In this industry, we are privileged to benefi t from an amazing array of suppliers – from T-nuts to collaborative robots, clamps to window production lines, the enormous collection of machinery and materials really is some kind of wonderful – examples of which we shine a light on in every issue, every website article and social media posting. But we all know, that nothing beats a great trade show. It has, for obvious reasons been something we’ve had to make do without – the last major event in this country was the W Exhibition & Elements back in October 2018. Alongside that, the numerous and wellattended ‘open-house or ‘at-home’ events held by many top brands were also mothballed – although some demonstrated their digital prowess with one-to-one online VR scenarios – but ultimately we need a good trade show, and soon.
Interzum held its much-anticipated digital event recently, and the PR suggests a good time was had by those who invested their time. Ligna will also roll out an online offering this coming September – and while both seem well-conceived and choc full of ‘content’, I am sure I’m not alone in yearning for live events to be viable and safe to attend once again. It really is the only way to compare and contrast in the same space and take a reasoned overview of available options. As its stands, W Exhibition & Elements will in be with us again in February 2022 – a few short months away now – and I’m very much looking forward to setting up shop once again, alongside fellow exhibitors and visitors.
Another reminder, should it be needed, is the recent news of the Chancellor’s introduction of a new super-deduction tax incentive which gives manufacturers extra value for any investment in machinery and technology. The measure allows companies to cut their tax bill by up to 25p for every £1 invested, and suppliers tell me it looks to be having the desired effect of pulling investment forward, or at least unblocking deferment notes on planned improvements. This is a time-limited scenario, and I’ve got a feeling the deadline for this incentive of 31st March 2023 will be coming around very quickly.
I hope you enjoy the issue.
