James Selka
CEO, Manufacturing Technologies Association (MTA)
Ireland has long been a great place in which to manufacture, benefitting from a flexible and creative workforce, which in turn has helped establish its growing reputation in high quality engineering.
Ireland’s vibrant economy makes it an ideal place for manufacturers to base themselves. By adapting to new, advanced manufacturing processes and practices, Ireland has become a go-to destination from which to outsource large scale production projects.
The one thing Ireland is lacking, though, is a national exhibition that allows its manufacturers to purchase new manufacturing technologies at home.
The National Manufacturing Conference and Exhibition is set to change this, with a section of the show – Future Engineering Ireland (FEI) – dedicated to creating a one-stop-shop for production engineering solutions.
Bringing the manufacturing industry together – in Ireland
For too long, Irish manufacturers have had to travel to the UK or other European countries to source their capital equipment; a costly and time-consuming exercise.
FEI was established in 2019 and will return to Dublin Citywest Exhibition Centre on the 29 – 30 of January, where an impressive line-up of manufacturing leaders, academics and government agencies will engage in a stimulating blend of keynote addresses and debates.
The show itself has grown from being a one-day event into a two-day exhibition, highlighting the need and demand for Irish manufacturers to have their own national showcase.
Technology is shaping the world around us and changing the way we think about the production process. The ability to invest in new equipment and solutions will result in a real step change in productivity.
Helping secure investment opportunities for local businesses
Manufacturing technology has never been more affordable or accessible than it is now. With finance available to stimulate investment, it is key that manufacturers look to invest in future-proofing their business.
Being able to see this technology up close, and to witness its capabilities is essential for any manufacturer weighing up an investment opportunity.
The National Manufacturing Conference and Exhibition and Future Engineering Ireland is therefore an unmissable opportunity and should be at the top of all Irish manufacturers’ agendas for the start of 2020.