At the same time, the trade fair organizer is working flat out on a health protection concept and a digital addition to the world's leading trade fair for additive manufacturing and modern industrial production.

"We are still convinced of the unique character and advantages of a face-to-face trade fair," says Sascha Wenzler, Vice President Formnext, Mesago Messe Frankfurt. "And even if digital exchange will never be able to replace personal contact, it offers more opportunities than was imaginable just a few weeks ago."

This is why Formnext wants to focus more on digital perspectives: exhibitors will also be able to present products and solutions digitally to an international trade audience. Concepts and platforms are currently being developed for this purpose.

Organizer looks hopefully to November

The resolutions passed by the federal government and the federal states on May 6, according to which trade fairs no longer fall under the category of major events that pose a particular risk to health, also provide reason for a hopeful outlook for November. "This is very good news not only for the trade fair industry, but for the economy as a whole," says Wenzler. "After all, trade fairs are an important driver of innovation and value creation in industry, especially after months of economic standstill in many sectors and areas."

As the health of exhibitors, visitors and employees continues to be a top priority, concepts are currently being developed together with Messe Frankfurt to ensure a high level of health protection. These include, for example, reducing the density of people, high hygiene standards and contact tracing options. These concepts are currently being coordinated with the responsible authorities and will then be implemented accordingly.

In addition to health protection, other important aspects are also incorporated into the design of Formnext 2020. Among other things, the economic environment, the economic situation in the AM industry and the development of travel opportunities in Europe and the world will be taken into account. "Ultimately, even in these challenging times, we want to organize a trade fair that takes into account the situation and the needs of the participants and the market in the best possible way," explains Wenzler.