There is a clear, positive mood as anticipation mounts for the 21st edition of VITRUM.
Held in odd-numbered years, the biennial trade show is the highlight event for the entire glass industry supply chain. Pre-show data confirms the positive outlook: a 9 percent increase in total number of exhibitors, backed by a solid 21.37 percent rise in international stands, with 45 new exhibitors, including those returning after two or more years of absence, and an 11 percent upswing in net surface area occupied. The number of direct manufacturers of glass processing machinery, special products and accessories also grew 17 percent over the previous edition.
“If Vitrum 2017 marked the turning point,” stated Dino Zandonella Necca, President of Vitrum, “these figures reveal tangible growth for the Milan-based show. In planning the show, we paid close attention to all the feedback from visitors of Vitrum 2017 and from the various glass associations. We then focused on strengthening the quality of the product, in terms of technological content, ease of navigating the exhibits, and services that support the exhibitors and trade professionals. All in the spirit of creating business opportunities for a highly qualified visitor roster that knows it can find the best the world has to offer at a well-organized show designed just for them.”
Several innovations aimed at improving the show experience include the Vitrum Specialized categories, 12 themed pathways that allow visitors to instantly find the stands they are interested in and sharpen the opportunities to do business.
The innovative Agents and Representatives Area, located in Pavilion 7 (stand B07-B09), is a place where agents can register, indicating their availability, and manufacturers can seriously consider opening up new destinations for their products.
The calendar of Seminars has also been expanded and, at this edition, is open to technicians and glass professionals from around the world, with four meetings covering the key topics of interest to the glass processing community: from cyber security to machine compliance for international markets, from the most exciting innovations in the “What’s hot” seminar, to technical standards for the glass industry. All of the seminars will be held in the new Meeting Area in Pavilion 5 (Stand V21-Z30).
As always, Vitrum also honours glass history and culture.
The “Arte del vetro” Glass Art Area in Pavilion 7 (Stands A17-B18 and A21-B30) will lead visitors along a historical/artistic journey among prized examples of the ancient art of Murano glass.
The Vitrum Party on October 2nd is another amazing first. Under the magnificent Fuksas glass canopy in the Service Center, international DJ Kay Rush will set the mood for business to continue in a fun, relaxing atmosphere.