fastener Fair Brazil, Fastener Fair India, Fastener Fair Russia, Fastener Fair Thailand, Fastener Fair China and the flagship event Fastener Fair Stuttgart, Europe’s leading international trade fair for this industry sector. The next Fastener Fair Stuttgart will take place from 26-28 February 2013.

Issued by: Susanne Neuner, PR DirectorFastener Fair Press Office, Mack Brooks Exhibitions Ltd Romeland House, Romeland Hill, St Albans, Herts AL3 4ET, United Kingdom Tel. +44 (0)1727 814400, Fax +44 (0) 1727814401; Email: press@mackbrooks.co.uk

From 26 – 28 February 2013, Fastener Fair Stuttgart, Europe’s leading trade exhibition for the fastener and fixing industry, will once again open its doors in Stuttgart, Germany.

Currently, ten months ahead of the exhibition, some 230 companies from all over the world have already reserved their stand space, covering a net exhibition space of more than 8,000m² net. Major exhibitor countries include Germany, Italy, the United Kingdom and the Netherlands. Fastener Fair Stuttgart 2013 will once again occupy halls 4, 6 and 8 at the Stuttgart Trade Fair Centre. The three halls offer a total exhibition space of 15,500m² net.

The exhibition represents the entire supply chain of the fastener and fixing industry. The show profile includes industrial fastener and fixings, construction fixings, assembly and installation systems and fastener manufacturing technology. Storage, distribution, factory equipment and information services round off the exhibition profile.

The Stuttgart edition of Fastener Fair mainly focuses on a traditional trade and manufacturing audience; the show predominantly targets distributors, wholesalers and suppliers.

The previous Fastener Fair Stuttgart, held in February 2011, was the biggest Fastener Fair ever. A total of 667 exhibitors from 40 countries showcased a comprehensive range of products and services for the fastener and fixing industry, covering an exhibition space of 12,500m² net. Some 8,300 industry professionals, an increase of 38% compared with the previous exhibition, visited the show. Exhibiting companies were very satisfied with the outcome of the exhibition. In the exhibitor survey 93% of exhibitors declared that they made new business contacts, and 99% said that they fully or partly achieved their aims.

For companies interested in exhibiting at Fastener Fair Stuttgart 2013, an exhibitor brochure is now available. Detailed information about the event will soon be available at www.fastenerfair.com

Issued by: Susanne Neuner, PR Director
Fastener Fair Press Office, Mack Brooks Exhibitions Ltd
Romeland House, Romeland Hill, St Albans, Herts AL3 4ET, United Kingdom
Tel. +44 (0)1727 814400, Fax +44 (0) 1727814401; Email: press@mackbrooks.co.uk

The 7th edition of SIFER (International Exhibition of Rail Technology), which tookplace from April 5 - 7, 2011 for the 5th time in Lille, set a record in terms of attendance. 4,400 visitors, including leading figures from the rail industry, attended the show at Lille's Grand Palais.

Professionals from the sector were present once again. Among the 400 exhibitors, the highlights of the trade show included a delegation of Chinese companies, Alstom and several French regional groups of rail industry suppliers, as well as the organization of a regional rail awards ceremony by the magazine Ville, Rail & Transport.

First rate exhibitors and visitors

The increase in the number of exhibitors and visitors demonstrates once again SIFER's ability to mobilize rail stakeholders.

The quality of visitors was appreciated by the manufacturers, suppliers, subcontractors, service companies and regional groups which were present. Exhibitors were able to make promising contacts with blue-chip companies. Representatives from SNCF, Keolis, Bombardier, Siemens and RATP, as well as the administrative authorities of large cities, were among the visitors to the show.

For the first time, a delegation of five Chinese companies, represented by CNR, one of the biggest rail vehicle builders in the country, was present. Exhibitors and visitors were able to discover the ambition displayed by China in the area of high speed, as well as their recent projects. A rapidly growing China has shown its ability to compete with the main European stakeholders.

Some of them had the opportunity to make first contacts in order to develop strategic partnerships; like Alstom Transport, which also participated in SIFER for the first time. At the Northern France Rail pavilion, the company presented one of its flagship products, the Tram-Train.

SIFER 2011 Key figures:

3 exhibition halls
400 exhibitors (from 16 European countries, 25 % foreign exhibitors)
4,400 visitors (from 41 countries, 16 % foreign visitors)

Important visitors at SIFER

Claude Gewerc : President of the Regional Council of Picardie.
Hubert du Mesnil : President of RFF (Railroad Network of France).
Alain Rousset : President of the Organization of Regions of France.
Jean Pierre Farandou : Managing Director of the local SNCF branch.
Francis Grass : Managing Director France Voyageurs for Veolia Transport.
Valérie Létard : Senator of Nord, President of Valenciennes Metropolitan
Area and Deputy Mayor of Valenciennes.
The Transport Commission of the National Assembly.
Purchasers from the United Kingdom, including Hitachi.
Representatives from German and Austrian poles.

The professions represented by the visitors

Managers
Purchasers
Business Development Managers
Quality Managers
Technical Managers
Project Managers
Engineers
…

Mobilized regions

This year, SIFER targeted the regions, of which a majority where physically present at the trade show. Around 200 manufacturers and company groups were represented in five regional pavilions. Long-standing participants Nord-Pas de Calais and Picardie returned once again, grouped together within Northern France Rail. And for the first time, four other regions decided to join SIFER : Ile de France, Auvergne, Loire Atlantique and Burgundy.

The exhibiting companies had the opportunity to present their know-how and their present projects. Confronted with increasing competition from emerging countries and the development of stricter and stricter norms, a great majority of subcontractors have decided to co-ordinate their skills in the form of regional groupings to offer more comprehensive services to major customers.

Conferences and awards enhanced the show

Visitors to the show had the opportunity to participate in several conferences organized in the Exhibitor Forum. HBM measurement, environmental norms, new ideas for funding for the Regions, as well as the position of the Chinese market were themes discussed.

Also within the framework of the show, « Ville, Rail & Transports », in addition to its list of mobility award winners, rewarded the regions Nord-Pas de Calais and Auvergne. Both ranked first, they each received a Gold Rail, rewarding the quality of their railway development.

The Silver Rail was given to the Haute-Normandie region, and the Bronze Rail to Lorraine.

The magazine also made four awards by theme. These included the MooviTER from Brittany (Rolling Stock), the quality of the ticketing in the Centre region (Ticketing), the successful installation of Pimm's (Information Point for Multiservice Mediation) in Burgundy (Passenger Information), and the creation of a new innovative cross-border Lorraine – Luxembourg TER train service by the Lorraine region.

The Innovation prizes organized by i-Trans highlighted two award-winning companies, represented under the Northern France Rail cluster: GETRASUR (rolling stock category) and ROV DEVELOPPEMENT (railway infrastructure category).  These two companies were recognized for their ability to innovate in the area of sustainable development.

Stephen Brooks – Chairman of Mack Brooks Exhibitions:

“Never has an edition of SIFER aroused such enthusiasm ! Exhibitors and visitors unanimously praised the perfect organization of the event, as well as the quality of the exchanges that took place during the 3 days of the trade show. The keen interest was such that several exhibitors have already expressed their desire to reserve a stand at the next event. The 8^th edition of SIFER will take place again at the Lille Grand Palais, in March 2013”.

See you in March 2013, at Lille Grand Palais, for the 8^th edition of SIFER.
For more information on SIFER 2011 : www.sifer2011.com

Press Contact – RP carrées
Benoît Renart – Tel : 03 28 52 00 57 – benoit.renart@rp-carrees.com
France Lionet – Tel : 03 28 52 00 50 – france.lionet@rp-carrees.com



SpringsTec Fair 2013 will take place from 26 – 28 February 2013 at Messe Stuttgart, Germany. Held alongside the well-established Fastener Fair event, Europe’s largest event for the fixing and fastening industry, SpringsTec Fair 2013 is a dedicated trade show for the international springs industry which focuses on all aspects of the design, production and distribution of technical springs, spring parts, spring systems, as well as related services such as quality testing and control. At the three-day event visitors from a whole range of industrial sectors, including the automotive, electrical, machinery, engineering, rail and aerospace, medical and office equipment industries will meet suppliers of the very latest in spring and spring technology products.

Europe’s manufacturers of technical springs and spring systems have seen a growing demand for their products from end-user industry sectors, such as automotive, electrical and other types of engineering. In 2010 spring makers produced well over EUR 3 billion* of industrial springs and spring parts and the sector has since seen a significant upswing in activity.

“Springs companies have been at the centre of a continuous drive for more efficiency and innovation in the whole of the supply chain. In order to compete on a global level, manufacturers have increased differentiation, added value and know-how to their products. At SpringsTec Fair 2013 in Stuttgart, Europe’s springs manufacturers will have an opportunity to showcase the leading products and expertise in this key engineering sector. SpringsTec Fair 2013 exists for springs professionals and engineering buyers from across Europe and around the world – to assess, specify, buy, sell and network,” says David Tellett, Managing Director of organiser Mack Brooks Exhibitions Ltd.

“We have had very positive reactions from industry leaders who welcome a dedicated meeting point for producers, distributors, engineers and other professionals from the sector. In Stuttgart, the event takes place in the very heartland of Europe’s spring and engineering industry,” David Tellett concludes.

For companies who are interested in exhibiting at SpringsTec Fair 2013, a sales brochure with more information, including specifics for the Early Bird discount which runs until the 1 June 2012, is now available. More details are also available on the show website www.springstecfair.com.

For more information, please contact Mack Brooks Exhibitions, Tel: +44 (0) 1727 814 400 or email springstecfair@mackbrooks.com.

*European Springs Federation statistics

Railtex 2013 will take place from 30 April to 2 May next year at the Earls Court
exhibition venue, in the heart of London. This will be the 11th in a highly successful
series of trade shows covering railway equipment, systems and services which have
firmly established Railtex as the UK’s leading rail industry event.

Covering the entire railway market – both fixed infrastructure assets and rolling
stock, plus all related products and services - Railtex 2013 will serve as a showcase
for the very latest technology at a time of massive investment in Britain’s main line
and urban rail networks.

Familiar Railtex features will again be present, including an On Track Display
presenting rail-related equipment and machinery and the Recruitment Wall,
alerting show visitors to exhibitors’ skills needs. And taking place during the
exhibition will be an extensive programme of drop-in technical seminars, keynote
presentations and industry updates, together with plenty of networking
opportunities.
In addition, 2013 will see the introduction for the first time of the Railtex Awards,
recognising successes and achievements by exhibitors during an evening drinks
reception and dinner that will also serve as a social occasion for participants in the
event.

More than 400 exhibitors took part in the last Railtex in 2011, attracting some 9,200
industry professionals from 49 countries. Surveys revealed that 65% of visitors had
immediate purchasing power, underlining the show’s success in bringing together
suppliers and potential buyers.

Exhibition Manager Heidi Cotsworth commented: “Feedback from exhibitors and
visitors at Railtex 2011 was very positive and the whole industry was supportive of
event. All our efforts are now directed towards delivering an equally successful
next year.”

Railtex 2013 is organised by Mack Brooks Exhibitions (www.mackbrooks.com),
which also runs the Infrarail series of rail infrastructure events in the UK. The
company’s rail technology exhibitions also include E XPO Ferroviaria in Italy,
Exporail in Russia, SI F E R in France and Exporail India.

General information on the exhibition can be found at www.railtex.co.uk

For further press information on Railtex 2013 contact:
Ken Harris
Tel: (+44) (0)1273 300 434
Email: ken.harris@mackbrooks.co.uk

For general enquiries contact:

Heidi Cotsworth or Cara Sterry
Tel: (+44) (0)1727 814 400
Fax: (+44) (0)1727 814 401
Email: railtex@mackbrooks.co.uk

Against the background of growing worldwide demand for corrugated and folding carton, exhibition organisers, Mack Brooks Exhibitions, announces the launch of CCE International, the only specialised exhibition in Europe for the corrugated and carton industries. CCE International will take place from 19-21 March 2013 at the Munich

Trade Fair Centre in Germany. The show will be co-located with the 8^th ICE Europe, the world’s leading trade exhibition for paper, film and foil converting.

With an ever increasing demand for attractive and environmentally friendly packaging solutions, the worldwide consumption of corrugated and cartonboard is on the up. This is mainly due to an increased standard of living in the emerging economies and a general awareness for sustainably produced and packaged products. For the corrugated and carton converting industries, this development offers excellent opportunities to further increase market share within the packaging sector. Corrugated boxes and folding cartons guarantee excellent protection of the packaged goods, while being lightweight and recyclable.

“It is in this context that we decided to launch a dedicated exhibition for this industry sector in Europe. With CCE International we finally offer a tailor-made platform for the corrugated and carton industries. The exhibition is designed to give raw material manufacturers as well as machinery and service suppliers a unique opportunity to present their latest products and developments to corrugated and folding carton converters, as well as packaging designers,” says Stephen Brooks, Chairman Mack Brooks Exhibitions.

“Feedback from the companies in the corrugated and carton sector, who we had informed in advance of our plans to launch CCE International, was thoroughly positive. Machinery manufacturers as well as suppliers of raw material, services or ancillaries are excited about the idea of finally having a market place of their own; many companies have immediately confirmed that they will participate,” explains Nicola Hamann, Exhibition Director, CCE International. “The first CCE International is therefore set to be well received by the corrugated and carton industry and we are confident that the launch event will prove a solid basis for the development of the exhibition into Europe’s first choice event for this industry sector,” says Nicola Hamann.

Exhibitor information now available

For companies interested in exhibiting at CCE International 2013, an exhibitor brochure is now available including useful information about the exhibition, the venue and how to book stand space. As an introductory offer, there is an early-bird discount of 10% on stand space for exhibitors who book before the end of June.

The exhibition profile of CCE International covers raw materials, corrugated equipment, corrugated converting equipment, folding carton converting equipment, printing equipment, pre-production and pre-press, materials handling and warehousing, waste extraction and baling as well as machine and plant controls.

Visitors to the exhibition include trade professionals of corrugated board plants and sheet plants, corrugated sheet feeders, folding carton converters, packaging designers and specifiers, rigid carton manufacturers, honeycomb board manufacturers, core board and core tube manufacturers and trade agencies. CCE International will also attract a variety of production specialists across industry sectors such as food and beverage, furniture, pharmaceutical, cosmetics and tobacco.

Two dedicated industry shows at one venue

As regards trade visitors, CCE International will benefit from strong synergies with the 8^th ICE Europe - the world’s leading exhibition for paper, film and foil converting - that will take place at the same time and venue. With 384 exhibitors from 23 countries and 5,700 visitors from 65 countries, the previous event was the biggest converting exhibition ever. ICE Europe 2013 will take place in halls A5 and A6 at the Munich Trade Fair Centre; CCE International will be held in Hall B5, situated exactly opposite.

The Munich Trade Fair Centre is internationally renowned as a venue for professional industry exhibitions. With its modern exhibition halls, easy access and excellent infrastructure it offers the best possible facilities for showcasing products and services as well as live machine demonstrations.

Detailed information about CCE International is now available on the multilingual show website www.cce-international.com

ENDS

Issued by: Susanne Neuner, PR Director
CCE International Press Office, Mack Brooks Exhibitions
Romeland House, Romeland Hill, St Albans, Herts AL3 4ET, United Kingdom
Tel: +44 (0)1727 814400, Fax: +44 (0)1727 814401, E-Mail: press@mackbrooks.co.uk

The 22nd International Sheet Metal Working Technology Exhibition, EuroBLECH 2012, will take place from 23 – 27 October 2012 in Hanover, Germany. The event is renowned as the leading trade exhibition for this industry sector. The current booking status of this year’s show reflects a significant stabilisation of the sheet metal working industry. Today, some seven months ahead of the opening of the exhibition, a total of 1,235 exhibitors from 38 countries have already reserved their stand space, covering a net exhibition space of 83,000 square metres. These are some 5,000 square metres more than the total exhibition space at the previous event.

“The trend, which had already become apparent during the previous exhibition, has now been confirmed: the industry sector is investing again, and, after one of the worst crisis for this industry, manufacturers and suppliers of machines, materials and systems for sheet metal working are finally able to, once again, witness some planning reliability,” explains Nicola Hamann, Exhibition Director EuroBLECH on behalf of the organisers, Mack Brooks Exhibitions. “Apparently, the sheet metal working industry has recovered, and now presents itself as stabilised, confident and thoroughly positive. Despite some incertitude due to the currency crisis in the Euro zone or the recent developments in some north African and middle Eastern countries, there are generally positive sales prospects for suppliers to the sheet metal working industry; and not only in the growth markets of Asia and South America, but also in many European countries as well as in the USA,” says Nicola Hamann.

As for the exhibitor countries at this year’s EuroBLECH, it is already clear that the exhibition will be able to hold its high percentage of international participants. Almost half of the exhibiting companies that have already booked their stands come from outside Germany, with Italy, Turkey and Switzerland being the biggest exhibitor countries after Germany. According to the current booking status there are also significantly more exhibitors from the USA and China than at the previous exhibition.

EuroBLECH 2012 will again occupy halls 11,12,13,14,15,16,17 and 27 at the Hanover Exhibition Grounds. The exhibition profile represents the entire sheet metal working technology chain: sheet metal, semi-finished and finished products, handling, separation, forming, flexible sheet metal working, joining, welding and surface treatment, processing of hybrid structures, tools, quality control, CAD/CAM systems and R&D.

Featuring an enormous amount of live machinery demonstrations, EuroBLECH is renowned with international sheet metal working professionals as the ideal event to find smart solutions and the right machines, equipment and materials for their companies. A total of 61,500 trade visitors from all over the world attended the previous show.

Comprehensive information about EuroBLECH 2012 is available on the multilingual website www.euroblech.com

Issued by: Susanne Neuner, PR Director
EuroBLECH Press Office, Mack Brooks Exhibitions
Romeland House, Romeland Hill, St Albans, Herts AL3 4ET, United Kingdom
Tel: +44 (0)1727 814400, Fax: +44 (0)1727 814401, E-Mail: press@mackbrooks.co.uk

Burlington, MA, February 28, 2012 … With more than a year remaining before the 2013 ICE USA opens in Orlando, Florida, on April 9, show organizer Mack Brooks Exhibitions announced that they have increased the Show Floor by 15,000 square feet to accommodate demand for more space.

Of the nearly 200 companies that have already reserved 90% of the original available booth space, over a dozen have increased their booth size by an average of 98%.  In addition, nearly two-dozen companies that did not exhibit at the 2011 event have reserved space for the 2013 Show.

“We are thrilled with the enthusiastic response from exhibitors so far in advance of the Show,” said Bob Chiricosta, Show Director of ICE USA. “Several more companies are also planning on expanding their booth space, and many other companies are planning on exhibiting for the first time.”  Chiricosta said many exhibitors at the 2011 event were so pleased by the results of the first Show that they want to bring more equipment and running machinery to the 2013 ICE USA. He cited Double E Company as one exhibitor that nearly tripled the size of its booth from 400 to 1,000 sq.ft.; and Deacro that expanded from 600 sq. ft. to 1,000 sq.ft.

“We increased our space at the show because the company is growing rapidly,” said Bret Hardy, Marketing Director, Double E Company.  “In addition to our own web converting accessories, we also represent Re spa and Mario Cotta, so to do justice to this wide-ranging spectrum of complementary accessories, we will need more space. We also plan to showcase our evolving line of shafted roll stands and we think ICE USA is the best event to communicate to our audience that Double E is a total solutions provider.”

These sentiments were echoed by Keith Hamilton, Sales and Marketing Manager at Deacro. “Following Deacro’s success at the last ICE show in Florida and due to our latest innovations and new slitter rewinder products, Deacro has nearly doubled our exhibit space for the next ICE show. We are eagerly awaiting the 2013 show where we expect larger crowds, driven by the volume of equipment on display for attendees to see,”

ICE USA is also benefitting from international companies that exhibit at the other worldwide ICE events and want a larger presence in North America.  Spooner and PSA Technology are two new exhibitors to ICE USA that have exhibited at ICE Europe for many years.

“As the economy continues to improve and the word continues to spread about the success of the 2011 ICE USA, we anticipate the 2013 event will continue to grow much larger,” Chiricosta predicted. “Fortunately, we have the space at the Orlando Convention Center to accommodate the growth.”

As reported in an earlier news release, several 2011 exhibitors have reported millions of dollars of sales from leads generated at the Show.  “We have generated sales of nearly $2 million from meetings we had at ICE USA,” said Bob Pasquale, President of New Era. “Plus, we have several other ICE USA generated leads in the pipeline.”

# # # #

Media Contact:
Roger Halligan or Tim Ward
H+A International
rhalligan@h-a-intl.com
tward@h-a-intl.com

Photos: ICE USA images are available by contacting Tim Ward at tward@h-a-intl.com or calling 312-332-4650, ext. 18.

Bangkok – Famed international exhibition organizer Mack Brooks Exhibitions Limited brings to Thailand for the first time the renowned Fastener Fair to cater demand of cost-effective fastening and fixing solutions in Thailand and its neighboring countries, further portraying Thailand as the central hub of exhibition business in Southeast Asia and beyond.

Fastener Fair Thailand 2012 will bring together in one roof the latest technological innovations and cost-effective solutions for the automotive, electronics, infrastructure, airport and general manufacturing industries right in the heart of Thailand and ASEAN region, with 120 international and local exhibitors, numerous international pavilions and at least 5,000 trade visitors from around the world. The event will take place on September 6-8, 2012 at BITEC Bang Na.

Mr. Michael Wilton, Exhibition Director of Mack Brooks Exhibitions Limited said “Thailand is a major fastener markets. Demand for fasteners and fixings are on the rise on the back of the bright outlook of the major fasteners and fixing users such as automotive, electronics, infrastructure and airport industry. Not to mention that Thailand is gaining momentum to become the hub of ASEAN manufacturing industry.”

Thailand's automotive sector grew by 64% in 2010 and is forecasted to be one of the top 10 producers of cars by 2015 with a 10% growth rate for car production. During January to November, 2011, the automotive parts export from Thailand totaled to 14.778 billion baht, which was higher than the total value in 2010 at 14.45 billion baht.

Thailand has become the center of automobile production in Asia by producing more than 1 million units since 2003 and in 2012. The Thailand Automotive Institute projects that production will exceed 2 million units for the first time in the history, pushing Thailand as one of the top 10 global automobile producers.

In the electronics industry, 85% of Thailand’s electronic goods production are for export. Electronics and electrical appliances saw 108 projects, with a total investment of $950 million.

Additionally, the outlook of the infrastructure is second to none. Modernization and development of the urban traffic network in Bangkok will be a driving factor. A $50 billion high-speed rail network between Thailand and China—transnational rail link between Greater Mekong countries with investment of $130 million—is also in the pipeline.

Mr. Wilton further explained that even though the recent floods gravely affected several communities and industrial estates in Thailand, historical data has shown that Thailand is incredibly resilient to such setbacks and industries are predicted to recover quickly.

“In the absence of a fair focusing of fastening solutions and trade in this region, the time seems ripe to bring the Fastener Fair model to this marketplace. The exhibitors will display their cost-saving products which in turn will help users cut their total production cost. Cost of each fastener and fixing item may be little but industries have to use them in large quantity so a cut in price per piece will result in an effective cost saving,” Mr. Wilton noted.

Mr. Mangkorn Dhanasarnsilp, Vice Chairman of The Federation of Thai Industries, conferred that the fastener and fixing industry is essential in the production chain for the interrelated industries of electronics, automobiles and furnitures. One of the pillars of Thai industry is automobile production, which utilizes the largest number of pieces of fastener and fixing items.

The domestic and global automotive industry is expected to recover in the first half of this year, resulting in more demands for automobile parts. Therefore, the more-than 2,000 automotive part producers in Thailand have to supply both the domestic and export markets to support the growth of the global automobile producers. It is expected that the automotive parts industry will grow by 12% in the first quarter of 2012, which is already evidenced by strong initial orders.

“With the bright outlook in automotive industry, the fastener and fixing industry will certainly see the growth in their business as well as the Thai economy as a whole,” Mr. Mangkorn said.

Mrs. Supawan Teerarat, Director of Exhibition Department, Thailand Conference and Exhibition Bureau (TECB) said, “TCEB has the primary commitment to support, promote and develop the Thai exhibition industry to move towards being the top player at ASEAN level under the campaign “Believe in Thailand.” The strategy in 2012 will emphasize on establishing the country’s image as the hub of exhibition in ASEAN by attracting  international exhibitions with niche profiles at the scale serving visitors from the Southeast Asian region—such as the support to Fastener Fair Thailand 2012, which is a brand new show for this year.”

The support to Fastener Fair Thailand 2012 is significant to the country for fair organizers, exhibitors and visitors, as they will experience the potential of Thailand in being the production bases of fastener and fixing industry and the world-class exhibition venue for business. TCEB has professionally supported the staging of Fastener Fair Thailand 2012 with activities including visits to the venue and marketing research to help establish business opportunities in the region. The bureau also supported marketing campaigns in foreign markets by offering promotion to fair visitors such as the “100 A-HEAD” campaign to draw visitors from countries in the ASEAN Plus Six region and the  “Be My Guest” program, which offers accommodations to large buyers.

“TCEB has a strong confidence that the Fastener Fair Thailand 2012 will create business connections and trade negotiations domestically and regionally especially among countries in ASEAN. Thailand pays high attention to this market in order to prepare Thai industries in entering the ASEAN Economic Community. The staging of this fair is forecasted to bring the total MICE visitors in 2012 to reach 750,000 and to generate revenue of over 60.12 billion baht to the country, more than 8 billion baht of which will come from exhibition industry,” Mrs. Supawan concluded.

Fastener Fair's flagship event was first launched in Stuttgart, Germany and was later followed by the Fastener Fair series, which includes Fastener Fair Hannover, Germany; Fastener Fair India; Fastener Fair Brazil and the next and exciting Fastener Fair Thailand.

#####################

About Mack Brooks Exhibitions Ltd.

Mack Brooks Exhibitions is a British company being established in 1965, the company owns and organizes leading international trade fairs and 'business to business' exhibitions, events and conferences around the world. In another word, we build markets worldwide by bringing buyers and sellers together in specialized market-places.

For more information, please contact Amy Tan, Public Relation Director, Pro Media PR at 082-486-9797 or e-mail amytanbkk2012@gmail.com.

With Fastener Fair Russia, from 12-14 March 2013 at the Lenexpo Exhibition Centre in St Petersburg, companies of the fastener and fixings industry are now offered a dedicated trade exhibition to target the vast Eastern European market of Russia. Organised by Restec-Brooks, a joint venture between Fastener Fair organisers Mack Brooks Exhibitions and their Russian partner Restec Exhibition Company, this launch event will be co-located with BLECH Russia, a highly successful industry exhibition focussing on sheet metal working.

After the global economic crisis, Russia’s economy has bounced back with a 4.1% increase in GDP in 2011. Due to new infrastructure projects such as the high-speed railway track from Moscow to St. Petersburg with an investment of some 23 billion US$, and with Russia hosting the 2014 Winter Olympic Games as well as the 2018 World Cup, alongside several other multi-billion US$ investments in infrastructure, the country provides excellent business opportunities for both investors and manufacturers.

“This positive economic development in Russia together with an increasing demand from companies in the fastener and fixings sector to approach this important market, made us launch a new Fastener Fair in St. Petersburg, Russia’s fastest growing industrial region” says Susanne Rauberger, Exhibition Director Fastener Fair Russia.

“The region around St. Petersburg is renowned for its automotive and shipbuilding production and as a centre for R&D, robotics, IT, metal working and the electronics industry. Fastener Fair Russia 2013, therefore, offers great business opportunities for local as well as international manufacturers, suppliers and traders of fastener and fixings technology,” explains Susanne Rauberger, on behalf of the organisers.

The exhibition profile of Fastener Fair Russia covers industrial fasteners and fixings, construction fixings, assembly and installation systems, fastener manufacturing technology as well as storage and logistics services. As a dedicated market place for the fastener and fixings sector, the exhibition provides buying and networking opportunities for distributors, suppliers, engineers and industry professionals.

For companies interested in exhibiting at this specialised industry event for Russia’s fasteners and fixings industry detailed information is now available from the Fastener Fair website at www.fastenerfair.com

Issued by: Susanne Neuner, PR Director
Fastener Fair Press Office, Mack Brooks Exhibitions Ltd
Romeland House, Romeland Hill, St Albans, Herts AL3 4ET, United Kingdom
Tel. +44 (0)1727 814400, Fax +44 (0) 1727814401; Email: press@mackbrooks.co.uk

EcoPrint is delighted to announce that Intergraf, Europe's leading professional federation for commercial print, is now a supporting association of EcoPrint 2012.

The news extends EcoPrint’s reach into the commercial print sector and confirms the exhibition as the number one forum for promoting a sustainable print industry.

Beatrice Klose, Secretary General, Intergraf said: “It makes perfect sense for Intergraf to support EcoPrint 2012. For many years we have been providing our members with the advice, solutions and, more recently, the practical tools they need to successfully adopt sustainability within their companies. EcoPrint is both a unique and inspiring prospect for Intergraf and we are delighted to be a part of it.”

As the leading pan-European professional print trade organisation, Intergraf has achieved notable success in its long-term work devoted to sustainability. This includes the development of key steps in the formulation of a carbon calculator that helps print businesses to measure and gauge their carbon output.

Frazer Chesterman, Director, EcoPrint said: “Since the launch of EcoPrint in October 2011 we have been pleased at the level of interest in the show from across the entire print spectrum. The issue of sustainability is not confined to any one part of the print industry and Intergraf's support is exciting given its respected place in the commercial print sector. EcoPrint 2012 will mark the formation of a new community focussed on the biggest single issue facing the industry today, that of sustainability – both ecologically and economically.”

Intergraf represents 23 national printing federations in 20 countries in Europe. It promotes and protects the interests of print and related industries by working with the European Institutions to enhance the sector's competitiveness through lobbying, informing and networking.

EcoPrint 2012 will feature seminars, debates, discussions and advice for print businesses, creative agencies, marketeers and print buyers who are keen to successfully adopt a sustainable strategy. It will be the first exhibition devoted to driving forward the print industry’s definition of sustainable products and services for print production. EcoPrint 2012 will focus on applications and the business of sustainability, in a unique format unlike the traditional print trade show model.

Media contacts:

David Jamieson
amplifier
T: 0845 0177522
E: david@amplifiergroup.com
W: www.amplifiergroup.com

Burlington, MA, January 9, 2012 … According to a recent survey of nearly 200 exhibitors participating in the 2011 ICE USA Exposition and Conference in Orlando last April, several companies have already realized millions of dollars in new sales from conversations that took place at the Show.

“We have generated sales of nearly $2 million from meetings we had at ICE USA,” said Bob Pasquale, President of New Era. “We recently sold a complete coating line worth well over $1 million to one converter, as well as a coating section of a packaging line to another converter valued at hundreds of thousands.  Plus, we have several other ICE USA generated leads in the pipeline.”

Pasquale said it is unusual to generate such large sales so quickly after a Show. “This is the best converting show we have participated in during the last seven to eight years. We believe one of the keys to these sales was having running equipment on the Show floor so people can actually see it in operation.”

These sentiments were echoed by John Godbold, CEO of UK-based Ashe Converting, who said their Show leads have already turned into strong sales. “We have already sold two pieces of equipment and are pursuing some other leads that resulted from our participation in ICE USA.”

Several other companies reported that they are actively pursuing longer-term sales from the Show. “We got a solid $2 million worth of prospects out of it, as well as some very good long-term contacts,” said Rick Garber of Busch Electronics. “Of all the shows I’ve participated in as an exhibitor during my career, ICE 2011 was definitely one of the very best,” he concluded.

Some companies also reported selling equipment on the Show Floor, including Atlas/Titan. They sold the equipment they brought to the Show to a company from Latin America.

“I believe these impressive results are an indication that despite the troubled overall global economy, the converting industry appears to be buying new equipment,” said Bob Chiricosta, Show Director of ICE USA. “It appears much of this is being driven by the need to replace older, less-efficient machinery.”

Chiricosta’s opinion is reinforced by the results of the recently concluded 2011 ICE Europe Exhibition that attracted a record number of attendees and exhibitors to Munich at the end of November, making it the largest converting exposition in the world. Nearly 400 exhibitors showcased the latest converting equipment to 5,700 visitors from 65 countries.

The 2013 ICE USA will take place April 9-11, 2013 in Orlando, Florida at the Orange County Convention Center.

# # # #

Media Contact:
Roger Halligan or Tim Ward
H+A International
rhalligan@h-a-intl.com
tward@h-a-intl.com

Photos: ICE USA 2011 images are available by contacting Tim Ward at tward@h-a-intl.com or calling 312-332-4650, ext. 18.

Exporail 2012, Russia’s exhibition of railway technology and services, will take place in Moscow’s Expocentr from 7 to 9 November 2012.

This will be the sixth in a highly successful series of events that serve as a major showcase for the very latest in railway equipment, products and expertise across all sectors of the industry.

Exporail has a proven track record in attracting managers, engineers and industry professionals from Russia and beyond. More than 3,000 visitors attended the last Exporail, staged in Moscow in 2011. Visitor numbers were boosted by over 200 delegates to the 4^th International Transport Congress, which took place alongside the exhibition.

Exhibitors at Exporail 2011 totalled around 100, a mix of leading Russian and global companies, offering products for both rolling stock and infrastructure sectors of the market, as well as many of the specialised needs of the rail industry.

As at previous exhibitions, Exporail 2012 will feature a full supporting conference and seminar programme, providing valuable insights into the strategic direction of developments in the dynamic Russian railway market. Details will be announced later.

Exporail is organised by Restec Brooks Exhibitions, a joint venture of Mack Brooks Exhibitions Ltd in the United Kingdom and the St Petersburg-based Restec Exhibition Company.

Additional information on Exporail 2012 will be available on the regularly updated show website – www.exporailrussia.com

For further press information contact:
Ken Harris
Tel: +44 (0) 1273 300 434
Email: ken.harris@mackbrooks.co.uk

For general information about Exporail 2012
Natalia Charman, Mack Brooks Exhibitions
Tel: +44 (0) 1727 814 400
Email: exporailrussia@mackbrooks.com

The upcoming Fastener Fair Hannover, from 24 – 26 April 2012 has been well received by companies in the fastening and fixings sector. Some four months ahead of the show, a total of 304 exhibitors from 28 countries have already booked their stands at the first edition of Fastener Fair Hannover. The exhibition will be held in hall 21 at the Hannover Exhibition Grounds. Fastener Fair Hannover 2012 covers a net exhibition space of some 5,000 square metres.

The majority of exhibiting companies are European with Germany and Italy being the largest European exhibitor countries, followed by Turkey, Great Britain, the Netherlands and France. Companies from Asia and North America are also represented at the show. A total of 55 companies have never exhibited at any Fastener Fair before and will therefore add value to the fastener and fixings show with their new range of products and services.

Fastener Fair Hannover 2012 will take place alongside Hannover Messe, internationally renowned as the world’s most trendsetting technology fair covering all areas of the industrial value chain.

“In addition to the traditional manufacturing and trade audience at Fastener Fair, we expect a greater end user audience from all over the world in Hanover,” says Exhibition Director Susanne Rauberger on behalf of Mack Brooks Exhibitions. “Co-located to the world’s key event for industrial technology, Fastener Fair Hannover will be able to offer its participants a wide range of new business contacts in additional industry areas, such as the automation, energy and mobility sectors.”

The exhibition profile of Fastener Fair Hannover covers industrial fasteners and fixings, construction fixings, assembly and installation systems, fastener manufacturing technology as well as storage and logistics services. The exhibition provides buying and networking opportunities for distributors, suppliers, engineers and industry professionals.

Hanover, renowned for hosting international industry events, offers excellent national and international travel connections by air, rail and road as well as a wide range of accommodation at all ratings. Information on travel and accommodation can be found in the travel section of the exhibition website www.fastenerfair.com.

Visitors to Fastener Fair Hannover 2012 who register in advance at the show website www.fastenerfair.com will profit from a favourable price of 20 Euro instead of 30 Euro, the ticket price on site. Registration will be open from mid January onwards. Visitors holding an entry ticket to Hannover Messe get free entry to Fastener Fair Hannover 2012. The exhibition catalogue is available on-site and included in the entry price.

Fastener Fair Hannover 2012 is open from Tuesday, 24 April 2012 to Thursday, 26 April 2012, from 9.00 - 17.00 hrs. The nearest entrance is Entrance West 3 of the Hannover Exhibition grounds.

Detailed information about the exhibition including an up-to-date exhibitor list is available on the show website at www.fastenerfair.com

Susanne Neuner, PR Director
Fastener Fair Press Office, Mack Brooks Exhibitions Ltd
Romeland House, Romeland Hill, St Albans, Herts AL3 4ET, United Kingdom
Tel. +44 (0)1727 814400, Fax +44 (0) 1727814401; Email: press@mackbrooks.co.uk

The first edition of Fastener Fair Brazil, held from 8-9 November 2011 in São Paulo’s Expo Centre Norte, proved to be a big success. A total of 170 international exhibitors and more than 2,500 visitors participated in this launch event for Brazil’s fastener and fixings industry. Based on the highly positive feedback from both visitors and exhibitors, organisers Mack Brooks Exhibitions have already announced that the next event will be held next year, from 20-21 November 2012, at the same venue.

“We want to thank our participants at the first Fastener Fair Brazil for this great success. The commitment from our exhibitors as well as the support from industry organisations and media partners was extraordinary. And I am particularly delighted to be able to report that the quality and quantity of the visitors have not just exceeded our expectations, but those of many of the exhibitors,” says Candyce Costa, Exhibition Manager Fastener Fair Brazil, on behalf of Mack Brooks Exhibitions.

During the two show days, the exhibitors had put a comprehensive range of industrial fasteners, construction fixings, assembly and installation systems as well as manufacturing technology on display. Well over a third of exhibitors were Brazilian companies alongside suppliers and manufacturers from Europe, the USA and Asia. In the exhibition survey the majority of exhibitors were able to report positive business enquiries at their stands; most of the exhibitors stated to have achieved their aims.

Highly qualified visitor audience

In the exhibitor survey the event received excellent marks for the quality and quantity of its trade visitors. These were mainly from Brazil (95%) and the neighbouring South American countries; however, some 2% of visitors came to Fastener Fair Brazil from other parts of the world, in particular from the USA.

Visitors at Fastener Fair Brazil 2011 were mainly fastener and fixings manufacturers (45%) followed by distributors/suppliers (24%), end users (23%) and wholesalers/retailers suppliers (8%). Key industry sectors to which the visitors belonged included the automotive industry, the distribution sector, construction, hardware/retail, civil engineering, mechanical engineering, electrical products and furniture manufacturing. The exhibition attracted fastener and fixings specialists at all levels, with the majority being either company owners, having managerial or purchasing responsibility or being technical engineers.

Next Fastener Fair Brazil in November 2012

“The launch of Fastener Fair Brazil came exactly at the right time, and it successfully met the demand of the Brazilian fasteners and fixings industry for a targeted industry event in São Paulo. We look forward to sustainably developing this show into Brazil’s key platform for the fastener and fixings industry,” says Candyce Costa.

Fastener Fair Brazil will come back to the Expo Center Norte in São Paulo from 20–21 November 2012. The event is part of the Fastener Fair series of Mack Brooks Exhibitions’ targeted trade fairs for the fastener and fixings industry which includes Fastener Fair Hanover, Fastener Fair India, Fastener Fair Thailand, Fastener Fair Russia and the flagship event, Fastener Fair Stuttgart, Europe’s leading international trade fair for this industry sector.

Information on Fastener Fair Brazil 2012 will soon be available on the show website www.fastenerfair.com

Issued by:
Susanne Neuner, PR Director
Fastener Fair Press Office
Mack Brooks Exhibitions Ltd
Romeland House, Romeland Hill, St Albans, Herts AL3 4ET, UK
Tel: +44 (0)1727 814400, Fax: +44 (0)1727 814401, Email: press@mackbrooks.co.uk

With 129 exhibitors from 21 countries and 5,350 trade visitors from 31 countries, the first BLECH Nordic, Sheet Metal Working Exhibition, was a thoroughly successful launch event. The exhibition was held from 4-7 October 2011 at Stockholmsmässan, where it was co-located to Techniska Mässan, Sweden’s renowned Technical Fair for a range of different technical manufacturing processes. BLECH Nordic, in contrast, is a specialised trade exhibition, exclusively dedicated to sheet metal working, and this is what the event was highly rated for by visitors and exhibitors alike.

Targeted event for high-end market

“The overall feedback we had for the first BLECH Nordic exhibition was very positive. It seems that we have filled a void by offering a targeted industry event for a market with a distinctive demand for high-end products and future-oriented manufacturing solutions,” says Susanne Rauberger, Exhibition Director BLECH Nordic on behalf of Mack Brooks Exhibitions.

With their products and services on display at BLECH Nordic 2011, the exhibiting companies gave a comprehensive overview of machines, tools, systems and services for the entire sheet metal manufacturing process. The large variety of live machine demonstrations was a major visitor attraction at the show. There was also a series of sheet metal research and new technology seminars on each exhibition day about the latest developments in sheet metal forming; simulation and process optimisation; laser and water jet cutting as well as joining technologies. The seminars were well received by the visitors and added to the professional flair of the technology exhibition.

Exhibition survey statistics

BLECH Nordic is part of the series of BLECHevents that Mack Brooks Exhibitions is organising for selected target markets. The visitor audience at BLECH Nordic 2011 was therefore mainly a regional one. While a good half of the exhibiting companies were foreign exhibitors that used this industry platform to target the Nordic sheet metal market, almost 90% of the visitors came from the Nordic countries. Alongside Swedish companies (45% of the exhibitors) there were exhibitors from all over the world, including Germany, Italy, Finland, Denmark, Great Britain, the USA and China. However, most visitors were from Sweden (75%) and 13% of visitors came from other Nordic countries, mainly from Finland and Norway.

The analysis of the visitor survey showed that BLECH Nordic 2011 attracted a highly qualified and professional audience, with the majority of the sheet metal working specialists being head of production (33%), company owner (22%) or having managerial responsibility (33%). Key industry sectors to which the visitors belonged included sheet metal products, components and assemblies (55%), mechanical engineering (13%), iron and steel production (8%), the automotive industry (5%) and steel and aluminium construction (5%).

Sheet metal working events in 2012 and 2013

The next BLECH Nordic Sheet Metal Working Exhibition is set to take place in 2013 in Stockholm. Two further BLECHevents will be held in 2013, both for the third time: BLECH Russia 2013 will take place from 12-14 March 2013 in St Petersburg, and BLECH India 2013, from 17-20 April 2013 in Mumbai.

Next year, from 23-27 October 2012, the world’s leading exhibition for sheet metal working technology, EuroBLECH, will take place again in Hanover, Germany. It will be the 22^nd edition of Mack Brooks Exhibitions’ global flagship event for the sheet metal working industry. The previous exhibition in 2010 was attended by 1,455 exhibitors and 61,500 visitors from all over the world.

Information on EuroBLECH and the BLECHevents is available at www.blechevents.com

Issued by: Susanne Neuner, PR Director
BLECHevents Press Office
Mack Brooks Exhibitions Ltd
Romeland House, Romeland Hill, St Albans, Herts AL3 4ET, United Kingdom
Tel: +44 (0)1727 814400, Fax: +44 (0)1727 814401, E-Mail: press@mackbrooks.co.uk

Berlin, 14^th November 2011: EcoPrint Europe Live 2012, which takes place in Berlin from 26-27 September, is pleased to officially announce HP as its headline partner for the event, signalling the market leader’s strong support for sustainability in print.

Marcus Timson, Director, EcoPrint says: “We are absolutely delighted to have the support of HP as a headline partner for EcoPrint Europe 2012. To have such a prestigious technology leader as HP declaring its support for the event is a great endorsement of the concept and vision of EcoPrint.  HP is clearly committed to a sustainable strategy and therefore has plenty of expertise to contribute to the content and profile of EcoPrint and we are excited to be working in partnership with them”.

Ronen Zioni, Marketing Director, HP, GSB EMEA, adds: “Once again HP is recognised in News Week’s Top 25 US Sustainable Brands, and also features within the world’s top 100 sustainable brands. So it should come as no surprise that HP recognises that the EcoPrint event is both a great idea and the perfect platform for HP to communicate the message of sustainable print business to an audience of printers, agencies, marketers and brands. The reality is that the leading brands of the world are aligning their supply chains to their goals for carbon neutrality, and print must fall into line. At EcoPrint, HP will showcase innovative print technologies that enable a wide range of application projects in retail, interiors, point of sale, outdoor advertising and packaging as well as developing content for visitors and attendees looking for inspiration and information for sustainable, innovative and profitable print. We look forward to working with the EcoPrint team to create an exciting new event format for the print and marketing industries.”

EcoPrint will provide a focused attendance of professionals with guidance, support and inspiration for sustainability. At this early stage, nearly a full year from the event, EcoPrint has already received excellent support from potential exhibitors and visitors from around the world, suggesting that the industry is ready to embrace both the show and its vision of a profitable, sustainable future.”

Frazer Chesterman, Director, EcoPrint continues: “Despite a busy event calendar next year, it’s good to have HP’s confidence for this new concept and to showcase their commitment to the big issue of sustainability in print. With their encouragement and involvement, the event will, I am sure, deliver significant value for participants, visitors and delegates.”

Stephen Goddard, Environmental Program Leadership Manager, HP concludes: “The EcoPrint show is an event that has been needed for some time. I believe that sustainability is an essential ingredient for any modern, profitable business. The print industry needs a focus on this issue so we can equip ourselves to align with consumer needs, customer demands and legal compliance. By working together through a platform such as EcoPrint, I am sure we will be able to provide a strong path forward for any print professional to make positive and profitable change.”

www.ecoprintshow.com

ENDS

– Ende –

Pressekontakte:
Paul Spiers
amplifier
Tel.: 0845 0177522
Mobil: 07886 786 321
E-Mail: paul@amplifiergroup.com
Website: www.amplifiergroup.com
Twitter: amplifier_paul

Munich, 10/11/2011 – The 7^th International Converting Exhibition, ICE Europe 2011, ended today with record numbers in visitors, exhibitors and floor space. With 5,700 visitors from 65 countries, 384 exhibitors from 23 countries and a net exhibition space of some 10,000 square metres, ICE Europe 2011 was the biggest converting exhibition ever. At its new venue, the Munich Trade Fair Centre, the show had grown by 7% in visitor numbers, by 17% in exhibitor numbers and by 24% in exhibition space compared to the previous event.

“These are of course very positive results; and we are particularly delighted to be able to report a further 7% increase in visitor numbers on top of the 27% increase we already had at the show in 2009,” says Nicola Hamann, Exhibition Director ICE Europe on behalf of the organisers Mack Brooks Exhibitions. “This year’s exhibition has therefore clearly made another step forward: it is firmly positioned as the leading international trade fair for the world-wide converting industry, with the new venue adding to the professional flair of the exhibition.”

“We are pleased to be able to report that ICE Europe 2011 was also more international than ever: 44% of the exhibitors and 47% of the visitors came from outside Germany. This is an increase of 4% in international visitors compared to last time, while the traditionally high percentage of foreign exhibitors remained stable,” explains Nicola Hamann.

Some 70% of the non-German visitors came from other EU countries and a further 20% from European countries outside the EU. The Far East, the Middle East and North America were also represented at ICE Europe 2011 with some 3% of visitors coming from each of these regions. The 2011 event welcomed considerably more visitors from Eastern Europe, Turkey and North America. Top ten visitor countries, after Germany and Italy, were Switzerland, Austria, France, Great Britain, The Netherlands, Spain, Belgium, Turkey, Russia and Poland.

Major industry sectors represented by visitors were packaging, engineering, the paper industry, package printing, the chemical industry and textiles / nonwovens. The exhibition categories visitors were primarily interested in were coating and laminating, slitting/rewinding, accessories, control / test / measurement and materials.

A first analysis of the exhibitor survey shows that a vast majority of the participating companies were highly satisfied with the results of the exhibition as well as with the new venue. They praised the high quality of trade visitors and reported large numbers of business contacts. The new show grounds were well received for their excellent infrastructure and modern exhibition halls. Most of this year’s exhibitors had already indicated on site that they intended to exhibit again at the next exhibition. ICE Europe 2013 will take place from 19-21 March 2013 at the Munich Trade Fair Centre.

Next year, Mack Brooks Exhibitions will organise ICE Asia, from 23 -25 October 2012, in Shanghai, China; and the next ICE USA will take place from 9-11 April 2013 in Orlando, Florida.

Information on the ICE International Converting Exhibitions is available at www.ice-x.com

ENDS

Issued by: Susanne Neuner, PR Director

ICE Europe
Mack Brooks Exhibitions
Romeland House, Romeland Hill, St Albans, Herts AL3 4ET, Great Britain
Tel: +44 (0)1727 814400, Fax: +44 (0)1727 814401,
E-Mail: press@mackbrooks.co.uk

From 8-10 November 2011, visitors to ICE Europe 2011 will be able to discover an even larger range of new and enhanced equipment and solutions for converting flexible materials. Amongst the total of 380 exhibitors from 22 countries, some 100 companies are new exhibitors at ICE Europe. Forty three percent of exhibitors at this year’s show come from outside Germany, with the majority coming from Italy, Great Britain, the USA, Switzerland, the Netherlands and France. The show covers a net exhibition space of 9,800 square metres.

“As the organisers, we are very happy that this year we are able to present the biggest ever exhibition for the converting industry. At its new venue, the Munich Trade Fair Centre, ICE Europe 2011 has grown by 16% in exhibitor numbers and by 22% in exhibition space compared to the previous event”, says Nicola Hamann, Exhibition Director ICE Europe, on behalf of the organisers Mack Brooks Exhibitions.

“As the leading international trade show for the converting industry, ICE Europe is seen as a trend barometer by the converting community. A shortage of raw materials, increasing energy costs and converting new materials are currently strongly influencing the manufacturing processes. Solutions that focus on energy efficiency, material reduction, sustainable production and processing of biodegradable materials are in high demand. For industry professionals this year’s ICE Europe will therefore be an ideal marketplace to get an overview of the latest technology on offer and to discover solutions to tackle today’s challenges”, explains Nicola Hamann.

ICE Europe’s exhibition profile has a clear focus on converting flexible materials, such as paper, film, foil and nonwovens.  Exhibiting companies at ICE Europe 2011 will present the latest machines, accessories and systems for coating and laminating, drying/curing, treatment, slitting/rewinding, finishing and flexographic / rotogravure printing. Materials, software, retrofits, factory equipment as well as consulting and toll converting services will also be on display.

Extensive information about exhibitors and their exhibits can be found on the show website www.ice-x.com. With the new online Show Planner, visitors can put together and print their individual floor plans. A Show Preview with hundreds of exhibitor profiles and product descriptions is available on the website as a download and as a collection of videos. 

A conference on “Sustainability in packaging – processes and materials” is being held alongside the exhibition. The conference takes place on Wednesday, 9 November 2011; it is organised by Fraunhofer Institut. Detailed information on the conference is available on the exhibition website.

ICE Europe 2011 will take place in halls B5 and B6 of the Munich Trade Fair Centre, accessible via entrance East which is directly connected to Munich’s underground railway system. The trade fair centre can easily be reached from the city centre as well as from the international airport. During the exhibition there will be a regular shuttle-bus connection between the trade fair centre and the airport.

ICE Europe 2011 will be open on Tuesday, 8 November 2011 and on Wednesday, 9 November 2011, from 9 am to 5 pm; on Thursday, 10 November 2011, opening hours are from 9 am to 4 pm.

Tickets are available in advance from the online ticket shop at a reduced price of 30 Euro; ticket price on site will be 45 Euro.

ENDS

Issued by:

Susanne Neuner, PR Director
ICE Europe Press Office
Mack Brooks Exhibitions Ltd
Romeland House, Romeland Hill, St Albans, Herts AL3 4ET, Great Britain
Tel: +44 (0)1727 814400, Fax: +44 (0)1727 814401, E-Mail: press@mackbrooks.co.uk

Editorial note: Photo material, exhibitor press releases and the accreditation request from are available in the press section of the ICE Europe website www.ice-x.com Alternatively please send an email to press@mackbrooks.co.uk

The 18th International Exhibition for Airport Equipment, Technology, Design & Services ended today with very positive results. A total of 606 exhibitors from 34 countries and more than 12,600 visitors from all over the world attended the leading international exhibition for the airport industry. The show covered a net exhibition space of 25,850 square metres. Compared to the previous exhibition in 2009, this is a substantial growth in both exhibitor and visitor numbers as well as in exhibition space.

“An increase of 5% in visitor numbers and a growth of more than 10% in exhibitor numbers and floor space compared to 2009 is of course a very positive result. We are particularly delighted to be able to say that there was lively trading activity throughout the halls and the outdoor area of the show, and a large number of exhibitors were able to report positive sales figures,” explains Nicola Hamann, Show Director inter airport Europe, on behalf of the organisers, Mack Brooks Exhibitions. 

Renowned as the leading international exhibition and trend barometer for the entire airport industry, this year’s inter airport Europe was regarded as particularly important by the airport community. Following a difficult time, some two or three years ago, the business climate for airport operators and manufacturers of airport equipment is now seen more positive again. This is mainly due to an increase in passenger figures, in particular in the current year.

“We are confident that the good mood at this year’s inter airport Europe sends positive signals for the future of the airport sector. Three years after the global economic crisis the airport industry is able to present itself optimistically, and everyone is hoping that it will carry on in this way,” says Nicola Hamann.

A first analysis of the exhibition survey shows that an absolute majority of exhibitors were highly satisfied with the results of inter airport Europe 2011 and most of this year’s exhibitors are already planning their participation at the next inter airport Europe which is set to take place from 8 – 11 October 2013 at the Munich Trade Fair Centre.

Next events for the airport industry organised by Mack Brooks Exhibitions are inter airport China, from 26 - 28 September 2012 at Beijing’s China International Exhibition Centre, and inter airport India, from 11-12 April 2013 at the Pragati Maidan Exhibition Centre in Delhi. 

Further information about inter airport Europe is available from the website: www.interairport.com/europe.

Issued by:

Susanne Neuner, PR Director
inter airport Europe Press Office
Mack Brooks Exhibitions Ltd
Romeland House, Romeland Hill, St Albans, Herts AL3 4ET, United Kingdom 
Tel: +44 (0)1727 814400, Fax: +44 (0)1727 814401, E-Mail: press@interairport.com

The world’s first exhibition 100 per cent focused on sustainable print business

Berlin, Germany, 13th October 2011: Today sees the official launch of a new print industry event dedicated to sustainable print production in retail, interiors, POP and packaging: ‘EcoPrint™ Europe LIVE 2012’. Organised by FM Brooks, part of the Mack Brooks Exhibitions Group, and headed up by Frazer Chesterman and Marcus Timson, the first EcoPrint™ Europe will be held in Berlin on 26^th and 27^th September 2012 (www.ecoprintshow.com).

EcoPrint’s aim is to draw together a community of leaders, innovators and early adopters who see the true value of sustainable print production, moving the industry forward by enabling print service providers to improve the performance, profit and sustainable future of their businesses.

Frazer Chesterman, Director, FM Brooks, explains: “Most importantly, EcoPrint™ is an event that focuses on good, sustainable business. We believe that true sustainability is a result of the focus on efficiency, the reduction of waste, implementation of effective process management and a committed, dynamic sales and marketing campaign. Our research suggests that increased profit and competitive advantage can result from a strategic investment in improving your business’s sustainable practices.”

Chesterman says the content and focus of EcoPrint™LIVE 2012 will not only be different from any other event in the print industry’s event calendar, it will also provide attendees with a defined and practical guide to implementing and enhancing profitability through a sustainable approach to print business.

Continues Chesterman: “Perhaps the greatest misconception in the industry today is that implementing environmental initiatives costs the printer money and that ‘going green’ is not commercially viable. However, in many cases the opposite is actually true and printers are missing out on an important and profitable new revenue stream if they don’t engage with opportunities in the eco space. EcoPrint™ is as much about economics as ecology because sustainable businesses are in a far better position to embrace sustainable resources.”

EcoPrint™’s unique focus will assist the industry in dispelling these misconceptions and myths, both in the eyes of printers, but also critically, in the eyes of the brands and the consumer. We see this event as a key component in helping the industry to get these positive messages out to printers, their customers and the end consumer.”

Marcus Timson, Director, FM Brooks, explains: “We see that the retail, point of purchase and packaging sectors are leading the change because this is where the consumer comes into direct contact with a product before any purchase is made.  Many brands are in the process of aligning their supply chains to meet their carbon neutral pledges in time for 2015 and 2020 and will expect their suppliers to fall into step.

“But there are a number of forces impacting on the print service provider. These include consumer demand, brand and retailer CSR pledges, ‘Greenwash’ and the need to comply with new legislation. All this means printers must embrace a more robust sustainable policy. EcoPrint™ is fully committed to providing guidance, advice, innovation and inspiration in this respect. For exhibitors that have sustainable products, EcoPrint™ provides them with access to a focused community of print service providers who will be receptive to these innovative new products and practices.”

EcoPrint™’s ‘Are you ready?’ launch campaign is designed to challenge the print industry and asks whether businesses are really ready for the shift to sustainable print production. “It is better to begin making the transition now and on your own terms before legislation and regulation forces your hand,” continues Timson. “Being ready proves you are committed to sustainability and are a trusted supplier of responsibly produced products.”

“The print community currently doesn't have a focused forum for eco-print production,” says Chesterman. “EcoPrint™ will create a timely and sophisticated environment that encourages strategic conversation, collaborative problem solving and creative thinking. From the outset, EcoPrint™  has been focused wholly on participating companies and potential visitors, and what they genuinely need from an event. In fact, for the inaugural steering group committee meeting in Dusseldorf, which took place yesterday, over 50 of the industry’s leading manufacturers and key influencers came together to work with us to refine the concept and agree the format for the event.” 

Timson concludes: “Lastly, but possibly most important of all, EcoPrint™ is about creating a new community and inviting everyone interested in sustainability to get involved. EcoPrint™ is designed for the leaders among us because it takes vision and commitment to inspire change. We invite everyone to get involved from throughout the supply chain and the global print industry! From associations and institutions throughout the world of print, to consultants, print service providers, agencies, brands, manufacturers, magazines and online media. We are all in this together, and together we can create an event like no other and one that makes a positive difference to the print sector.”

-Ends – 

Media contacts: Paul Spiers, amplifier, T: 0845 0177522, M: 07886 786 321, E: paul@amplifiergroup.com, W: www.amplifiergroup.com, Tw: amplifier_paul   

About FM Brooks

FM Brooks is part of the Mack Brooks Exhibitions Group. It is an event business run by Frazer Chesterman and Marcus Timson that will launch new events that challenge, connect and inspire new business. FM Brooks will produce events and exhibitions for visionaries, leaders, innovators and early adopters through a collaborative model, producing unique content, an inspiring experience and measurable results for all participants.

The Mack Brooks Exhibitions Group is a leading, privately owned organiser of global exhibitions throughout the world in engineering, transport, metalworking, information technology, textiles, food and beverages, railways, construction, tunnelling, printing, converting, airport management and aviation.

www.mackbrooks.com  

inter airport Europe 2011, the 18^th International Exhibition for Airport Equipment, Technology, Design and Services, opened its doors today. Renowned as the world’s leading trade exhibition for the international airport industry, inter airport Europe showcases a comprehensive range of products and services, whether for terminal, terminal-adjoining facilities, runway, apron or hangar. This year’s show features 606 exhibitors from 34 countries and covers two exhibition halls and the adjacent outdoor area at the Munich Trade Fair Centre.

During today’s Opening Ceremony, Stephen Brooks, Chairman of the organisers Mack Brooks Exhibitions; Dr Michael Kerkloh, President and CEO of Munich Airport, and Dieter Heinz, President of GATE, the German Airport Technology and Equipment Trade Association, addressed the audience.

“On the whole, 2011 has not been a bad year so far for the airport sector in Europe or for Munich Airport, even if the growth trend has lost some momentum in the second half as the economic outlook has become cloudier. At Munich Airport we can still report significant gains through the end of the third quarter as compared with the previous year. As compared with 2010, we had a huge 10 percent gain in total passenger traffic over the first nine months, and the number of take-offs and landings was up by 6 percent,” said Dr Kerkloh during the Opening Ceremony. 

Dieter Heinz gave a summary of inter airport’s history: “Since inter airport’s launch event some 35 years ago, the airport industry has developed from the stone age to the iron age - where rollers, ball mats, trolleys, trucks and ladders have been the centre of the show – the IT age into the security age. Today, carbon free and green airports are the focus of the industry and I am already wondering what age begins next. The objective should be to reach one day the stress-free airport in a peaceful global society.”

For the first time at this year’s show, inter airport Europe has awarded prizes for innovative exhibits in the four exhibition categories: interTERMINAL, interDATA, interRAMP and interDESIGN. Some ninety companies have sent in their applications. For the selection of the award winners, the organisers had appointed an independent jury of international airport experts: Ben Vogel, Editor of Jane’s Airport Review; Michael Zaddach, Head of IT Services at Munich Airport;  Martin Lamprecht, Publisher of Momberger Airport Information, and Greg Ballentine, Senior Aviation Planner and Architect, GENIVAR.

The inter airport 2011 Innovation Award in the category of interDATA went to Northrop Grumman, United Kingdom, for their innovation “ARC – Airport Realtime Collaboration”; an IT solution for airports that facilitates significant operational improvements, with positive results in efficiencies while reducing clomplexities.

In the interRAMP category, Israel Aerospace Industries was the winner for their product TAXIBOT, developed to limit airline greenhouse gas emissions. TAXIBOT is a pilot-controlled semi-robotic towing system that allows an aircraft to taxi without using its engines.

The prize for innovation in the area of interDESIGN was awarded to the Turkish company Tautmann for their “Stackable Wheelchair – Space Saver”; a product for air travellers with reduced mobility that ties into the look and feel of modern airport terminals. 

The fourth award in the category of interTERMINAL went to a product that has been developed jointly by two exhibitors: Dutch company Vanderlande Industries and German company Grenzebach Automation. “Integrated Robot Loading” is a baggage handling system that ensures a rapid and smooth flow of bags by minimising the need for staff to lift and shift them.

“Offering a large variety of new and enhanced products and services, this year’s inter airport Europe provides, once again, an excellent overview of what is available on a global scale. Many of the products and services on display at the show have just recently been developed and will be presented to a large audience for the very first time,” said Stephen Brooks, Chairman Mack Brooks Exhibitions, during the Awards Ceremony.

Visitors can discover the comprehensive range of exhibits on display at inter airport Europe 2011 until Friday, the 14^th October 2011 at the Munich Trade Fair Centre.

 inter airport Europe 2011 will be open from Tuesday, 11 October 2011, to Thursday, 13 October 2011, from 9.00 – 17.00, and on Friday, 14 October 2011, from 9.00 – 15.00. Entrance tickets are available at a favourable price via the online ticket shop on the inter airport Europe website www.interairport.com/europe Price for a day ticket via the online ticket shop is € 35; for a season ticket € 55; the on-site price of a day ticket is € 45; for a season ticket € 65. 

ENDS

Issued by:

Susanne Neuner, PR Director
inter airport Europe Press Office
Mack Brooks Exhibitions Ltd
Romeland House, Romeland Hill, St Albans, Herts AL3 4ET, United Kingdom 
Tel: +44 (0)1727 814400, Fax: +44 (0)1727 814401, E-Mail: press@interairport.com

Contact on-site in Munich (from Monday, 10th October 2011):
Press Office at inter airport Europe 2011, Munich Trade Fair Centre, Entrance Ost (East)
Susanne Neuner, PR Director
E-Mail: press@interairport.com; Tel. +49 (0)176 104 07738

From 11 – 14 October 2011 the world’s leading International Exhibition for Airport Equipment, Technology, Design & Services, inter airport Europe 2011, will open its doors at the Trade Fair Centre in Munich, Germany. Airport industry professionals from all over the world will come together at this event to discover a comprehensive range of the latest airport equipment and services, whether for terminal, terminal-adjoining facilities, runway, apron or hangar.

With this year’s theme “Inspiring better airports” the show will focus on innovative products and services, such as environment-friendly ground support equipment, automated baggage and freight handling systems, enhanced solutions for security check and explosives detection, optimised check-in systems, information tools for a more enjoyable stay at the airport as well as the latest mobile data solutions for the entire airport.

At this year’s exhibition, a total of 606 exhibitors from 34 countries cover a net exhibition space of 25.850 square metres net. The show has grown by more than 10% compared to the previous edition two years ago. “While two years ago the airport industry was still affected by the global economic crisis, it now seems that there is a certain catch-up effect, and airport operators, once again, invest in new and enhanced airport equipment. Today, the economic outlook for airport operators and manufacturers of airport equipment is certainly more positive again. However, it is rather cautious optimism, as the industry sector strongly depends on the global economic development which has a direct impact on passenger and freight figures,” says Nicola Hamann, Exhibition Director inter airport Europe on behalf of the organisers, Mack Brooks Exhibitions. 

The opening and awards ceremony for inter airport Europe 2011 will take place on Tuesday, 11 October 2011, at 11 am, in the entrance area of the exhibition, entrance Ost (East) of the Munich Trade Fair Centre. Dr. Michael Kerkloh, President and CEO Munich Airport; Dieter A. Heinz, President GATE - German Airport Technology & Equipment, and Stephen Brooks, Chairman Mack Brooks Exhibitions, will address the audience. For the first time inter airport Europe will acknowledge innovative exhibits in areas such as energy efficiency, intelligent passenger and freight handling, modern airports and environmental friendliness with the inter airport Europe 2011 Awards. Award winners have been selected by an international panel of industry experts. Prizes will be awarded during the opening and awards ceremony in the four exhibition categories: interTERMINAL, interDATA, interRAMP and interDESIGN. 

inter airport Europe 2011 will take place at the Munich Trade Fair Centre where it covers halls B5 and B6, directly linked with the spacious outdoor area for the presentation of large-scale exhibits such as de-icers, push-back tractors, snow sweepers and fire fighting vehicles. Entrance to the show will be entrance Ost (East) of Munich Trade Fair Centre.

inter airport Europe 2011 will be open from Tuesday, 11 October 2011, to Thursday, 13 October 2011, from 9.00 – 17.00, and on Friday, 14 October 2011, from 9.00 – 15.00. Entrance tickets are available at a favourable price via the online ticket shop on the inter airport Europe website www.interairport.com/europe Price for a day ticket via the online ticket shop is € 35; for a season ticket € 55; the on-site price of a day ticket is € 45; for a season ticket € 65.

The show website www.interairport.com/europe offers comprehensive information about the exhibitors and their products and services. The personalised floor planner and show plan helps visitors to plan their visit to the show. Smartphone users are now able to access the official mobile show guide for inter airport Europe from www.iae2go.com. An iPhone App is availabe for all iPhone users.

ENDS

Issued by:

Susanne Neuner, PR Director
inter airport Europe Press Office
Mack Brooks Exhibitions Ltd
Romeland House, Romeland Hill, St Albans, Herts AL3 4ET, United Kingdom 
Tel: +44 (0)1727 814400, Fax: +44 (0)1727 814401, E-Mail: press@interairport.com

 Contact on-site in Munich (from Monday, 10th October 2011):

Press Office at inter airport Europe 2011, Munich Trade Fair Centre, Entrance Ost (East)
Susanne Neuner, PR Director
E-Mail: press@interairport.com; Tel. +49 (0)176 104 07738  

Editorial note: High resolution photo material can be downloaded at  
http://www.interairport.com/europe/english/press/photos/

Press accreditation on-site or via http://www.interairport.com/europe/english/press/accreditation/

Dates are now confirmed for the fifth inter airport China exhibition of airport equipment, technology and services. The event will take place from 26 to 28 September 2012 at Beijing’s China International Exhibition Centre, the venue for the four previous highly successful shows in this series. More details can be found in the online brochure via the inter airport China website: www.interairportchina.com

Organised by Mack Brooks Exhibitions together with its partners in China, the Civil Aviation Supplies Holding Company (CAS) and China Civil Aviation Technology & Equipment Co Ltd (AVITEC), inter airport China 2012 is also approved by the Ministry of Commerce of the People’s Republic of China and the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC).

The last inter airport China exhibition, which took place in 2010, attracted leading international companies and an increased number of top Chinese firms. In all, 100 exhibitors from 14 countries took part in the show, which was visited by nearly 3,000 air transport industry professionals. Exhibitor feedback was very positive.

Having taken part in all previous inter airport China events, the German Airport Technology & Equipment group – GATE – in conjunction with the Federal Ministry of Economics and Technology, has already signalled its intention to coordinate a national pavilion at the 2012 show. A similar presence is expected by organisations representing other countries.

A key innovation in 2010 was the introduction of an outdoor display area for vehicles and larger pieces of equipment. For 2012, this display area will be greatly enlarged, with a highly attractive pricing package for exhibitors taking advantage of this facility.

Again the exhibition will provide valuable insight into future airport development in China with a ‘Meet the Buyers’ programme. Some CNY 450 billion (USD 65 billion) is to be spent on airport development, according to CAAC estimates. With senior Chinese government and airport officials outlining details of future investment projects, these sessions will provide exhibitors and visitors with essential pointers as to where business opportunities for suppliers of airport technology might be found and how the procurement process functions.

Mack Brooks Exhibitions is the leader in organising trade exhibitions for the airport sector, notably through its inter airport Europe shows. The next of these takes place in Munich, Germany, in October 2011. The company also stages inter airport India, most recently in Mumbai in March 2011.

For more information on inter airport China 2012 please contact:
Dan Wu, Exhibition Director
Tel: (+44 1727) 814 400
Fax: (+44 1727) 814 401
Email: china@interairport.com

Or visit the show website: www.interairportchina.com

For press information on inter airport China 2012 contact:

Ken Harris
Tel: (+44 1273) 300 434
Email: ken.harris@mackbrooks.co.uk

IPX Russia 2013 is the second event in the Adforum IPX series to be