The Federal Government’s renewed emphasis on the manufacturing sector — through its Powering Ideas strategy — reinforces the significance of National Manufacturing Week (NMW 2011), which is scheduled for the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre from 24—27 May 2011.
Exhibitors have already booked over 60% of available floor space, while visitor marketing is already underway to attract a strong attendance for the May 2011 event, according to organisers Reed Exhibitions.
Co-located with Austech and — for the first time — including the triennial Ausplas international plastics industry exhibition, NMW 2011 will serve as the event that brings the manufacturing industry together.
NMW will again feature ten specialist product zones, representing the major aspects of the industry, as well as offering demonstrations of new technologies and seminars designed to help manufacturers embrace the key industry challenges.
NMW 2011 will take place against a Federal Government backdrop of renewed focus on opportunities for the manufacturing sector.
Speaking to Reed Exhibitions, Senator the Hon Kim Carr, Minister for Innovation, Industry, Science and Research commented, “Manufacturing is critical to our future. By having a manufacturing sector we add value to the resources we mine, we create high-tech and high-wage jobs and we attract the investment in research and development that only comes from having a manufacturing capacity. We cannot fall into the trap of losing our manufacturing skills.”
According to Reed Exhibitions, manufacturers are confident that NMW 2011 will continue the event’s reputation as the event that strengthens Australian manufacturing by bringing suppliers and customers together, as well as providing access to new innovations and actionable business ideas.
Paul Baker, exhibition manager for NMW 2011 comments, “The biggest challenge for Australian manufacturers is strengthening their ability to compete in world markets.
“With this in mind, industry is looking with interest to the Federal Government’s initiatives to support the manufacturing sector. These will no doubt be a hot topic at NMW 2011 — along with broader discussions about exploring new markets and new, value-added products and services.
“In short, NMW 2011 is shaping up to be a significant event for Australia’s manufacturing industry. Space is being snapped up quickly — and so we urge all companies who are considering exhibiting to contact the NMW team to confirm their participation.”
Visit www.nationalmanufacturingweek.com.au for contact details, and for regular updates in advance of the event, as plans are firmed for features and parallel events such as seminars and demonstration areas.