Digital formats accepted

In an initial summary, it should be noted that METAV digital was seen as a test run to clarify which digital formats can actually be used in hybrid event concepts. "At Kern Microtechnik, we had already gained initial experience with digital formats, but we wanted to use METAV digital to take the next step and find out whether virtual trade fair participation is worthwhile for us," says Peter Schöps, Area Sales Manager at Kern Microtechnik GmbH, Eschenlohe. Of course, it was also important to show our colors after the long dry spell without a single face-to-face trade fair for metalworking in Germany. "The pandemic has shown us the opportunity to do a wide variety of things online. Be it online meetings, webinars, product presentations, customer portals or even virtual trade fairs. The digital world knows no boundaries. It is therefore particularly important for WFL to keep up with this trend. With METAV digital, the VDW has offered us a good solution for being present on the market with our customers," confirms Sabine Steinkellner, Head of Marketing, WFL Millturn Technologies GmbH & Co KG, Linz, Austria.

No substitute for face-to-face events

Nevertheless, digital trade fairs are no substitute for face-to-face events. All players agree on this without exception and are looking forward to the second half of the year, when trade fairs will be possible again. Andreas Enzenbach, Vice President Marketing and Corporate Communications, Mapal Dr. Kress KG in Aalen, says: "There is a huge lack of personal contact. With digital formats, it is very important that exhibitors can also enter into dialog. This must not be one-dimensional, but must always be bi-directional." And Dr. Wilfried Schäfer, Executive Director of the VDW, adds: "In the coming days, we will take a very close look at the results and feedback on METAV digital and decide which formats can also offer added value in a hybrid event."

However, METAV digital is not yet closed. It will be available to visitors and interested parties remotely for another three weeks until April 16, 2021. "The trade fair tour and a visit to all 30 web sessions are still available at http://www.metav-digital.de," says Stephanie Simon. "We are also offering a special forum every week. Topics include machine safety, intelligent production and, finally, recruiting young talent. Special target groups are also invited to these special forums," she explains.