Interplas champions Women in Plastics with free event

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A free-to-attend networking evening will take place at Interplas to champion Women in Plastics, with supporters of all genders welcome to celebrate plastics' strong community of female talent.

Chester, June 23rd, 2017. On International Women in Engineering Day, Interplas organiser Interplas Events Ltd. is proud to announce the return of the Women in Plastics networking evening, which will champion women working in the plastics processing community.
 
After its successful debut in 2014, the Women in Plastics networking event returns to Interplas on Wednesday 27th September at 17:00-19:00 in Hall 4 of the Birmingham NEC. Both Interplas exhibitors and visitors of all genders are welcome to attend the free event to hear presentations from key influencers, learn more about mentoring opportunities and to network.
 
Speakers confirmed for the Women in Plastics networking evening include Adrienne Houston PhD, Cluster Coordinator for the Woman's Engineering Society (WES) and Director at Eurovacuum Products Ltd., as well as Maryann Wilcox, President of the Society of Plastics Engineers' UK and Sales Manager at Silvergate Plastics.
 
Leanne Taylor, Women in Plastics Group Founder, said: "The Women in Plastics Group aims to champion diversity by highlighting the women in the industry that are doing great work, in every capacity. We have had some fantastic feedback and there is great support from the industry for the group. We need to back this up with events where members can meet face-to-face and discuss the challenges and opportunities facing women working in the modern plastics industry, as well as how to encourage more to choose a career within it. The event at Interplas will provide this and we look forward to encouraging as many people as possible to join us." 

Membership of the Women in Plastics Group is free.
For more information on the event, and to reserve your place, please click here.

Education programme set to inspire next generation of engineers at TCT Show in Birmingham

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Successful student programme TCT Inspired Minds re-launches for 2017 designed to inspire the next generation of engineers with hands on experience of 3D technologies.

Chester, UK, 19th June 2017:  Rapid News Publications Ltd, owners of the TCT Show, is delighted to announce that the TCT Inspired Minds programme will return at the TCT Show later this year. Taking place on 26th-28th September 2017 the programme will run concurrently throughout the three days of the event.
 
TCT remains committed to accelerating the adoption of 3D technologies and inspiring the next generation of product designers and engineers is a key aspect of this mission.  Industry reports deliver a concurrent theme highlighting the continued and expanding demand for more STEM qualified students and the TCT Inspired Minds programme is helping tackle this challenge head on. TCT Inspired Minds will provide over 300 schoolchildren the opportunity to get real hands-on experience at the three-day 3D technology spectacular event inspiring them to continue their STEM education and pursue a career in the 3D printing and additive manufacturing industry.
 
Duncan Wood, Chief Executive Officer at Rapid News Publications Ltd, commented: “The Inspired Minds initiative is central to the TCT mission of helping our community assess and adopt 3D technologies. Educating the next generation is important not only for the students but for the future health of the manufacturing industry as a whole. 3D technology skills are becoming more and more valued by employers and we must ensure that those entering the workforce are sufficiently well trained — Our valued partners Black Country Atelier and The CREATE Education Project Ltd share in that philosophy and we are looking forward to working with them to devise an amazing programme for the students.”
 
Previous editions witnessed students take part in interactive courses designed to complement their existing STEM curriculum right at the heart of the event floor before heading out to the expansive exhibition to look more closely at a selection of over 200 exhibitors and their wares.
 
For 2017, the classroom has been expanded and the range of technologies will mesh with a programme, developed by Black Country Atelier and The CREATE Education Project Ltd, which will encourage pupils 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.
 
Jing Lu, CEO of Black Country Atelier, said "With the overhaul of Design and Technology due to take effect in schools this year, the future of Design and Technology will inevitably include more modern technologies like 3D printing in the classroom. 3D Printing has been shown to have impact on student engagement, help build resilience, and prepare learners for new, rigorous, Design and Technology qualifications. Inspired Minds 2017 will give students and teachers the chance to get hands-on with the latest 3D technology, be inspired by real industry figures, and see the future of Design and Technology for themselves."
 
Paul Croft, Founder, The CREATE Education Project Ltd adds: “We believe if people are to truly benefit from new technologies they must be given access and provided inspiration and support. This collaboration fits that brief perfectly and we are excited to share our knowledge and welcome more inspired minds to the CREATE Education community.”
 
The programme is designed for students in Secondary School education in the UK. Each session will last approximately two hours and will also give participants entry to TCT Show. Industry led tours of the TCT Show can also be arranged.
 
Schools within the UK wishing to participate should contact Jing Lu at BCA to register their interest and discuss how they can get involved. The places will be allocated on a first come first served basis. Email: jinglu@blackcountryatelier.com

TCT Show, taking place from 26th to 28th September 2017, is free to attend and conveniently located in the centre of the UK at the NEC, Birmingham. Register now at www.tctshow.com to ensure your place!

Registration Open for TCT Show 2017

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The Stage is Set for Success

Chester, 31st May 2017. Registration is now open for TCT Show 2017, one of the world’s leading events focused on 3D manufacturing technologies. In its 22nd year, TCT Show continues to deliver business-critical insights on 3D printing, additive manufacturing, CAD/CAE, metrology and inspection as well as conventional manufacturing processes such as moulding, casting and CNC machining.
 
This year, visitors will benefit not only from the opportunity to connect with almost 300 exhibiting companies, displaying the most innovative and dynamic technologies and services available on the market, but also from ground-breaking product launches, exciting demonstrations and enthralling presentations from a world-class speaker line up.
 
The conference and seminar track has grown exponentially. Now taking place across three dedicated stages split into key themes, the conference programme will deliver relevant, inspirational content on exciting new stages. The enhancement of the free-to-attend conference and seminar programme at TCT Show presents more than ever in terms of quality, inspiration, innovation and education.
 
The Main Stage
 
A celebration of inspiration and innovation in product development, engineering and manufacturing. Tracking ahead of the mainstream, the Main Stage conference presents applications and insights from some of the world’s best companies and speakers.
 
The Tech Stage
 
A varied line up of presentations, workshops and training. Get to grips with the fundamentals of AM with Graham Tromans, evaluate a full reverse engineering work flow or ensure you're up to speed with the latest Health & Safety regulations.

The Product Stage

With almost 300 exhibitors, it can be time consuming to get the latest information from them all - that's why TCT Show offers the Product Stage to all visitors: take a seat and let the exhibitors bring you the information on their latest hardware, software, materials and services.

In addition to the conference and seminar programme, visitors to TCT Show will be educated and entertained throughout the three-day event with exciting show floor features including Inspex which focuses on inspection and metrology technologies, and TCT Inspired Minds – a unique educational experience that will see over 300 schoolchildren get hands-on with 3D technologies.
 
The Start Up Zone will be back for 2017, giving visitors the opportunity to see the ‘next big thing’ before it hits the mainstream. Participants will also be found on the Tech Stage, pitching their products and ideas for the chance to win the Start Up Award!

TCT Show will take place in Hall 3 of the National Exhibition Centre (NEC), Birmingham, UK, from 26-28 September 2017. Visitors can register for free at www.tctshow.com

Med-Tech Innovation Expo hits record attendance

Under the management of the Rapid News Communications Group for the first time since being acquired in November 2016, Med-Tech Innovation Expo - the only event serving the whole of the £27bn UK and Irish medical technology sector - saw almost 2,000 attendees from 22 different countries visit the Ricoh Arena to speak to over 150 exhibitors and learn from the world class speaker programme on both the conference and Med-Tech Introducing stages.

Over 500 visitors attended the conference presentations, produced in association with Medilink UK and Med-Tech Innovation magazine. Topics ranged from the Internet of Things, research and development, 3D printing in medical technology and patient focus to data-driven methodology, intellectual property law, improvement, working with the NHS, challenges, opportunities and so much more.

Laura Hunt, marketing communications manager at Steris, said “Med-Tech Innovation Expo is an ideal opportunity to meet our UK customers and new prospects face to face. The central UK location allows for easy access to visitors from across the nation."

Baltimore Innovations chairman, Ted Valentine simply said: "It’s got its mojo back!"

The Med-Tech Innovation Expo show floor offered unparalleled access to the tools needed for realising ideas across medical device product development, engineering and manufacturing projects.  

Duncan Wood, CEO of Rapid News Communications Group, owner of Med-Tech Innovation Expo, said “We are delighted with the response to the first expo under our new management.  We’ve been able to build on the solid foundations laid down by Colin Martin and his team and deliver solid growth on all the key metrics of number of visitors, exhibitors and space sold. This gives us a fantastic platform on which to deliver a bigger, better and more exciting event for the medical technology and healthcare sector in 2018.”

Med-Tech Innovation Expo 2018 will take place in the Ericsson Hall 1 at the Ricoh Arena, Coventry, UK, from 25-26 April 2018.

Med-Tech Innovation Expo 2017 Hits Record Attendance

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Chester, May 19th, 2017. The UK’s annual showcase of medical technology took place in late April to positive reviews from visitors and exhibitors alike.  
 
Under the management of the Rapid News Communications Group for the first time since being acquired in November 2016, Med-Tech Innovation Expo - the only event serving the whole of the £27bn UK and Irish medical technology sector - saw almost 2,000 attendees from 22 different countries visit the Ricoh Arena to speak to over 150 exhibitors and learn from the world class speaker programme on both the Conference and Med-Tech Introducing Stages.
 
Over 500 visitors attended the conference presentations, produced in association with Medilink UK and Med-Tech Innovation Magazine. Topics ranged from the Internet of Things, research and development, 3D printing in medical technology and patient focus to data-driven methodology, intellectual property law, improvement, working with the NHS, challenges, opportunities and so much more.
 
Laura Hunt, Marketing Communications Manager at Steris, said “Med-Tech Innovation Expo is an ideal opportunity to meet our UK Customers and new prospects face to face. The central UK location allows for easy access to visitors from across the nation. We look forward to seeing you all next year!” and Baltimore Innovations Chairman, Ted Valentine exclaimed "It’s got its mojo back!"
 
The Med-Tech Innovation Expo show floor offered unparalleled access to the tools needed for realising ideas across medical device product development, engineering and manufacturing projects. Visitors were delighted with the fantastic array of tech to be seen including a 3D printed vase displayed on the Formlabs stand whose twin was printed live throughout day 1 and Ostling Etchmark’s laser engraving machine etching visitor names onto branded pens before their eyes – a great memory to take home.
 
Duncan Wood, CEO Rapid News Communications Group, owner of Med-Tech Innovation Expo, said “We are delighted with the response to the first Expo under our new management.  We’ve been able to build on the solid foundations laid down by Colin Martin and his team and deliver solid growth on all the key metrics of number of visitors, exhibitors and space sold. This gives us a fantastic platform on which to deliver a bigger, better and more exciting event for the Medical Technology and Healthcare sector in 2018.”

Med-Tech Innovation Expo 2018 will take place in the Ericsson Hall 1 at the Ricoh Arena, Coventry, UK, from 25-26 April 2018.

Med-Tech Innovation Expo Presents a Stellar Conference Programme of Medical and Healthcare Thought Leaders

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Chester, April 20th, 2017. Med-Tech Innovation Expo, the only event serving the whole of the £27bn UK and Irish medical technology sector is due to take place in Coventry next week and promises visitors every opportunity to be enlightened, educated, entertained and engaged by the stellar line-up of speakers on its Med-Tech Innovation Conference programme, produced in association with Medilink UK.

Healthcare and Medical Technology moves on in leaps and bounds with every passing day. Looking at the landscape now and comparing this to a time even as recently as last year shows an entirely new spectrum of processes, devices, patient-driven strategies and ideas. In this fast-moving environment, innovation is the only way to succeed. Put simply, we must “keep up” to survive and progress to truly thrive.

With this in mind, Education Through Inspiration is the overarching theme of the Med-Tech Innovation Conference for 2017 with representatives from a variety of blue chip users, government officials and industry experts taking to the stage to offer their expertise and insight.

Topics covered will range from IoT, research and development to 3D printing in medical technology, patient focus, data-driven methodology, improvement, working with the NHS, challenges, opportunities and so much more.

We will hear from revered industry pioneers including Professor John Fisher of the EPSRC Centre for Innovative Manufacturing in Medical Devices, Brigadier Timothy Hodgetts from the Ministry of Defence, Microsoft’s Sean O’Shea, René Martin of Stratasys and Boston Scientific’s Giovanni Accardo.

Day Two will feature a very special presentation from the newly appointed Chairman of Medilink UK, William Cruise who will draw on his 30 years’ experience with 3M to explore creativity, innovation and collaboration as keys to developing novel medical devices to improve patient outcomes and manage healthcare costs.

Duncan Wood, CEO, Rapid News Communications Group comments, “With representation from all corners of the Medical Technology and Healthcare sector, the 2017 Med-Tech Innovation Conference programme offers something for everyone; insight, advice, technological expertise, legal knowledge and, most importantly for our visitors, innovation. This year promises to be the best yet in terms of content and engagement, credit goes to Medilink for bringing together this superb line up on the main stage”

For the full conference programme, click here.

Registration opens for Interplas 2017

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Chester, April 18th, 2017: Registration for Interplas 2017, the UK's leading plastics industry event, is now open.
 
Under the theme 'Innovation Happens Here', Interplas 2017 is the only event in the UK to cover all the plastics manufacturing processes, applications and services, making it a vital focal point for the entire plastics supply chain.
 
From 26th-28th September 2017, organiser, Interplas Events Ltd, part of the Rapid News Communications Group, is looking forward to welcoming over 400 exhibitors to an expanded show floor at the National Exhibition Centre (NEC), Birmingham.
 
Interplas 2017 is now 25 per cent larger than the show floor at Interplas 2014.
 
This larger space will include some of the biggest names in global plastics processing, as well as exciting features such as the Knowledge Pavilion, where visitors can source information and advice; Mediplas at Interplas, a dedicated area of the show floor for medical plastics; and the expert-packed Main Stage conference programme.
 
Interplas 2017 will also recognise forward-looking technologies and projects with the ‘Interplas Introducing’ stage, while the event will also welcome back the popular Women in Plastics networking evening.
 
The must-attend UK event in the plastics industry diary will once again be co-located with additive manufacturing and 3D technology event, TCT Show, which Interplas visitors will be able to explore using their Interplas 2017 badge.
 
Interplas Conference Manager Leanne Taylor said: “Still some five months out from the show, there is a real sense of momentum building, with many exhibitors making Interplas the focal point for their activities in 2017. Now that registration is open, visitors can secure their place to ensure that come September they can take advantage of the opportunity to compare working technology, find answers to their questions and gain genuine insight. Where business is concerned, it’s an opportunity not to be missed.”
 
Interplas 2017 takes place at the NEC, Birmingham, UK, on 26th-28th September 2017. Visitors can register for free at www.interplasuk.com.

Med-Tech Innovation Expo - The Medical Technology Event

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Chester, April 10th, 2017. It is now just over two weeks until the doors open for Med-Tech Innovation Expo, the UK and Ireland's leading showcase for medical technology and innovation - the only event that serves the whole of the £27bn UK and Irish medical technology sector.
 
The event will bring together stakeholders from the medical and healthcare sectors to source products, explore new ideas, understand emerging technologies and talk to over 150 companies representing the supply chain from the ideation stage, through design and validation to manufacture. These advanced design and manufacturing solution providers will connect with a medical and healthcare OEM audience eager to source solutions to their latest challenges.
 
Unparalleled insight
The centrepiece Med-Tech Innovation Conference, produced in association with Medilink UK, will enhance the show floor experience with a world class programme which will deliver insights, intelligence and education from a wide range of blue chip users, government officials and industry experts.
 
This high-level conference will set the agenda for 2017, providing a unique debating and learning opportunity with innovators, evangelists and champions of the medical industry from the Ministry of Defence, Philips, Microsoft, Boston Scientific, 3M, the Academy for Healthcare Science and IBM taking to the stage to inspire and educate in equal measure.
 
Touch It. Test It.
There is no better way to evaluate technology than seeing it live, and exhibitions present the most efficient way to evaluate multiple technologies and products in one visit. The Med-Tech Innovation Expo floor will offer unparalleled access to the tools needed for realising ideas across medical device product development, engineering and manufacturing projects.
 
The medical engineering and manufacturing community will be able to see the entire spectrum of advanced technology, materials and solutions for design and manufacturing including packaging, moulding, automation, materials, medical electronics, medical plastics, design, sterilisation, components, testing and inspection, sensors, surface technology, manufacturing equipment and contract services.
 
New for 2017
This year’s exhibition, taking place at the Ricoh Arena Coventry 26-27 April, will see more than 20 first time exhibitors joining the show floor and contributing new ideas that will drive conversation.
 
First-time exhibitors such as Mitsubishi Electric, Medical Moulded Products, Festo and the National Institute for Health Research will join the vast array of returning exhibitors including Boddingtons Plastics, STERIS AST, Laser Lines, The West Group and Renfrew Group International. 
 
Joining first-time exhibitors Formlabs and Trelleborg Sealing Solutions on the Med-Tech Introducing Stage, where the most exciting advances in medical technology will be presented, are longstanding exhibitors including PD-M Innovation & Product Design, Venner Shipley and TLM Laser.
 
Open to all visitors, the Med-Tech Introducing Stage will present the latest technology from the show floor in one place. Speakers from exhibiting companies and their partners will demonstrate their innovations and applications across two days of the event, making Med-Tech Introducing an efficient way of getting up to speed with what is new at the show.
 
Medilink UK Healthcare Business Awards
The Medilink UK Healthcare Business Awards will take place on the evening of 26th April, celebrating the continued innovation, diversification and sustainability of UK Life Sciences sector. Awards span five exciting and competitive categories encompassing innovation, exports, start-ups, partnerships and a special outstanding achievement award. Tickets to the prestigious awards evening can be purchased via the Med-Tech Innovation Expo website.
 
Free to attend
It is completely free to attend Med-Tech Innovation Expo and all pre-registered visitors will be in with a chance to win a Makerbot Replicator Z18 3D Printer. To secure your place at Med-Tech Innovation Expo, register now at www.med-techexpo.com

Metal Additive Manufacturing makes it mark at TCT Asia 2017

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Innovation drives 33% growth in international exhibitors and 20% growth in visitors

Chester, UK, Wednesday 5 April 2017 - Additive manufacturing (AM) in metals has been making the news for the last 12 months with seismic changes to the sector through the introduction of innovative new companies and process, and mergers and acquisitions activity. TCT Asia 2017, which took place the region’s leading fairground, SNIEC, 8-10 March, also saw metal AM surge to the forefront with 13 new metals machines on show across the 10,000 sqm of exhibition space.
 
The majority of new systems were selective laser melting machines from China-based companies. Now entering it’s fourth year, TCT Asia has seen numbers of China-based metal AM machines rise from one in the first year, as TCT’s Group Editor, Daniel O’Connor explained: “Discovering so many new metals AM machines at this year’s event was a real surprise. The rate of adoption and development is breathtaking in China and the wider Asian market, and where even a couple of years ago the region was seen as lagging the West, it’s catching up at a truly impressive rate.”
 
Interest from Western metal AM companies was once again evident, with EOS, Concept Laser, Renishaw and SLM Solutions returning to the event, joined by first-time exhibitors for 2017 GE Additive and Trumpf.
 
TCT Asia speaker, industry expert and Chair of the Additive Manufacturing Association in the UK, Graham Tromans, commented: “China has that manufacturing mind set and in China metal AM is seen as more of a manufacturing process compared to the plastic processes. The automotive and aerospace sectors are of the utmost importance to China’s manufacturing economy and that is why so many of the companies are developing metal machines. Despite the rise of Chinese machinery the Western companies maintain strong sales in China owing to a more refined process.”
 
Metals also played an expanded role in the three-day 3D technologies conference held on the show floor. Some 1100 conference delegates attended presentations from 45 high-level global speakers, with tracks on aerospace and automotive applications leading the interest in metal AM.  
 
Weidong Huang, Professor at Northwestern Polytechnical University presented the state-of-the-art for Chinese metal additive manufacture, demonstrating the huge advances in real-world applications being made in the region. Dong Liu, Professor at the National Engineering Lab of AM for Large Metallic Components, BUAA, explored the technological challenges and impacts of AM for high-performance large and critical metallic components.
 
Beyond metals the show floor was home to an expanded line up of polymer and ceramic AM solutions, 3D scanning, metrology and inspection solutions, and software for design and process management. Duncan Wood, Chairman of VNU Rapid News Co. Ltd, organisers of TCT Asia commented: “This year’s event truly brought the whole of the 3D technologies world together for the Chinese market. While metals stole the show, the growth in development at all levels of the industry was clear to see, with TCT Asia living up to its promise to help manufacturers make better products, more quickly.
 
2018 and beyond
 
With year-on-year growth and increased international attendance TCT Asia is establishing itself as one of the leading 3D technology events within the Asia market. 2018 will witness further expansion in Asia with the introduction of TCT Korea as part of the global TCT Group portfolio. We recognise the niche global markets and provide our exhibitors and visitors with consistent quality shows tailored to help them enter foreign markets. The industry outlook is currently rather positive and the relocation for 2017 ensures that TCT Asia has the opportunity for further growth in terms of Exhibition space and remains a leading 3D manufacturing technology event in China.
 
TCT Asia 2018 will take place 1-3 March, 2018, Hall N1, SNIEC, Shanghai, China.
 

Rapid News Communications Group completes acquisition of Packaging Europe Magazine & Website.

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March 17, 2017, Chester UK - Rapid News Communications Group (RNCG) announces today that it has completed the acquisition of Packaging Europe magazine and its associated website.

The Packaging Europe brand was established in 2006, and is now firmly positioned as Europe’s leading packaging publication focusing on connecting new technologies across the supply chain. 

Rapid News Communications Group is a specialist B2B media and events company with market leading brands in the life sciences, plastics and 3D printing/additive manufacturing sectors. The Packaging Europe products will join a hugely successful international media and event portfolio including Interplas, TCT, Medical Plastics News, Med-Tech Innovation, European Pharmaceutical Manufacturer, British Plastics and Rubber and Digital Health Age.

Duncan Wood, CEO, RNCG commented, “We are absolutely delighted to be adding to our strong portfolio with this acquisition.  The Packaging Europe products are a perfect fit for our portfolio and we are looking forward to working alongside the excellent and experienced team based in Norwich.”

“We have a track record in high technology industries and have accelerated media and events with great success in recent years. We look forward to investing in the Packaging Europe brands and enhancing them for all stakeholders in the European packaging sector.”
  Sir Nigel Burney, Chairman, RNCG remarked: “We are delighted to be expanding into another important
sector where innovation is accelerating and new technologies are driving quality and service improvement.”

“The team is tremendously excited about the opportunities afforded by the new ownership to amplify what is already the authoritative voice for European packaging industry,” commented Tim Sykes, Editor of Packaging Europe. “We are looking forward to developing the products in some exciting new areas in the forthcoming months, enabling us to deliver ever more for our advertisers and readers in the sector.”

The TCT Awards 2017

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The TCT Group Announces Inaugural Industry Awards Evening and Hall of Fame Induction.

Renowned voice of the 3D manufacturing technology industry, the TCT Group have announced the date, location and categories in advance of the first TCT Awards in September 2017.

Chester, UK, February 1st, 2017 – The TCT Group today announced the date and location for the inaugural TCT Awards that will take place in 2017. The event will be held at the prestigious Birmingham Town Hall on the evening of Wednesday 27th September during the three days of 2017 edition of the TCT Show.
 
The 2017 TCT Awards will be presented for the best use of 3D printing, additive manufacturing, 3D scanning or a combination of 3D technologies in the following categories:

  • TCT Aerospace Application Award 2017
  • TCT Automotive Application Award 2017
  • TCT Creative Application Award 2017
  • TCT Healthcare Application Award 2017
  • TCT Consumer Product Application Award 2017
  • TCT Industrial Product Application Award 2017
  • TCT Technology Innovation Hardware Award 2017
  • TCT Technology Innovation Software Award 2017
  • TCT Technology Innovation Materials Award 2017
  • TCT Rising Star Award 2017

TCT has always existed at the intersection of technology and applications, and the TCT Awards will maintain this approach, celebrating the innovators, technologies and collaborators behind the leading examples of 3D technology use across the globe. The very best use cases of these ground-breaking technologies are collaborative projects – so the TCT Awards will recognise the partners in a project from designers and engineers to technology providers.
 
Duncan Wood, COO, Rapid News Publications Ltd, owners of TCT, explains the thinking behind the awards categories: “Many technology awards have categories for almost all types of machine, and in the end it can come down to which company mobilises its users to vote for them. However, it’s not how we wanted to do things. Ultimately technology is made great by the innovation and skills of those who use it.  So, we will reward the best applications of 3D manufacturing technology in multiple areas, we feel this is a true reflection of the impact of the technologies on our world.”
 
TCT Hall of Fame

In addition to the industry award categories the TCT Award evening will also see the first inductees to the TCT Hall of Fame. These prestigious honours will recognise and celebrate those individuals who have made a significant impact in either inventing or developing the technologies since their inception a little over thirty years ago.
 
Duncan Wood continues, “This is a natural progression for us, we’ve been in the industry almost as long as the technology has existed. There is no group better placed to judge which individuals have had the biggest impact on the global industry than our Expert Advisory Board. I am looking forward to recognising some amazing individuals, alongside some incredible technology-led applications in September.”

Information for Entering the TCT Awards
 
The 2017 TCT Awards are open to companies across the entire 3D technology ecosystem and may be entered online; a full list of categories, award criteria and deadlines can be found at www.tctawards.com
 
The awards will be judged by independent experts, analysts, journalists, and academics. The nominees for the Hall of Fame will be selected by this panel and then a public vote will be held to determine the inductees for 2017.
 
For further information on sponsorship opportunities and attendance to the 2017 TCT Awards, which takes place on 27 September 2017 at Birmingham Town Hall, Birmingham, UK please visit www.tctawards.com.

TCT Show 2017 takes place 26–28 September 2017, Hall 3, NEC, Birmingham, UK, www.tctshow.com.

Rapid News Communications Group Completes Acquisition of Med-Tech Innovation Magazine, Website and Expo.

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16th November 2016, Chester, UK - Rapid News Communications Group (RNCG) announces today that it has completed the acquisition of the Med-Tech Innovation brands from MedTech Communications Ltd.

The Med-Tech Innovation brand was established in 2010, under the direction of Colin Martin and is now firmly positioned as the leading medical device magazine and exhibition for the UK and Irish medical sector. Martin will continue to drive the products under the new ownership.

Rapid News Communications Group, led by the experienced Chief executive Duncan Wood, is a specialist B2B media and events company with market leading brands in the life sciences, plastics and 3D printing/additive manufacturing sectors. The Med-Tech products will join a hugely successful media and event portfolio including Interplas, TCT, Medical Plastics News, European Pharmaceutical Manufacturer, British Plastics and Rubber and Digital Health Age.

Duncan Wood, CEO, RNCG commented, “We are absolutely delighted to be adding to our strong portfolio in the life sciences sector with this acquisition. The Med-Tech products clearly increase our commitment to the UK healthcare market and we promise to invest not just money and infrastructure into the magazine and event but also our 25 years experience in the medical device sector. We have a track record in high technology industries and have accelerated media and events with great success in recent years. We look forward to doing the same with the Med-Tech brands and enhancing them for all stakeholders in the UK and Ireland medical device sector.

Colin Martin adds, “I am delighted to be able to take the business forward with the resources, experience and expertise of RNCG. Med-Tech Innovation has always been about facilitating communication between all stakeholders in the medical device, innovation, design and manufacturing process and this announcement propels Med-Tech forward in all areas of the business. I look forward to getting started with the team at RNCG immediately.

Global Focus on TCT Show

The UK’s annual showcase of 3D technologies for product development, manufacturing and engineering closed its doors in late September to rave reviews from visitors and exhibitors alike.

TCT Show, which took place for the 21st time in 2016, featured a plethora of world-class speakers, global technology releases and multiple European and UK debuts for new 3D technologies and their applications.

The event once again drew the global 3D tech world’s focus, with 20% of the 8,000+ attendees arriving from more than 40 countries to see 250 exhibiting companies from 24 countries.

From the minute the doors opened the hall buzzed with activity as visitors flooded in to see for the first time technologies from Carbon, RPS, HP, Admatec, Trumpf and more. The thirst for knowledge ensured that every development was given a hearing.

This enthusiasm poured over to the TCT Show Conference, where hundreds of attendees were able to hear about state-of-the art developments in 3D tech from Airbus, Thales, 3M, DARPA, and Siemens. One of the most powerful sessions — both demonstrating the power of the technologies on display at TCT Show and the power of the show itself — came from Sutrue and the Royal Brompton Hospital.

In 2015 the team behind Sutrue presented their concept on the Main Stage and explored the exhibition where they discovered the technology that would push their life-saving project to the next level. By the 2016 event, the team were about to conduct the first heart surgery using the devices that 3D printing had helped them develop.

The return of the TCT Start Up Zone and Inspex

Returning for the second year, the TCT Start Up Zone gave international 3D technology start ups a platform to present to the global stage. Each of the 16 companies were able to give their ‘elevator pitch’ to a packed auditorium — including the judges for the TCT Start Up Zone Award. The eventual winners, Laykanics, pitched an educational initiative with desktop 3D printing at its heart. Advertising in the TCT portfolio and consulting from leading AM expert, Todd Grimm, accompanied their cash prize.

The increasing focus on the inspection and metrology needs of the advanced manufacturing industries were reflected on the show floor and Tech Stage with the relaunch of the Inspex brand at TCT Show. Leading inspection companies such as Olympus, Nikon, FARO, Autodesk and EuroPac exhibited under the Inspex banner, with plans to enhance this feature further in 2017.

During the event organisers Rapid News announced that from 2017 the show floor would be an impressive 30% larger and the event would span three days from 2017 onwards. This increased capacity will allow the popular Inspired Minds education programme to return, provide space for a larger Start Up Zone and bring for the first time three free-to-attend conference stages to the show floor.

With the increasing influence of the 3D tech industry, the organisers also announced the TCT Annual Awards, which will be the global black-tie event that recognises the important contributions of this innovative community on the lives and businesses of the wider community.

Duncan Wood, COO Rapid News Publications, owner of the TCT Group, said: “The overwhelming feeling from the floor is one of increased quality as the hype around 3D printing fades resulting in increasing numbers of buyers on the show floor. Many exhibitors are reporting that they did business directly on their stands, and this coupled with our exciting announcements for 2017 ensures TCT is set to remain as the hub of our global event operations and extremely important to everything we do internationally.”

Accelerating 3D Technology - The 2016 TCT Show opens for registration

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9th June 2016 – Rapid News Publications Ltd, organisers of the TCT Show, where tomorrow’s 3D manufacturing technology is brought to life, has today announced that registration is open for its 21st show which will run 28th - 29th September, NEC, Birmingham.

After a successful 2015 show, more than 220 exhibitors will participate in this years’ event which will boast the largest concentration of additive manufacturing machines, 3D printers and complementary and competing technology in the UK.  More than 8,000 attendees including manufacturers, designers, business leaders, early adopters, innovators and investors from over 60 countries are also set to attend.

“The TCT Show sets the agenda for the industry giving visitors the opportunity to gain insight, education, see innovation in action and most importantly to do business.” Said Duncan Wood, COO Rapid News Communications Group.  “Visitors can expect to see a mix of expert speakers, real world applications as well as product launches, live demonstrations and other exciting features – the TCT Show is an event that buzzes with energy.” Added Wood.

Highlights for the 2016 TCT Show will include:

  • TOUCH IT. TEST IT – over 300 machines on display covering all aspects of 3D printing and
    additive manufacturing as well as complementary, supporting and competing technologies.
  • MAIN STAGE @TCT - speakers from a range of industries talk about real-life industry
    applications.
  • KEYNOTE PRESENTATIONS – leading industry commentators focus on digital manufacturing — find out what’s new and discover the must see technologies.
  • BEGINNERS GUIDE TO ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING – led by expert Graham Tromans this seminar is a must attend session for all those new to additive manufacturing or needing a refresher.
  • INSPEX @TCT – providers of metrology and inspection hardware, software and services will be given enhanced visibility on the show floor alongside a dedicated seminar session.
  • SOFTWARE INSIGHTS – a dedicated seminar addressing emerging trends and new technology for design; prototyping and visualization; file manipulation and management; and machine/process management.
  • START UP ZONE - 16 brand new and dynamic start-up companies will present their businesses and products to the market.
  • New for 2016 the TCT START UP AWARD - recognising and honouring innovative new technologies from the Start Up Zone.

Visitors can register for the free-to-attend TCT Show 2016 at www.tctshow.com.  Attendees can also register via social networks; Twitter, LinkedIn or Facebook. Offering the opportunity to see both their own connections as well as other visitors who will be attending the event, providing the opportunity to network and invite.

SME and Rapid News Publications Ltd to Partner on RAPID Event from 2017

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DEARBORN, Mich., and CHESTER, UK, April 13, 2016 – SME and owner of The TCT Group, Rapid News Publications Ltd, have today announced a strategic alliance that will see the organizations teaming up to produce the annual RAPID 3D manufacturing event starting in 2017.

The two organizations are combining their nearly 30 years of insights and experience in accelerating the adoption and advancement of 3D manufacturing technologies and are confident that the new event, to be renamed RAPID + TCT, will result in an increased impact on the U.S. manufacturing industry. 

RAPID has been produced by SME since its inception 26 years ago as an additive manufacturing and 3D technology conference and exposition. It has seen significant growth in attendance, exhibits and activities in recent years. Through its TCT portfolio, Rapid News has been at the forefront of the 3D printing, additive manufacturing and product development movement for more than 20 years.

The new partnership will leverage SME and TCT’s collective industry knowledge and global networks to draw significantly more industry professionals together to address the challenges of 3D manufacturing and drive even greater adoption and progress across all industries.

Emerging technologies such as additive manufacturing (3D printing) and other 3D technologies are enabling manufacturers to reduce time to market, produce stronger and lighter parts, improve efficiency, reduce waste, cost and emissions and create products and geometries they couldn’t create before. Increased awareness of these real benefits of using advanced manufacturing technologies will encourage more companies to adopt these technologies which will improve their ability to compete on the global stage. 

“RAPID has developed significantly in the last five years and still we recognize that even more 3D manufacturing knowledge and expertise is needed now,” said Debbie Holton, director of Events and Industry Strategy at SME. “By combining the resources of SME with TCT’s trusted and respected global brand and media reach, we will create an even stronger event that has a greater national impact on manufacturing, helping companies compete with these high tech tools in a quickly changing market.” 

“This is a strategically important and exciting move for both of our organizations,” said Duncan Wood, chief operating officer, Rapid News Publications Ltd. “This partnership with SME fits with our mission of accelerating 3D technology adoption worldwide. RAPID is the leading 3D manufacturing show in the U.S. and we are delighted to be able to add our experience, ideas and media power to the fantastic team at SME, We look forward to building an amazing RAPID + TCT event with them in the coming years.”

The RAPID + TCT partnership will go into effect for the 2017 event. 

Learn more at the RAPID 2016 event taking place May 16-19 at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, FL. Register to attend at rapid3devent.com.

formnext’s Exhibitor Advisory Board Founded

First row from left to right: Duncan Wood, Daniel Lichtenstein, Dr. Christoph SchumacherSecond row from left to right:  Günther Rehm, Wolfgang Kochan, Dr. Kristian Arntz, Ingo Kuhlmann, Marco Schülken, Günther Hofmann, Rainer Lotz, Stefan Ritt,…

First row from left to right: Duncan Wood, Daniel Lichtenstein, Dr. Christoph Schumacher
Second row from left to right:  Günther Rehm, Wolfgang Kochan, Dr. Kristian Arntz, Ingo Kuhlmann, Marco Schülken, Günther Hofmann,
Rainer Lotz, Stefan Ritt, Kai Witter

Following its foundation on 1 March 2016, formnext’s exhibitor advisory board has already begun its work. This body comprises CEOs and exhibition managers from prominent companies and organizations in additive manufacturing, tool and form-making, and other areas of industrial product development and manufacturing. It is chaired by Rainer Lotz, managing director of Renishaw GmbH, Germany.
 

Through the exhibitor advisory board, Mesago Messe Frankfurt GmbH – the company that organizes formnext – has ensured that the spirited exchange of ideas with its target industries will remain a fixture of this international exhibition and conference.

“Since we started putting formnext together, we’ve been in close contact with numerous companies and other organizations,” explains Sascha F. Wenzler, Vice President of formnext at Mesago Messe Frankfurt. “The exhibitor advisory board is a continuation of this fruitful collaboration on an even deeper level.”
 

The formnext exhibitor advisory board’s members are:

Dr. Kristian Arntz, Fraunhofer Institute for Production Technology (IPT)

Günther Hofmann, Hofmann Innovation Group / Concept Laser GmbH

Wolfgang Kochan, Stratasys GmbH

Ingo Kuhlmann, IKOffice GmbH

Daniel Lichtenstein, Trumpf Laser- und Systemtechnik GmbH

Rainer Lotz, Renishaw GmbH

Günther Rehm, Listemann Technology AG

Stefan Ritt, SLM Solutions GmbH

Marco Schülken, Schülken Form GmbH

Dr. Christoph Schumacher, Arburg GmbH + Co KG

Kai Witter, EOS GmbH

Duncan Wood, Rapid News Communications / TCT
 

Among other tasks, this 12-person body is now playing a part in keeping formnext up to speed with the latest trends and establishing it as a leading international exhibition for modern product development and manufacturing.

Rapid News and VNU announce joint venture in Asia

Left to Right: Serena Liu, Evan Sha, Jessica Zhu, Bas van Haver, Duncan Wood and James Woodcock

Left to Right: Serena Liu, Evan Sha, Jessica Zhu, Bas van Haver, Duncan Wood and James Woodcock

Rapid News Publications Ltd and VNU Exhibitions Asia announce joint venture to lead technology adoption in Asian market.

As the second edition of TCT + Personalize Asia approaches, Rapid News and VNU Exhibitions Asia formalize their relationship to expand the TCT + Personalize event and media portfolio across Asia.

Shanghai, PR China, and Chester, UK, January 26th 2016 – Following a hugely successful debut edition of TCT + Personalize Asia in March 2015 the joint organisers of the event, Rapid News Publications Ltd (Rapid News) and VNU Exhibitions Asia (VNU) are today announcing the formation of a joint venture company that will combine their networks, processes and skills to further expand the Rapid News additive manufacturing (AM), 3D printing and 3D technology event and media portfolio to a pan-Asian audience.
 
The timing of the joint venture is highly favourable, following the Chinese government’s National 3D Printing Industry Development Promotion Plan released in February 2015 which, coupled with significant government funding in academic institutions, science and research centers, as well as within manufacturing companies, sets in place a strong framework for future development and adoption of AM and 3D printing within China.
 
Through its TCT + Personalize portfolio Rapid News has been at the forefront of the 3D printing, additive manufacturing and product development movement for more than twenty years. This unprecedented heritage means that the company is perfectly placed to lead the education process as users across Asia identify the business benefits of adopting the latest 3D technologies.
 
The joint venture company will operate under the name VNU Rapid News Co. Ltd and will be based in Shanghai. The company will capitalize on VNU’s strong reputation for organizing world-class exhibitions in the region while Rapid News will bring its two decades of technology expertise, networks, global market knowledge and experience.
 
Duncan Wood, COO of Rapid News Publications Ltd and Chairman of the new JV said, “This is a strategically important and exciting move for Rapid News Publications Ltd and TCT. The formation of a joint venture company with VNU significantly strengthens our presence in the region, and increases our stake in the additive manufacturing, 3D printing and 3D technology sector globally. TCT + Personalize is the global market’s most influential portfolio and we are delighted to be working with VNU. We are absolutely thrilled with the partnership and the exciting opportunities that it brings.”
 
David Zhong, CEO, VNU Exhibitions Asia commented, "This is a milestone partnership for VNU Exhibitions Asia. With our 20 years of knowledge and experience in the China market, we have developed a series of world-class exhibition brands, whilst exploring new business opportunities in emerging industries together with our international partners. We are proud of our co-operation with Rapid News Publications Ltd to develop the TCT+ Personalize portfolio in the China and Asia market.”
 
About Rapid News Publications Ltd.
 Rapid News Publications Ltd, is the owner of the TCT + Personalize portfolio. The TCT Group’s mission is to accelerate the adoption of 3D technologies for design, development and manufacture across all industry sectors. Our events, publications, websites and digital products deliver business-critical insights on 3D printing, additive manufacturing, CAD/CAE, metrology and inspection and traditional manufacturing technologies across the globe. Rapid News Publications Ltd is a member of the AEO (Association of Event Organisers) and BPA Worldwide - www.thetctgroup.com
 
 
About VNU Exhibitions Asia
VNU Exhibitions Asia is a joint venture of Royal Dutch Jaarbeurs and Keylong Exhibitions Service Co., Ltd. As one of the earliest exhibition companies in the country, VNU Exhibitions Asia has been a leader in China’s exhibition industry for more than two decades. Through the joint efforts of more than 170 outstanding employees, the company hosts more than 20 top exhibitions and conferences in China each year, and boasts an exhibition area of over 300,000 square meters. The company is currently headquartered in Shanghai. The company is currently a member of Union of International Fairs (UFI) and “Level A Qualification Unit” of Shanghai Convention & Exhibition Industries Association (SCEIA). www.vnuexhibitions.com.cn

Featuring Numerous World Premieres, formnext Emerges as Top Attraction

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From 17 – 20 November 2015 the very first edition of formnext powered by tct 2015 succeeded in drawing 8.982 visitors from all around the world, establishing the event as an impressive platform for cutting-edge product development. The exhibitors were delighted with the number of people visiting the booths and the upbeat atmosphere.

"With an excellent ratio of visitors per exhibitor, the debut of formnext has really hit the ground running," reports Sascha Wenzler, Vice President at Mesago Messe Frankfurt, the organizer of formnext. "Despite the tight preparation schedule, we managed to establish an excellent market position for formnext thanks to strong support from our exhibitors. At 42 percent, the share of international visitors at the event also sends a very positive signal."

Meanwhile, the exhibitors' positive feedback has affirmed formnext’s concept as well as a successful international convention for both additive technologies and conventional product development and manufacturing techniques.

Among those praising formnext 2015 for the outstanding quality of the information on offer was Rainer Lotz, CEO of Renishaw: "The additive industry is showing off its best side here; there's nothing else like it in the world," Lotz said, adding that he was pleasantly surprised by the quantity and exceptional competence of those in attendance. "For our service department involved in contract manufacturing with additive metal components, the contacts we've gained have made formnext our best event of the year."

For Stratasys, meanwhile, formnext proved to be a real sales platform right on the first day. "We're very happy, and pleasantly surprised by how many attendees have come to see us. In our view, formnext's first event has been a rousing success," stated Karolina Radosevic, EMEA event manager at the company. "Our strong commitment to formnext was definitely the right decision – we'll be back next year for sure."

André Bikar, an executive at BIKAR-METALLE, was also highly satisfied with the event as a whole. "We met a lot of new people from many different continents, industries, and application areas, some of them from larger corporate groups," he revealed before affirming that his company will be back in 2016.

Among those describing formnext as the right exhibition and conference for presenting new products was Daan A.J. Kersten, founder and CEO of Additive Industries. "We couldn't have made a better decision than to schedule the product launch of our 3D metal-printing system MetalFAB1 for formnext," he declared. "Attending formnext 2015 enabled us to reach the exact target group we have in mind." Besides praising the event's excellent organization, Kersten is thus already looking forward to "exhibiting at formnext again next year."

"The visitors we interacted with were highly competent, and they included some new contacts with real interest in our products," noted Deniz Okur, a marketing manager for 3D production printers at 3D Systems. "We're now planning to prepare an even greater presence for formnext 2016."

Throughout the event, the formnext conference delved into topics devised by content partner tct and emerged as a real think tank for the latest development and potential applications for additive technologies. It also demonstrated their growing importance in product development and manufacturing. Here, 266 participants attended the cutting-edge presentations held by members of various industries, including Audi, MTU Aero Engines, EDAG Engineering, and BMW.

The special shows at formnext – including "Audi Toolmaking" in particular – also resonated with much of the audience. "From Basic Material to Component", meanwhile, offered an overview of the latest developments in materials. Finally, the formnext Design Dialogue was a very popular meeting point for attendees with an interest in design.

 

 
 
 

TCT Show + Personalize 2016 Announces Call for Papers

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Chester, UK, December 8th 2015 — The TCT Group’s mission is to accelerate the adoption of 3D technologies for design, development and manufacture across all industry sectors. Our global conferences bring together leading users, educators, analysts and commentators in the world of 3D printing, additive manufacturing, CAD/CAE, metrology and inspection, as well as traditional manufacturing processes such as moulding, casting and CNC machining.

In 2016, the conference will see perhaps the biggest changes to the format and focus since its inception. While a number of traditional presentations from users of 3D technologies throughout the process chain are sought, these will be complemented by live debate and discussion, interactive sessions and addresses from speakers whose expertise lies on the fringes of the TCT realm.

With that in mind the conferences team is now ready to receive abstracts for the 2016 conference stream, set to take place on September 28th and 29th at the NEC, Birmingham, UK, on the following topics:

  • The role of technology in the ideation process
  • CAD/CAE software as a competitive advantage
  • Prototyping — use cases for 3D printing
  • Prototyping — alternatives to 3D printing
  • Integrating additive manufacturing into production environments
  • Developing process chains to make best use of additive technologies
  • Assessing additive technologies
  • Comparing technology classes for manufacturing
  • Updates on metals AM processes
  • Updates on polymer AM processes
  • Techniques and processes for inspecting AM components
  • Metrology solutions from design to manufacture

Technology users and researchers are encouraged to submit a working title, 100 word abstract and confirmation of speaker availability to james@rapidnews.com before Friday April 29th. Preference will be given to early applications.

Please note that in a change of policy the TCT Show + Personalize Conference will no longer accept submissions from machine or materials vendors or service providers, however we welcome contacts for your innovative users with interesting stories to tell.

 

 

TCT Show + Personalize Hailed as the Must Attend Event for 3D Technologies

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Chester, UK, 26th October 2015: Following the celebration of the 20th edition of TCT Show + Personalize , the organisers Rapid News Publications Ltd reported that attendance for the show has hit over 6000 (pending BPA audit), a record attendance across the two-day iteration of the show.
 
Over 200 companies exhibited, representing the whole ecosystem of innovative tools for designing and making across product development, engineering and true manufacturing. The unprecedented array of over 70 different 3D printing and additive manufacturing machines on show shared the hall with a exhaustive display of supporting, complementary and competitive 3D technologies.
 
The conference arena once again brought together thought-leaders and industry heavyweights from EnvisionTec, HP, Autodesk, Boeing and Lotus F1, who presented to more than 1500 conference attendees during the event, a testament to the insights on offer.
 
This mix of technology and education ensures that TCT Show + Personalize remains the leading 3D printing, additive manufacturing and product development technology show in the UK, the success also reaffirmed its importance to the global market with exhibitors coming from 23 countries across the globe and visitors attending from 45 different countries.
 
Duncan Wood, C.O.O and Event Director at Rapid News Publications Ltd, commented: “Another record breaking year for TCT saw more exhibitors than ever before — including the most 3D printing machine manufacturers ever assembled under one roof — take part in the 20thanniversary event.  A resulting increase in floor space, more international visitors and solid growth again in overall visitor numbers when compared to the last two-day event in 2013 ensures the UK event continues to be the benchmark and one from which we can continue our global expansion.
 
We are delighted with the feedback from our visitors this year, which we believe proves that TCT Show remains among the most valuable dates in any designer, engineer or manufacturing professional’s diary.”
 
Stephen Suddell, Key Account Manager, Assystem UK Ltd commented: “Really first class show with a superbly diverse collection of stands and state of the art presentations. Excellent.”
 
Other visitors had travelled from further afield, to participate: “The TCT show was an extremely worthwhile event for me, especially considering that I travelled from South Africa at considerable cost. I'll be back!” explained Glenn Kieser, Managing Director, 3DWorx.
 
Newcomers and veterans alike visit TCT Show to develop the knowledge that could prove vital to the future of their projects and businesses. Karl O'Mahony, Product Development Manager at EasyFix Rubber Products shared his experience: “Overall a great show and a must for anyone already involved or starting out in 3D printing, whether you are looking to purchase a machine or just expand your knowledge on the advancements that are being made in 3D printing technology on an ongoing basis, the TCT show is a great place to achieve those aims.”
 
TCT Show + Personalize 2016 takes place 28th to 29thSeptember at the NEC, Birmingham.

- ENDS -

Note to Editors: TCT Show is a two-day event except every third year when it co-locates alongside another Rapid News-owned event, Interplas, and becomes a three-day event. The next three-day event will take place in 2017. The 2015 edition saw a record attendance for the two-day iteration of TCT Show. BPA audit pending.