Visitor and exhibitor feedback from September’s PPMA Total Show has firmly positioned it as one of the most highly valued in the UK events diary.
Playing host to over 350 stands and representing 2000 brands, the UK’s largest processing and packaging machinery, robotics and industry vision event was applauded for delivering an invaluable stage of technical innovation, as well as providing the perfect platform to learn, engage and seek expert advice. This year’s show hosted a significant number of new product launches and ‘first showings’ of the latest in production-efficient processes, automated solutions, robotics and vision systems. And this all catered for visitors from a wide range of sectors, including pharmaceuticals, food and beverage and FMCG to building and pet food suppliers and contract packers.
The opportunity to meet industry experts face-to-face, seek new opportunities, discover so much new technology and see so many live equipment demonstrations all under one roof is what really sets the PPMA Total Show apart from the rest; a fact not lost on Brian Povall-McMahon, site engineering manager for supermarket chain Morrisons. “I’m a great believer in getting out there, and these kinds of shows are perfect for that,” he said.
Meanwhile, Nicole Carr, project manager at PepsiCo added her own insight into the latest market offerings on display throughout the exhibition. “It’s nice to be able to get round and see all the new equipment… it’s good to see what other technologies are out in the market and see what other opportunities we can explore.”
Show visitors were also rewarded with a first-class seminar programme of informative and educational presentations and opinion-led industry insights centred around the theme ‘The Future Of…’. Compiled specifically to address the many challenges facing today’s UK industry, the topics ranged from the latest smart technologies and solutions, product testing and compliance, anti-counterfeiting, cyber security, workforce wellbeing and import regulations, through to sustainability, how to maximise efficiencies, minimise energy consumption and deliver cost savings.
“It is a great networking event and has everything you need in the processing and packaging arena,” said Roland Peacock, partner at Hitachi Prepared By New Code.
From its high calibre of visitors to the opportunities for new customer engagement and lead generation, exhibitors have been quick to praise the significance of attending the show in terms of its impact on business. According to Nicholas Cesare, technical sales director at Pace Mechanical Handling, “The calibre of customers that come through the doors is second to none.” While Tony Hunt, managing director at Cobalt was clear about why his company regularly exhibits, “We always generate new leads, with new customers every time we attend.”
Meanwhile Roy Green, managing director of Harford Control said, “It’s really the only exhibition in the UK worth coming to.”
Commenting on the diverse nature of the show’s offerings, and what his company, and his fellow exhibitors had to offer visitors this year, Paul Webster, national sales manager at Yamato said, “It’s a one-stop shop for our customers. We don’t provide every solution in the world, but every solution in the world is here.”
“It is both overwhelming and gratifying to receive such positive and encouraging feedback from visitors and exhibitors alike,” said Richard Little, PPMA Show Director. “We are delighted that once again, in its 34th year, PPMA Total Show has delivered an event that reaches into the very heart of our industry, addressing the needs of our members as well as delivering on the aspirations and expectations of our visitors.”
The PPMA Show 2023, will run from 26-28 September at the NEC, Birmingham.
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