In fact, many companies have been making efforts and working on projects in this direction for some time now. The aim, for example, is to print spare parts directly where they are needed and not to send them on a shipping journey from the main plant. However, this process is not so easy to implement. For example, it has to be forgery-proof and deliver a defined quality in a reliable and repeatable manner. There are many exciting projects in this area that will also be on show at Formnext.

This can already overcome a number of challenges and, above all, save a lot of physical transportation. However, I doubt whether this alone can solve the current problems in the supply chain. There are also bottlenecks in the area of raw materials such as wood or aluminum or semiconductors, or a lack of personnel capacity.

Which technologies are the focus of Formnext? Can a trend be identified there?

What has surprised me very positively is the number of innovations that our industry is coming back from the corona period with. Many companies will be showing exciting new developments and world premieres. This proves how important Formnext is for such an innovative industry. Specifically, these innovations include new 3D printing systems and technologies. We will also be showcasing the entire process chain of modern industrial production, and here too our exhibitors will be presenting many new things - for example new materials, systems for post-processing and software solutions. More and more traditional material manufacturers are discovering additive manufacturing as an exciting market. Another trend is about enabling applications in larger quantities, i.e. automated, faster and industrial-scale production. We will also be presenting exciting innovations on this topic.

What do visitors need to bear in mind regarding the coronavirus measures? Are special preparations required?

After careful consideration and intensive consultation with our exhibitor advisory board and other key accounts, we have decided on a 2G rule at Formnext and want to ensure that the trade fair takes place under the highest safety conditions for our customers. This means that we are one of the first trade fair organizers to only allow access to vaccinated or recovered guests. In this way, we are protecting unvaccinated people and our customers while still allowing a completely normal trade fair and meeting quality. There are no distancing requirements, one-way street regulations, privacy screens or catering bans. Exhibitors and visitors can therefore concentrate on the most important thing: direct interaction between people. All the more reason for us to look forward to seeing the AM community again in a safe environment in Frankfurt.