Additive Manufacturing: Formnext & Function

Since it launched early in the year, our additive manufacturing (AM) practice is going from strength to strength with a number of clients activity engaged in the 3D printing debate.

Last month, we were present at the TCT show for discussions with existing and prospective clients and to see and hear first-hand from the companies and academics shaping the industry. The many devices printing non-stop throughout the three days seemed to reflect the state of this sector - coalescing, shaping itself and growing quickly.

All eyes are now on formnext next month in Frankfurt, the next fixture on the AM calendar. We’ll also be there, working on behalf of a number of clients, as well as participating in the wider industry debate taking place there.

China Bets Big on AM

And then in the New Year, the industry reconvenes in Shanghai for TCT Asia. Our EMG China team will be on the ground, which promises to be equally exciting as its European and US counterparts.

Shanghai is the perfect location for this regional event, because China is betting big on AM and 3D Printing

Industry analyst IDC recently reported that 3D printer sales and shipments to China grew by an astounding 106% in 2016 from the previous year. Looking forward, IDC also expects the region to see a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of over 20 per cent in the period 2017-2021.
The Chinese government is also encouraging momentum locally. As part of the national Made in China 2025 strategy, the government is boosting research in the AM sector and establishing a network of 3D Printing innovation centres and developing expertise in bio-printing and medical device applications.
The annual AMCC (Additive Manufacturing Conference of China) this year, declared that the Chinese AM industry is now entering a fast-growth, concept to market introduction period.

As traditional manufacturing and industries and their supply chains continue to digitally transform at break neck speed, having a solid global AM/3D printing infrastructure in place is critical for future global trade and commerce opportunities.

If you’re planning visiting, exhibiting or launching products at formnext, there’s still time (just!) or find out more about AM in China and get in touch.