SouthMACH 2017: A showcase of innovation and learning

There’s a real buzz around the South Island as one of New Zealand’s biggest and most anticipated engineering, machinery, industrial and technology events SouthMACH, returns to Christchurch in less than eight weeks.

The organisers, XPO Exhibitions, are keen to further capitalise on a strong 2015 prior event which enjoyed strong growth in industry visitors. With new features, a focus on high-tech manufacturing, innovation, and education as well as an estimated 100+ exhibiting companies SouthMACH 2017 is poised for take-off as the best ever.

This year’s exhibitor list is impressive with a range of new industry suppliers on board in addition to established ones. Visitors will be able to talk with global experts, get up close and hands- on with the latest tools, products, technology and services, take advantage of exclusive show- only deals, up- skill and stay current with a wide range of free to attend seminars and network with fellow professionals.

Christchurch’s Horncastle Arena is set to come alive on 24 and 25 May as SouthMACH arrives with a showcase of products and innovations that are shaping the industry both now and into the future. Companies such as Design Energy, John Brooks Automation, Balluff, Dyno, Fuji Xerox 3D and many others will be bringing to the event the very latest innovations in cutting- edge products and technology. In addition, we’re excited to welcome to SouthMACH two of New Zealand’s most innovative product development consultancies – Caliber Design and Locus Research. They’ll be showcasing some exciting projects they’ve been involved with, the Ubco 2x2 electric off- road motorbike and the world renowned Shotover Camera, designed and manufactured in Queenstown.

Celebrating the Heartland of Manufacturing will continue as a dominant theme across the two days through live product demonstrations, special features and a full schedule of industryled education and learning Seminars. The schedule will cover the hot topics of today’s world of manufacturing with presentations on ‘Advanced Manufacturing’, ‘Industry 4.0’ and Collaboration between design companies and manufacturers. It will also include a Competenz industry apprenticeship workshop and ‘speed dating’ type sessions where employers and potential employees can meet as well as a panel discussion and networking session with NZMEA. A full seminar schedule will be published shortly so be sure to keep an eye out at www.southmach.co.nz/visitor-information/ seminars and plan your visit early.

“There is very strong industry support for SouthMACH 2017,” says SouthMACH Exhibition Manager Aad van der Poel, “Which, I believe reflects the current industry and economic sentiment. We see many exhibitors returning after a more challenging period keen to keep abreast of new technology. It is clear the industry is gaining confidence and adopting a more positive outlook and SouthMACH 2017 will only reinforce this with amazing examples of successful hi-tech Kiwi Manufacturing capability.”

“Every SouthMACH, the buzz grows. With world-class seminars, the cream of suppliers, a myriad of opportunities to network and learn. All of this helps position the South Island as a high-tech manufacturing hub of the South Pacific. This SouthMACH is the ‘not to be missed’ event for 2017”

SouthMACH 2017 runs from 24 to 25 May at Horncastle Arena, Addington, Christchurch. Free registration is now open for Industry Professionals wishing to attend. Simply visit www. southmach.co.nz/visitor-information/register.

To see a full list of SouthMACH 2017 exhibitors, please visit www.southmach.co.nz/ visitor-information/2017- exhibitiors