Registration for the UK’s Biggest 3D Technologies Event Hits Record High

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This year TCT Show + Personalize is celebrating its 20th anniversary and promises to be the best edition to date as registrations for the event, with just two weeks to go, hit record levels.  

As the world’s largest and most comprehensive dedicated 3D technologies event, the TCT show floor really is the only place to be in September, as the biggest players in the 3D printing industry come out in force to demonstrate their full range of capabilities. The biggest names in 3D printing — including industry champions Stratasys, EOS, EnvisionTEC, Renishaw, Materialise, SLM Solutions, Autodesk, Arcam, citim GmbH, Declam, ExOne, Höganäs, Proto Labs, Mcor, Makerbot, Roland DG, 3D Systems, DSM Somos, and Ultimaker — will all be present at TCT Show, bringing together the largest number of additive manufacturing technology manufacturers in one place. This year, TCT also boasts over 60 brand new exhibitors that have never before shown their products to a TCT audience. For a full list of exhibitors, click here.  

The newest and freshest talent of 3D printing can be explored in the Start Up Zone and through the TCT Introducing stage — an opportunity to see the very latest product launches from both first-time exhibitors and returning companies with something new to unveil. For the maker community, TCT welcomes back the RepRap Hub, a renowned hotbed for sharing ideas and making connections.

In the main conference arena, keynotes will kick off morning and afternoon sessions on both days of the show including: Al Siblani, CEO, EnvisionTec; J. Scott Schiller, Worldwide Director of 3D Printing, HP; Andy Middleton, President EMEA, Stratasys; Max Lobovsky, Founder & CEO, Formlabs; Dr Conor MacCormack, Co-founder and CEO, Mcor Technologies; and finally, Todd Grimm, President, T.A. Grimm & Associates.  


The rest of the sessions will cover the myriad applications of 3D technologies across a diverse range of industries. Day one features sessions focusing on Design, Prototyping and Manufacturing looking at the processes themselves; Day two will then cover applications of the technologies in the Transport, Healthcare, and Jewellery & Heritage sectors. For the full list of confirmed speakers, click here.  

The Technology Stage will feature a host of interesting and informative seminar sessions carefully crafted to educate both new and experienced users of 3D technologies. The ever-popular Introduction to Additive Technologies session will return to the show as well as industry-focused sessions on software, inspection, digitising and metrology. A new session for 2015 called Introducing the UL AM Training Curriculum will look at training standards in the 3D printing sector.  

Finally, making a welcome return to TCT Show will be TCT Inspired Minds in association with Black Country Atelier and 3D Systems, giving schoolchildren the chance to get hands-on 3D printing experience.  

Head of Content at TCT, James Woodcock, said:

“The 20th anniversary edition of TCT Show + Personalize was always going to be special and the whole team is exceptionally proud of the event we’ve put together for 2015. The TCT show floor has become the benchmark against which other shows are measured, and the conference stage attracts the biggest names in the industry year-on-year. To have all of this available free for visitors is an unparalleled achievement. We’ve seen an incredible evolution of 3D technologies in the last few years but TCT Show remains the very best place to see everything together under one roof.”


Industry Executives Bring Additive Manufacturing and 3D Printing Intelligence to Leading UK Show

Dr Hans Langer, CEO of EOS, was one of the executive keynotes at TCT Show + Personalize 2014

Dr Hans Langer, CEO of EOS, was one of the executive keynotes at TCT Show + Personalize 2014

EnvisionTEC, Hewlett-Packard, T. A. Grimm & Associates, Mcor, Formlabs, and Stratasys will take to the #TCTshow stage.

The TCT Show + Personalize Conference team has announced the 2015 Executive Keynote programme for the 20th edition of the industry-leading 3D technologies event. Introduced in 2013, the Executive Keynotes are part of the TCT conferences worldwide.  

The 2015 line up features: Al Siblani, CEO, EnvisionTEC; Scott Schiller, Worldwide Director 3D Printing, Hewlett-Packard; Max Lobovsky, CEO, Formlabs; Conor MacCormack, CEO, Mcor Technologies; Todd Grimm, President, T. A. Grimm Associates; Andy Middleton, President EMEA, Stratasys.  

Jim Woodcock, Head of Content at TCT commented: “We strive to bring fresh perspectives to the TCT conference stages year-on-year — something that’s made easier by the wealth of talented speakers available to us and the speed that this fascinating industry is developing. Our executive keynotes have decades of experience with 3D technologies between them (and sometimes decades each) but are all poised to have their biggest impacts in the years to come. Long-standing companies like EnvisionTEC, Stratasys and Mcor will share the stage with relative newcomers Formlabs and debutants HP — with Todd Grimm providing the energetic education that he has become famed for.”  

The strength of this year’s conference programme perfectly complements the exhibition, which is demonstrably the most comprehensive show floor dedicated to 3D technologies anywhere in the world. From desktop to workshop to production floor, TCT Show + Personalize is the only place to see all of the technologies that matter.

Watch highlights from last year's event in the TCT Show Conference 2014 Gallery.


TCT Show + Personalize 2015 & formnext powered by TCT 2015 - Call for Speakers

Rapid News Communications Group (RNCG), the company behind the whole TCT portfolio, has announced the Call for Speakers for both the 2015 edition of TCT Show + Personalize, being held 30th Sept – 1st Oct at the NEC, Birmingham, and formnext powered by TCT, the trade show for tool making and additive technologies/3D printing taking place in Frankfurt, Germany from 17th–20th November 2015.

TCT Show + Personalize is by far the biggest concentration of design, development, manufacturing and engineering professionals in the UK at any time in 2015. For 20 years TCT Show + Personalize has been the leading show in additive manufacturing and has welcomed the most distinguished speakers and commentators in the industry on to its stage.


Following the recently announced long-term strategic partnership between formnext, organized by Mesago Messe Frankfurt GmbH and the TCT group, part of RNCG, it has been agreed that the conference programme will be organised and delivered by TCT’s experienced and well-connected team. The combination of both organisations facilitates a high-level two-day conference with international speakers running in parallel to the show.

The two events will build on the huge success of TCT’s conferences in the UK, Asia and at International CES in Las Vegas. Accordingly, the organisers are now looking for insightful, educational and entertaining presentations from industry leaders, evangelists, commentators and super users who can shine the spotlight on the technologies and signpost how they will develop in the future.

Presentations on any topic relating to where the physical and digital worlds intersect will be considered, with emphasis on 3D printing, additive manufacturing and product development specifically.

TCT Show + Personalize 2015 takes place at the NEC, Birmingham, UK on September 30th - October 1st 2015. Formnext takes place in Frankfurt, Germany from 17th – 20th November 2015. All submissions must come with confirmation that the proposed speaker is able to attend on specified dates.

A working title, 200 word synopsis and speaker credentials are requested no later than April 30th 2015. Submissions should be sent to James Woodcock, Conference Director via james@rapidnews.com.

Introducing: formnext powered by TCT

The organizer of formnext, Mesago Messe Frankfurt GmbH and the organizer of TCT Show + Personalize, Rapid News Publications Ltd, have agreed on a long-term strategic partnership. The trade show for tool making and additive technologies/3D printing taking place in Frankfurt, Germany from 24. – 27. November, 2015 will be substantially strengthened by this. This fact is underlined by the new brand of “formnext powered by TCT”.

“This partnership offers additional strength to the formnext concept, creating a very attractive, international and long-lasting trade show concept,” says Johann Thoma, CEO of Mesago Messe Frankfurt. “The benefits to the additive technologies/3D printing sector are most obvious, but the tool making sector stands to gain from the innovative partnership.”

Advantage for every participant
The combination of both organizations facilitates a high-level two day conference with international speakers running in parallel to the show. Duncan Wood, COO of Rapid News points out the advantage of the strategic partnership for every participant: “Mesago and Rapid News Publications have come together to work with and for the wider industry. Our research highlighted the requirement for an annual event, in a global hub, with trusted organisers. formnext powered by TCT will deliver this and more, giving the industry a stable international platform from which to continue its unprecedented growth. The conference program organized by TCT’s experienced and well-connected team will be highly attractive for attendees from all over the world. We will bring over 20 years of expertise in the additive technologies/3D printing sector to bear. We have a deep understanding of the trends, innovations and are well connected to the world’s finest speakers.”

The conference program will not only focus on additive technologies/3D printing, but will also follow the trends and latest insights on the area of tool making. Johann Thoma concludes: “The combination of a substantial exhibition and an expansion of the well-respected TCT conference series will make formnext powered by TCT the place to be for additive technologies/ 3D printing and tool making. Knowledge meets expertise, expertise meets customers. A platform that can be a benefit for everyone involved."

formnext powered by TCT will take place in Hall 3, one of the most modern halls of the Frankfurt exhibition centre and one of the most spectacularly designed halls in the world. The combination of modern architecture and innovative functionality contributes to the ideal presentation platform for exhibitors and a pleasing tradeshow experience for visitors. The Frankfurt fairground is easily reachable via excellent international and local transportation links.

For further information please contact Duncan Wood or James Woodcock

 

Rapid News Communications Group Concludes Interplas Acquisition from Reed Exhibitions

Chester, UK, November 14th, 2014: Rapid News Communications Group is delighted to announce that it has concluded the purchase of Interplas from Reed Exhibitions UK.

Interplas is the UK’s largest plastics industry exhibition and the only UK event to cover all of the manufacturing processes, technologies and services within the plastics industry. Under the management of Rapid News since 2011, the event has undergone a remarkable turnaround with visitors, exhibitors and floorspace all increasing during both the 2011 and recent 2014 editions.

The purchase, for an undisclosed amount, concludes a period of licence during which Rapid News have revitalised the event. Much of this success can be attributed to the unique position Rapid News holds operating the key European plastics publications British Plastics and Rubber (BP&R), European Plastic Product Manufacturer (EPPM) and Medical Plastics News (MPN). The strength of audience reach offered by these media brands, along with a deep history in the sector built on long-term relationships, has accelerated the return of the event to the standout plastics event in the UK.

Commenting on the acquisition by Rapid News Communications Group, Philip Law, Director-General of the British Plastics Federation, said: “Interplas now has a clear direction and confidence in the future. It is a further step in the process of making the UK a 'go to place' globally for plastics technology and products.”

Nigel Flowers, Chairman of the Polymer Machinery Manufacturers and Distributors Association (PMMDA), said: “From both the PMMDA and UK polymer industry viewpoint it is great news that Interplas has now found a permanent ‘home’ in the Rapid News portfolio. The market needs a showcase event, and this is found in Interplas. It has been especially encouraging to see Interplas flourish this year and we are confident that this success will continue under Rapid’s control.”

Duncan Wood, C.O.O and Event Director at Rapid News Communications Group, commented: “Interplas has continued its resurgence under our management this year and we are delighted now to formally announce the conclusion of the acquisition and officially add it to our already strong plastics portfolio, strengthening our commitment to the UK and wider European plastics industry. 2014 represented a second consecutive edition with solid growth on all the key metrics of number of visitors, exhibitors and space sold and we now have a fantastic foundation which to build the event and we look forward to working with our partners, exhibitors and key associations such as the BPF and PMMDA to develop a world class showcase for the UK plastics industry in 2017."

Interplas 2017 takes place at the NEC, Birmingham, UK on September 26th-28th, 2017.

About Interplas
Interplas is the UK’s largest plastics industry exhibition and the only UK event to cover all of the manufacturing processes, technologies and services within the plastics industry. Operating on a tri-annual basis, the next edition will take place in 2017 and will comprise 400 exhibitors with an attendance approaching 12,000. Visit the website at www.interplasuk.com and follow the event on twitter @interplasuk

Serious selling and high spirits during three-day show

The three days of Interplas saw buzzing halls and high spirits as well as some major stand sales, testament to the positivity felt in the industry.

Visitor numbers and footfall was up, with the organisers saying the show an attracted over 10,400 attendees (pending BPA audit) for its 2014 edition, a number that represents growth of 10 percent against 2011 figures alongside increased exhibitor numbers and an expanded show floor.

International attendance at Interplas also increased in 2014, with visitors from 56 countries travelling to the NEC, Birmingham, underlining the importance of the UK plastics sector on the world stage.

“Interplas has continued its resurgence under our management, and 2014 represents a second consecutive edition with solid growth on all the key metrics of number of visitors, exhibitors and space sold,” commented Duncan Wood, COO and Event Director for the show.

“The key to the continued resurgence of Interplas under the management of Rapid News is the level of business created and executed at the event. The post-show feedback this year, has been unequivocally positive in this area.”

Testament to this, Romi Machines UK announced it had sold some 14 machines on the first day of Interplas alone, Richard Hird of Premier Moulding Machinery said that the company had sold four machines and PMS UK sold its Borsche BS150 moulding machine straight off its stand.

Also selling directly off his stand was Kevin Horne, Managing Director of Renmar UK, whose three AEC gravimetric blenders were being taken straight from the NEC to UK manufacturer, Chess Plastics, in Droitwich.

“We’ve had a really good show – the footfall has been excellent and it’s the first time I’ve sold the machinery on display straight off the stand,” Horne told BP&R.

“We’ve invested a lot in our stand this year. Three years ago we couldn’t have justified the cost, as people were coming to look and not buy. Now, however, people are coming ready to purchase machinery and equipment, they are looking at the technology on the stand and asking about lead times and when we can deliver.”

Materials exhibitors were also full of positive news, with Plastribution’s Duncan Scott stating that the show had resulted in several new customer projects and lots of detailed enquiries.

“This is the best Interplas I’ve been to in years. People are here because they want to be,” commented Scott. “We’ve had constant enquiries from potential new customers. There is certainly more optimism about the industry now.”

Over at Resin Trade, the company said the public reaction to its new marketing campaign had been positive and pleasing, with the stand “constantly busy” with enquiries throughout the course of the show.

“We wanted a modern representation of an industry that itself is becoming more modern,” explained Alex Nunn, Marketing Manager at Resin Trade.

“We’ve been inundated with enquiries at the show that are for forward-thinking projects that are more focused on 10 years into the future than stuck 10 years in the past. We want to reflect that modernity with our branding and Interplas was the perfect place to introduce it.”

Manufacturer of antimicrobial and detectable solutions, SteriTouch, exhibited for the first time at Interplas in 2014 and says it is already looking forward to the next show.

“Interplas exceeded all of our expectations,” said Joanna Wilson of SteriTouch. “The atmosphere was great, and we were kept constantly busy with enquiries for the full three days, with interest from a real variety of companies with antimicrobial and detectable requirements for a broad list of applications, from food packaging to flooring.”

Finally, those providing services and consultancy also said interest was high. “We have nearly filled our enquiries book and have had loads of good leads,” said Alex Miles of the British Plastics Federation.

Over at BBE recruitment, Nigel Hyde said having not exhibited at the show since 1999, the company was “very impressed” with attendance and said they’d had a successful show.

PlastikCity was also feeling the buzz, stating that it felt its stand was “one of the busiest at the show,” and said that the numbers in attendance, as well as the high spirits of visitors, was “a clear indication of the positive state of our industry.”

Horsham-based manufacturer of injection-moulded products, Pentagon Plastics, said its first time exhibiting at Interplas had been "a great success."

“This was our first three-day event and it has provided us with valuable new contacts and an informal opportunity to welcome existing customers to the stand. It has also proved a real benefit to touch base with some of our own key suppliers gaining information on other services that they offer that may be of assistance to our own business going forward," said Managing Director, Paul Edwards.

“The busy and vibrant event was well attended and we look forward to exhibiting when it returns in three years time.’’

Interplas 2014: UK plastics event kicks off in 2 weeks!

Chester, UK, September 16th, 2014: After months of preparation, Interplas 2014 is set to open in just two weeks.

With an expanded, sold-out floor plan and visitor numbers anticipated to be in excess of 12,000 plastics industry professionals, students, media and investors from every corner of the world, the anticipation for what has been billed the 'must attend' plastics industry trade show is palpable.

In addition to featuring a show floor that is not only one-third larger than 2011's outing, but will feature exhibitions from the biggest names in the industry, organisers Rapid News Communications Group have plenty up their sleeves for the triennial event, which will run for three days from September 30th to October 2nd at the NEC, Birmingham, UK.

Duncan Wood, COO and Event Director, commented: "Thanks to the big names that have signed up from all over the world to exhibit and speak at this key industry event, Interplas 2014 is set to live up to the hype as the 'must-attend' British plastics fair of the year. Our excitement has been building for months and the hard work that has gone into piecing this show together will be apparent from the moment the doors open."

The conference side of Interplas will be given an auspicious start, with Philip Law, Director General of the British Plastics Federation (BPF), commencing proceedings in the opening keynote. On Day Two, Shadow Minister for Industry Iain Wright MP will deliver the key address, covering the state of British industry and how the Commons are supporting businesses.

In addition to the firebrands of academia and industry taking to the stage in Theatre One, visitors can look forward to specialised talks in Theatre Two, with a medical focus in association with Medical Plastics News on October 1st, and the NetComposites polymer industry session on October 2nd. For more details on the conference sessions, click here.

On the show floor, visitors can turn detective in Interplas 2014's special MoDiP exhibition of iconic pieces from the history of design in plastics, where they will be asked to piece together unusual facts about everyday objects. Furthermore, attendees can be thrilled and entertained by artist Glenn West's 'Melting Plastic Art' - a live demonstration of how he melts polyethylene and plastic sheet into large contemporary paintings.

Visitors have all of this in addition to the exciting exhibits on the show floor from the likes of Arburg, Engel, Demag, Summit Systems, Romi Sandretto, Ferromatik, Bayer MaterialScience, Albis and Boy. For the full list of confirmed exhibitors, click here.

In addition to being opened by the BPF, the Polymer Machinery Manufacturers and Distributors Association (PMMDA) has thrown its support behind Interplas 2014, along with the GTMA and Materials KTN, with trailblazing industry publication British Plastics and Rubber (BP&R) returning to the Interplas as official lead media partner.

Leanne Taylor, Group Editor, BP&R, Rapid News Communications Group, commented: "British Plastics and Rubber is thrilled to once again be headline media partner to Interplas 2014. The amount of exhibitors, across the entire industry spectrum that are launching new products, bringing new and exciting technology and showing the most highly specialised equipment is a clear indication of the importance placed on the event by the plastics sector. Topped off with a seminar programme that is informative, educational and a vehicle for learning, as well as unique and unusual features and events, this year’s outing is set to be something extra special."

Interplas 2014 takes place at the NEC, Birmingham, UK on September 30th-October 2nd 2014

TCT Bright Minds Program Extends to Euromold

On the back of a hugely successful UK programme TCT Bright Minds will make its debut at Euromold this year.

The TCT Magazine + Personalize, 3D Systems Corporation and Black County Atelier have announced that they will partner with Euromold organisers DEMAT to bring the innovative program to the heart of Hall 11 at the event that will see over 200 schoolchildren get real hands-on technology experience in Frankfurt/Main.

Building on a successful UK programme that has been running at the TCT event for many years, the TCT Bright Minds UK programme sees a glass walled classroom built in the heart of the exhibition and throughout the show hundreds of schoolchildren have their chance to use CAD and 3D Printing technologies in a workshop setting. Black Country Atelier will run the classroom sessions with the equipment being provided free-of-charge by 3D Systems. For the Euromold edition the range of technologies covered will include 3D scanning, a haptic based 3D mouse and 3D printers.

As 3D printing becomes an increasingly popular tool for teaching STEM-related subjects, the Bright Minds program incorporates a course developed by Black Country Atelier. Pupils will be able to apply real world design and manufacture thinking into their work using a range of technologies that reflect the importance of an integrated set of tools in the classroom and an ecosystem that includes not only technology, but teacher training and the new curriculum.

Duncan Wood, Chief Operating Officer at Rapid News Communications Group commented “The TCT Bright Minds UK programme has come of age in the last few years with hundreds of excited participants getting a real hands on experience of the technologies that TCT Show + Personalize specialises in. We think inspiring the next generation is important and the extension of this program into Germany at Euromold in partnership with our friends at DEMAT GmbH is extremely exciting. I can't thank our partners enough for their contribution to the initiative, and for continuing to work with us as the program expands into new territories. They have enabled us to have a real impact on a growing number of students and we are delighted to be able to work together with both BCA and 3D Systems again and continue to inspire the next generation of designers and engineers, this time in Germany”

Jing Lu, Director at BCA, added: “We are excited to bring 3D printing education to Euromold. 3D design innovation skills are vital to industries globally and we look forward to working with local schools and colleges.”

Cathy Lewis, Chief Marketing Officer of 3D Systems, stated: "We are excited to partner once again with Rapid News, TCT and BCA on this powerful education initiative, and are delighted to bring it to Frankfurt with Euromold organisers DEMAT. We are committed to bringing 21st century tools, programmes and technologies to students and schools across the globe and this program extension helps us further realize this goal.”

Euromold Project Manager Frank Santo stated “We as a society have the responsibility to bring our next generation close to new technical developments so that they can make the first and important experiences early. Together with our cooperation partners The TCT Magazine, 3D Systems Corporation and Black Country Atelier we will offer our German pupils the chance getting in contact with latest 3D technology and technical innovations in this industry section professionally. We are very delighted to present and establish this educational event at EuroMold 2014 for the very first time and we hope this event may be the occasion 3D technology lessons can beheld directly in German schools in future.”

The programme is designed for young students of High Schools and Secondary Schools in Germany. Each session will last approximately two hours and will also give all participants entry to EuroMold 2014

TCT + Personalize 2014 Welcomes 3D Hubs Community

TCT Show + Personalize is proud to announce the first 3D Hubs UK Maker Meetup is to take place at the leading 3D printing and additive manufacturing event.

This collaboration will see the Dutch start-up host one of its renowned community gatherings on the show floor, inviting hobbyists, creatives, beginners, businesses and anybody else with a curiosity and flair for 3D printing to participate.

3D Hubs is home to the fastest-growing community of makers on the planet, connecting its members with the 6,000 3D printers on its global platform, giving more than 750 million people access to the technology from within a 10-mile radius of their home.

Bram de Zwart, 3D Hubs CEO and co-founder, stated: "TCT Show for us is one of the most exciting shows to be at. It is a great opportunity to catch up on the latest in 3D printing and hang out with the 3D Hubs community. By hosting one of our bigger 3D Hubs events at the show, we can work together with our community towards the future of digital manufacturing."

The 19th edition of the annual TCT Show anticipates 200 exhibitors and 10,000 visitors, and will take place once again at the NEC in Birmingham, where event organisers have ensured the growing Maker Movement is celebrated alongside the industrial and consumer-driven sides of the maturing 3D printing industry.

In addition to the 3D Hubs Maker Meetup, makers can explore the expanded RepRap Hub and take in engaging speaker sessions such as TCT Introducing. 3D Hubs top brass will kick off this new feature on the stage, where they will reveal a little more about this industry-disrupting enterprise and its plans for the future.

Daniel O'Connor, Associate Editor of TCT Magazine + Personalize, said: "This partnership with 3D Hubs is one I am particularly excited about. Having recently visited their HQ and seen a Maker Meetup in full swing, it only felt right that TCT Show + Personalize joined forces to bring our communities together. For the 3D Hubs community, who are proven 3D printing users, it presents an exciting opportunity for them to see the latest and greatest technology."

 

Reebok and Under Armour Present 3D Printing in Wearables at TCT Show + Personalize 2014

TCT Show + Personalize is proud to be hosting its first dedicated conference session on wearables presented by international sports kit giant Reebok and vanguard of specialist athletic clothing Under Armour.

Wearable technology is one of the most talked-about developments in 3D printing this year, as more innovators turn to the leading technology to both improve consumer goods and make their manufacture more efficient, which is why TCT is targeting this key growth area in a specialist conference session.

TCT Show + Personalize Conference Director James Woodcock stated: "Wearables and 3D printing are two of the hottest topics in the tech world at the moment and demonstrate significant convergence. Wearables are best when they're customised, and the manufacturing freedoms allowed by 3D printing and additive manufacturing are a perfect fit."

Reebok RP Lab Manager and AMUG Advisor Gary Rabinovitz will unearth how the sports brand has been using 3D printing for years. Reebok is a 3D printing early adopter, utilising additive manufacturing for rapid prototyping for the best part of two decades. The globally-recognised brand has a long and successful history with the technology, using 3D Systems machines to create models for sports shoes, a prototyping process that saves the company both time and money, preventing the need for later modifications.

Under Armour's Senior Innovation Manager Alan Guyan is the company's 3D printing expert. The Baltimore-headquartered business is using leading-edge additive manufacturing to create the most advanced sportswear on the market, using 3D printing to optimise footwear, clothing and accessories for various sports and activities both at prototype stage and with the final product.

"While the true manufacture of wearables through 3D printing may be some years away, both Reebok and Under Armour have extensive experience of additive technologies in the design, development and prototyping phases in the wider sports apparel markets," Woodcock continued. "Both companies will deliver a unique insight into the part 3D printing is playing - an increasingly important role in diverse product development niches."

TCT Show's 2014 outing is set to be the biggest ever, extending across three days from September 30th to October 2nd and with almost 200 of the biggest names in 3D printing exhibiting on the packed show floor. Organisers anticipate 10,000 attendees from over 50 countries will visit the event to take in the stands, seminars and keynote sessions.

TCT Show + Personalize 2014 takes place at the NEC, Birmingham, UK on September 30th-October 2nd 2014.

Horners' Award winner to be announced at Interplas

The Horners' Award for Plastics Innovation and Design will be announced on the first day of Interplas 2014, it has been announced.

This Industry-recognised accolade is promoted in conjunction with the British Plastics Federation and is handed out annually to recognise imaginative and innovative contributions to the development of plastics and its applications.

Winners of the Horners' Award can include outstanding and original machines, processes and products, with entries reviewed by a panel of judges who assess each entry's significance for the UK market through its inventive and appropriate use of plastics.

Previous winners include the Airbus A350 XWB Composite Rear Spar developed by GKN Aerospace, the Cycloc Secure Bicycle Storage System by Andrew Lang Product Design and the Vent-Axia Air Minder.

Interplas 2014 organiser Rapid News Communications Group has welcomed the news that this year's outing - which takes place at the NEC, Birmingham, UK, from September 30th to October 2nd - will be playing host to the major plastics industry prize-giving, which the show’s orgnisers say serves to highlight Interplas as the “must-attend” event in the plastics industry calendar.

This year, the triennial expo will feature more than 400 exhibitors on an expanded show floor and include an exceptional roll call of speakers set to engage, educate and inspire many of the 12,000-strong crowds of expected attendees, with British Plastics and Rubber (BP&R) covering the event in its entirety as lead media partner.

"Awarded for innovation in plastics design and manufacture or in the processing of plastics, some of the industry's most innovative and forward-thinking products have previously won the Horners' Award," said Leanne Taylor, Editor of BP&R. "The fact that the winning design will be announced at Interplas will give the product a fantastic platform for not only deserved recognition and exposure to the industry, but also the potential for future development."

Jack Bunyer, Master of The Horners Company, said: "The Horners' Award is a prestigious accolade with a number of valuable commercial benefits attached. Last year we saw a record number of entrants all demonstrating high levels of innovation and exemplary creativity in design. The calibre of entrants year after year demonstrates its uniqueness and how vital it is to promote all that design in plastics stands for."

Application forms are available to download from www.hornersaward.co.uk and entries for the award must be received by the deadline of 25th July 2014.

Interplas 2014 takes place at the NEC, Birmingham, UK on September 30th-October 2nd 2014.

TCT + Personalize Asia to launch in Shanghai

Chester, UK, and Shanghai, China, May 29th, 2014: Rapid News Communications Group and VNU Exhibitions Asia are delighted to announce the debut edition of TCT + Personalize Asia, which will take place from March 12th - 14th 2015 at the Shanghai Convention & Exhibition Center of International Sourcing.

Over the last 20 years Rapid News Communication Group (RNCG) has helped define the 3D printing and additive manufacturing industry for European and US audiences with the TCT + Personalize portfolio. RNCG was the first company to publish a commercial publication, TCT Magazine, on the subject back in 1992, and the one of first to produce an event dedicated to the technologies in 1995 with TCT Show + Personalize.

In partnership with VNU Exhibitions, the TCT + Personalize brand will make its Shanghai debut in March 2015. The launch edition of this exciting event will build on the highly successful TCT Show + Personalize format in the UK and is set to become the definitive additive manufacturing, 3D printing and product development technology show in Asia.

The media explosion around 3D printing has heralded unprecedented interest in the technologies that have been central to TCT for two decades. Creative sectors such as art and design, fashion, architecture and the maker movement are embracing the exciting possibilities afforded by additive manufacturing and 3D printing. TCT Asia will further demonstrate what is really possible using this incredible technology.

The TCT + Personalize portfolio's strength lies in the breadth and depth of coverage, which includes not only additive manufacturing and 3D printing, but hardware and software for 3D scanning and digitising, inspection and metrology, design, development and manufacturing. This winning combination of core complementary technologies will populate the TCT Asia exhibition and conference.

Daben Mao, Managing Director, VNU Exhibitions Asia, stated: "With over 20 years' experience in China, VNU Exhibitions Asia has established a range of world-class show brands in China together with its international partners. We've been seeking opportunities in growth sectors, which fit in China's dynamic and vigorous market. TCT Asia fits this profile.

"We are proud to introduce the TCT brand to China together with Rapid News Communications Group. TCT Show + Personalize is by far the most complete and professional exhibition in the 3D printing space with outstanding content and conference programmes. We look forward to replicating the successful UK model in Shanghai next year. The world is looking at China and China is looking at Shanghai. For those who do not like to miss the next economic upsurge in China, Shanghai 2015 is the perfect opportunity."

Duncan Wood, COO of RNCG, which owns the TCT brand, added: "We are excited to be taking TCT + Personalize to Shanghai in 2015. We recognise the demand in China and the surrounding region for intelligence and information about these exciting technologies. Our trusted brand, along with VNU's experience and expertise in the territory, makes for a formidable team and we look forward to the debut show next year. This is the first step in a planned global expansion of TCT + Personalize and we welcome partners globally to make contact with us to explore these opportunities."

About VNU Exhibitions
Since 1917, VNU Exhibitions Europe, affiliated to Royal Dutch Jaarbeurs has organised trade fairs in Europe, making it one of Europe's longest-established exhibition specialists. VNU Exhibitions has been active in China since 1993, when the country's exhibition industry started to take off. It was one of the earliest joint venture exhibition companies in China. Currently the company has offices in Shanghai, Beijing and Guangzhou, hosting more than 20 exhibitions and conferences each year. The company is a member of the Union of International Fairs and "Level A Qualification Unit" of the Shanghai Conference and Exhibition Association.

Forthcoming TCT Events
TCT Show + Personalize, September 30th - October 2nd 2014, NEC, Birmingham, UK
TCT Magazine + Personalize @ International CES, January 2015, LVCC, Las Vegas, USA
TCT + Personalize Asia, March 12th -15th 2015, SHCEC, Shanghai, China.

 

 

Interplas 2014 - PMMDA Flying The Flag For British Plastics Show

Chester, UK, May 8th, 2014: Leading British plastics event Interplas is proud to announce its partnership with supporting organisation PMMDA.

PMMDA's involvement in what is fast becoming the 'must attend' plastics show of 2014 reaffirms why Interplas is the unmissable event of the year and why it is relevant to the entire industry. Organisers Rapid News Communications Group welcomes PMMDA's endorsement, flying the flag for British plastics at the triennial event, which this year features an outstanding line-up of top flight speakers and a buzzing show floor of more than 400 exhibitors from September 30th-October 2nd at the NEC in Birmingham.

Originally formed in 1996 from eight founder companies in polymer machinery manufacturing and distribution, PMMDA's mission is to set the standards of UK manufacturers and distributors of foreign machinery.

The group has grown to more than 30 members in polymers, plastics and related technologies and continues to provide a mark of superior quality, with members fulfilling criteria proving their authority in the marketplace and working together to develop EU and ISO standards for the entire sector. It is this indicator of excellence that makes PMMDA's endorsement of Interplas so significant.

Nigel Flowers, PMMDA Chairman, commented: "PMMDA is the Trade Association for machinery manufacturers and distributors within the Polymer Industry in the UK. Member companies carry the stamp of approval for sales, service and spares, and are pleased to be supporting Interplas 2014. Our members are confident that over the last 50 years Interplas has fully established itself in the UK, offering plastics industry professionals the opportunity to view and compare the widest range of machinery in action, covering every aspect of plastics manufacturing equipment."

Duncan Wood, COO and Event Director, Rapid News Communications, added: "We are delighted once again to have the support of the PMMDA and its members for Interplas this year. To date we have 26 member companies confirmed on the expanded 2014 floorplan and we hope to add additional members in due course. The PMMDA's support for the event is indicative of the strength of a resurgent Interplas and reaffirms the event as the leading event for the UK plastics industry. We look forward to a fruitful partnership in the run up to September and beyond."

Interplas 2014 takes place at the NEC, Birmingham, UK, on September 30th-October 2nd 2014. Visitors can register for free at www.interplasuk.com/register.html.

About Interplas
Interplas is the UK’s largest plastics industry exhibition and the only event to cover all of the manufacturing processes, technologies and services within the plastics industry.

Under the new management of Rapid News Communications Group, the 2011 event was hailed as a resounding success by exhibitors and visitors alike placing the show firmly back on the map as a must attend event for the British plastics industry. The anticipation of a further revitalised Interplas in 2014 is clearly evident with over 400 exhibiting companies set to display to over 12,000 attendees.

About PMMDA
Having formed almost 50 years ago, PMMDA remains a well-respected Trade Association within the UK Plastics Industry. As a group of machinery suppliers, PMMDA members must be able to demonstrate that their equipment is well established in the UK market or in its country of origin before acceptance into the Association. With over 30 member companies, PMMDA therefore represents a substantial industrial force within the plastics machinery market.

As well as maintaining its main pillars of quality and service, the Association also acts as an information source for members and their customers, with regular newsletters keeping its readers up to date on information relevant to the industry.

 

TCT Show + Personalize 2014 Proudly Presents Brooklyn Rising - The Story, Philosophy & Future Of MakerBot

'Brooklyn Rising - The Story, Philosophy and Future of MakerBot' will be presented by both CEO Bre Pettis and President Jenny Lawton to an audience of hundreds at TCT Show + Personalize 2014, which takes place from September 30th to October 2nd 2014 at the NEC, Birmingham, UK.

Pettis co-founded MakerBot in January 2009 in Brooklyn, New York, with a mission to create affordable, open-source 3D printers. The CEO's teaching, arts and media background has undoubtedly helped to shape the multi-million dollar brand into what it is today, with three retail stores in New York City, Boston and Greenwich, Connecticut.

Lawton has been with MakerBot since 2011 and has overseen the company's growth, retail and product development strategies. She was promoted to President in June 2013, when 3D printing industry giant Stratasys acquired the desktop 3D printing manufacturer and consumer 3D printing brand for $403 million (£241.7 million, €293.4 million).

The MakerBot story has fascinated the 3D printing sphere and wider tech media for some time because of its motivational story, creative products and attractive, easy-to-use 3D printing technology. This unusual ensemble presentation format aims to offer the event's diverse audience of innovators, press, designers, engineers, students and industry representatives something different from the usual keynote session.

'Brooklyn Rising' seeks to inspire the audience with MakerBot's tale of entrepreneurship, the challenges it has had to overcome and how the start-up mentality can still apply to a growing, globally-recognised company.

This will be the 19th edition of the annual TCT Show, the UK's leading 3D printing, additive manufacturing and product development event. The show will run for three days this year and looks set to eclipse last year's outing, showcasing nearly 200 exhibitors and up to 10,000 visitors from over 50 countries.

Bre Pettis and Jenny Lawton will be joining EOS founder and CEO Dr Hans Langer and CEO of Materialise Wilfried Vancraen on the keynote speaker line up, which will offer visitors the widest and most informed view of the maturing 3D printing industry.

Duncan Wood, COO of Rapid News Communications Group, which organises TCT Show + Personalize, stated: "We are delighted to have Bre and Jenny joining us this year for TCT Show + Personalize. The MakerBot story is one of the most interesting technology stories of our time, and to have the leading players in its journey live on stage with us in September is fantastic for our attendees. The inspiration, evangelism and can-do attitude that pours from the MakerBot brand is sure to resonate with our audience and make this a must-attend session at the event."

TCT Show + Personalize 2014 takes place at the NEC, Birmingham, UK on September 30th-October 2nd 2014.

More speakers and TCT Show + Personalize 2014 news will be announced in the weeks and months to come, including the full keynote speaker line up and speaker sessions.

For further information on the programme please contact James Woodcock, Rapid News Communications Group.

Tel: +44 (0) 1244 680222, Email: james@rapidnews.com

About MakerBot
MakerBot, a subsidiary of Stratasys, Ltd., is leading the Next Industrial Revolution by setting the standards in reliable and affordable desktop 3D printing. Founded in 2009, MakerBot has built the largest installed base of desktop 3D printers sold to innovative and industry-leading customers worldwide, including engineers, architects, designers, educators and consumers. The MakerBot 3D Ecosystem drives accessibility and rapid adoption of 3D printing and includes: Thingiverse.com, the MakerBot Digitizer Desktop 3D Scanner, the MakerBot Replicator line of Desktop 3D Printers, MakerWare software, MakerCare, the MakerBot retail stores, and strategic partnerships with top-tier brands. Join the Next Industrial Revolution by following MakerBot at makerbot.com.

About Stratasys
Stratasys Ltd. (Nasdaq: SSYS), headquartered in Minneapolis, Minn. and Rehovot, Israel, manufactures 3D printers and materials for prototyping and production. The company's patented FDM® and PolyJetTM3D Printing technologies produce prototypes and manufactured goods directly from 3D CAD files or other 3D content. Systems include 3D printers for idea development, prototyping and direct digital manufacturing. Stratasys subsidiaries include MakerBot and Solidscape, and the company operates the RedEye digital-manufacturing service. Stratasys has more than 1700 employees, holds over 500 granted or pending additive manufacturing patents globally, and has received more than 20 awards for its technology and leadership.

About TCT Show + Personalize
TCT Show + Personalize is the leading event dedicated to 3D printing, additive manufacturing and product development, owned and organised by Rapid News Communications Group (RNCG). Held annually, TCT showcases almost 200 exhibitors and presents a line up of internationally recognised speakers who shine the spotlight on the technologies and signpost how they will develop in the future. In 2014 almost 10,000 attendees from over 50 countries will visit TCT for inspiration, education and most importantly to do business. The mix of inspirational speakers, cutting edge technologies and innovative initiatives such as Bright Minds UK, the Startup Zone and the RepRap Hub — all accessible with no entrance fees for attendees — is unique. As a result TCT attracts business leaders, early adopters and a wide range of users from across concept, design and manufacturing to an event where they can see tomorrow’s technology today. Follow TCT online at www.tctshow.com and through social media.

Image credit: Louis Seigal, Insue Photography.

TCT Show + Personalize 2013 - Bigger, Better and The Place to do Business

The UK's definitive and leading 3D printing, additive manufacturing and product development technology show took place last month (September 25th and 26th) to widespread acclaim. Almost 6,000 attendees from 48 countries flocked to the NEC for two days of inspiration, creativity, learning and most importantly business.

The increased visitor numbers and international participation are testament to the importance of this event on the world stage. The unique combination of cutting edge technology, with all the major manufacturers, machines and technologies assembled under one roof, combined with inspirational speakers and no entrance or ticket fees ensures TCT Show + Personalize continues its mission to support the industry and drive technology adoption in the product development and manufacturing space.

Over 150 exhibitors took their place on the show floor alongside over 40 world class speakers including luminaries such as Avi Reichental, Scott Crump, Dave Burns, Alice Taylor, Hardi Meybaum and Todd Grimm. Over 2,000 of the attendees attended at least one presentation during the two days which is firm proof of the learning aspect of the event. However the key to the continued success of TCT Show + Personalize is the level of business created and executed at the event. The feedback in the aftermath of the show this year has been unequivocally positive on this.

Chris Baker, Territory Manager UK for Stratasys EMEA, said: " A few years ago exhibiting at TCT was about educating the market. This year we could clearly see that the market is much more aware of 3d printing and its applications. It is now becoming a mainstream technology and TCT is a very focused event on the subject. We enjoyed a constant flow of enquiries over the two days and managed to close some good business at the event giving us great ROI. We are looking forward to 2014 where we will once again demonstrate our leadership in 3d printing."

Martin Forth, Vice President at EnvisionTec, commented: "This year's show, our 10th TCT in a row, has been fantastic. We have seen a significant increase in the interest in our products at the show, a good portion of which has been from potential international customers. We look forward to returning to TCT in 2014."

Duncan Wood, COO and Event Director, commented: "We have seen a proliferation of 3d printing events in the last twelve months across the globe, each of them promising to unlock the mysteries of technology. However explaining what it is all about is only part of running an event. When companies invest money in our show we have a responsibility to ensure they leave the event with quality sales enquiries, that will lead to business." 

"It is clear that TCT Show + Personalize has delivered for our exhibitors in both the 3d printing space and across the wider group of technologies that this event covers this year and that will remain our key focus. TCT Show + Personalize is an event you can be inspired by but also do business at, this is what sets TCT aside from the rest. 2014 bookings are pouring in, with many companies increasing the size of their stands - this, along with an extra day, the co-location with Interplas and a range of exciting new and expanded features for 2014 will ensure TCT Show + Personalize remains the leading dedicated 3d printing, additive manufacturing and product development technology event on the world stage."

 

 

 

 

 

TCT Magazine + Personalize Partners With CEA on CES Unveiled London and 2014 International CES

TCT Magazine + Personalize — the de facto source of information and intelligence for 3D printing, additive manufacturing and product development technologies — is proud to announce a partnership with the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA)®.

Kicking off TCT Magazine + Personalize's involvement with International CES® and to set the tone for 2014 International CES in Las Vegas in the January, TCT Magazine + Personalize will be at CES Unveiled LONDON on October 1st. This invitation-only event will showcase the dynamism of the technology industry and serve as a precursor to the 2014 International CES, the world’s gathering place for all who thrive on the business of consumer technologies. CES Unveiled LONDON will present global research, announce CES news and showcase cutting-edge products and technologies.

Building on this at International CES 2014, TCT Magazine + Personalize will be running a conference track, entitled "Don't Believe the Hype? - 3D Printing Uncovered" that will feature a stellar line up of 3D printing industry heavyweights drawing on TCT Magazine + Personalize's extensive industry contacts and its reputation.

3D printing is an overnight sensation that has been around for 30 years. Consisting of tens of technologies processing hundreds of materials, there's more to it than meets the eye. By gathering together thought leaders from across the ecosystem including 3D printer manufacturers, champions of 3D printing-enabled business models and industrial super users the CES conference track will highlight the power of 3D printing today and in the future.

TCT Magazine + Personalize will also be the official sponsor of the new 3D Printing TechZone at the 2014 International CES, and will exhibit in this new exhibit area dedicated to showcasing the latest 3D printing technology to the 150,000 visitors that International CES attracts.

Duncan Wood, COO of Rapid News Communications Group, which owns the TCT Magazine + Personalize brands, commented: "We are thrilled to announce this partnership, we are delighted to bring our expertise to bear at International CES and look forward to continuing to spread the 3D printing gospel at such a prestigious event as International CES. We are working to bring together a truly world class line up for visitors at the Las Vegas event, one that will open the eyes of all attendees to the possibilities afforded by this incredible technology."

“The International CES has always been the global venue to highlight the most exciting and innovative developments in consumer technology.  Continuing this grand tradition, we are excited that 2014 is the year that 3D printing will take a spotlight position at our event, via the TechZone and partnerships like our new alliance with Rapid News,” said Karen Chupka, senior vice president of the International CES and corporate business strategy, CEA. “Rapid News’ expertise is a great addition to the 3D printing lineup at the 2014 CES.  We look forward to working with them, in London and Las Vegas, to highlight the benefits of this remarkable technology to the world.”
 

 

 

3D Printing Industry Leaders to speak at TCT Show Keynote Sessions

3D printing's most powerful global executives will deliver their personal insights during exclusive keynote addresses at TCT Show + Personalize, the UK's leading additive manufacturing, 3D printing and product development event.

Top brass from 3D Systems, Stratasys, ExOne, Mcor Technologies, Shapeways and MakieLab will all be on stage to share their wealth of experience across the full spectrum of 3D printing technologies. The TCT Show auditorium, which has been completely reformatted for 2013, will be filled with designers, developers, engineers, investors, business owners and the media.

3D printing's most powerful global executives will deliver their personal insights during exclusive keynote addresses at TCT Show + Personalize, the UK's leading additive manufacturing, 3D printing and product development event.

Top brass from 3D Systems, Stratasys, ExOne, Mcor Technologies, Shapeways and MakieLab will all be on stage to share their wealth of experience across the full spectrum of 3D printing technologies. The TCT Show auditorium will be filled with designers, developers, engineers, investors, business owners and the media.

TCT Show + Personalize takes place on September 25th and 26th at the NEC in Birmingham. Each morning will begin with a bang - three back-to-back keynote addresses from the industry's most influential CEO-level executives. This is the first time that so many of the industry’s executives have been brought together to speak candidly about their experiences with 3D printing. 

Organisers of the free event — which is now in its eighteenth year — are proud to be hosting such a stellar roll call of industry forerunners to complement the 200+ exhibitors visitors will be able to see on the show floor. In short, TCT Show 2013 offers visitors the chance to touch and feel the reality of 3D printing today, as well as see visions of the future directly from the most influential members of the community.

The show is internationally renowned for promoting the latest in 3D design and manufacturing technology to the widest possible audience, appealing to everybody from 'hackerspace to aerospace' and this year's edition aims to build on past successes with its ground-breaking keynote sessions.

3D Systems CEO Avi Reichental, CEO of Stratasys David Reis and President and COO of ExOne David Burns will be representing publicly traded dedicated 3D printing companies with a combined stock market valuation of $9 billion, demonstrating that 3D printing is truly big business in its own right.

In addition to these titans will be Conor MacCormack, CEO of paper 3D printing innovator Mcor Technologies; CEO of Shapeways, one of the biggest global 3D printing marketplaces, Peter Weijmarshausen; and CEO of worldwide sensation MakieLab Alice Taylor, whose startup is now one of the most recognisable companies in the industry and stands at the forefront of the digital customisation revolution.

Duncan Wood, COO of Rapid News Publications, organisers of TCT Show + Personalize, commented: "We are excited to bring together such a strong line up of business leaders from the world of 3D printing to inspire, enlighten and signpost the future for our audience. To be able to hear from all of these individuals at a single event is unique and is something that we believe the TCT Show audience - whether they be a first-timer or regular attendee - will truly benefit from."