Published on the 24/04/2018 | Written by Jonathan Cotton
Expect glad handing, big thinking and lots of synergy at this year’s NMW…
The event – Australia’s largest manufacturing showcase – will run from 9 to 11 May at the Sydney Showground, Sydney Olympic Park, bringing world-class speakers and best-in-show exhibitors together to discuss the industry trends and innovations. Last year’s event attracted over 10,000 attendees and this year looks to be bigger still, with 150 exhibitors expected.
The event will host 40 presenters and feature seminars, showcases, workshops and networking sessions. The exhibition area will also house more than 150 exhibitors and be divided into twelve product zones: advanced materials, additive manufacturing, automation and robotics, electrical, engineering, the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), machine tools, packaging and plastics, industrial safety, supply chain and logistics, warehousing and materials handling, and welding technology.
This year’s theme is ‘Where innovation meets opportunity’, with the program focusing on the impact of digital transformation, innovative design and business management in the manufacturing industry.
“With the introduction of new and emerging technologies, the manufacturing industry has become much more competitive,” says Greg O’Loan, regional vice president, Epicor Software, one of the exhibitors at the event.
“Rising energy costs and strong competition from overseas companies means Australian manufacturers need to continue to find efficiencies throughout their business to be able to grow. National Manufacturing Week brings together experts within the industry to discuss new ideas, solutions and processes that can help businesses make improvements, enhance efficiency, and boost productivity.”
Sarah Polhill, CIO for what must be arguably the most important manufacturer at the event, the Royal Australian Mint, will present on the Friday morning in the Industry 4.0 theatre. Polhill will share her insights on process improvements and organisational resilience to market disruptions. She will discuss the impact of disruption, fostering responsiveness and building a culture of innovation.
A free event for attendees, NMW 2018 will also feature a business matching programme which provides attendees a personalised itinerary of meetings and content sessions that match their specific needs and maximises their time onsite.
“National Manufacturing Week is Australia’s only fully integrated annual manufacturing exhibition, and provides an unrivaled opportunity for delegates to network, collaborate and learn from one another,” says 2018 Exhibition Director Robby Clark.
“Last year was one of our record events in Melbourne, with more than 10,000 attendees coming through the doors. We are ready for another great NMW in Sydney this year.”
