THOUSANDS of visitors from across the country attended Machine Tools Africa eager to see the latest machinery, products, services and technologies that South Africa has to offer.
The show last took place seven years ago and there have been huge advancements made since that time.
Visitors were able to engage with 80 industry-leading exhibitors and their technical teams to learn about the latest global industry trends and technological developments in the machine tools market. The show took place at the Johannesburg Expo Centre from 21-24 May.
Machine tools are the backbone of the manufacturing industry providing essential equipment for the fabrication processes of all major manufacturing sectors, including automotive, aerospace, electronics, and energy. Machine Tools Africa is extremely important to this sector, the success and growth of which can contribute to the local economy and to creating jobs.
The machine tools industry must be able to bring these latest machines into the country and showcase what they can do.
“The number of machines on the show was mind-blowing,” says Charlene Hefer, portfolio director at Specialised Exhibitions, a division of Montgomery Group. “One of our exhibitors had 24 machines on their stand with 20 technical advisors and the machines were running the entire time throughout the show. Some of the machines on display at the show run into millions of rands. By its very nature it is a focused show.”
“We welcomed 6,500 visitors to the show over the four days, which was a 10% increase in visitors compared to the previous show. The quality of visitors has been really good. Many travelled from Cape Town and KwaZulu-Natal, in addition to those from Gauteng, and from other provinces. The feedback we have had from visitors and exhibitors has been very positive.”
“It was also great to have Sol-Tech with us this year,” continued Hefer. “They are a vocational training college, and it was good to see the kind of talent that they’re attracting to this industry, and to have those students come to the show to experience the kind of technology that is available. It was heartening to see many experts sharing their knowledge and expertise with young South Africans.”
Mike Lee, chairman of the Machine Tool Merchants’ Association (MTMA) says that the industry has been looking forward to the show for months. “We are delighted with the turnout of the show. There have been lots of quality visitors, really good exhibitors and a high number of overseas principals. It’s been very busy with lots of excitement and the customers that were here were very positive, which is good for our industry going forward.”
