New alliance to strengthen additive manufacturing show

Formnext, the additive manufacture and toolmaking show in Frankfurt will now be 'formnext powered by TCT' - in a strategic alliance that brings together two key brands in manufacturing.

The organiser of formnext, Mesago Messe Frankfurt and the organiser of TCT Show + Personalize, Rapid News, have agreed on the long-term strategic partnership.

The event, which takes place 24–27 November, will be substantially strengthened by the addition of the TCT brand, which also incorporates the TCT Magazine.

“This partnership offers additional strength to the formnext concept, creating a very attractive, international and long-lasting trade show concept,” said Johann Thoma, CEO of Mesago Messe Frankfurt. “The benefits to the additive technologies/3D printing sector are most obvious, but the tool making sector stands to gain from the innovative partnership.”

The partnership facilitates a high-level two day conference with international speakers running in parallel to the show.

Duncan Wood, COO of Rapid News said: “Mesago and Rapid News Publications have come together to work with and for the wider industry. Our research highlighted the requirement for an annual event, in a global hub, with trusted organisers. Formnext powered by TCT will deliver this and more, giving the industry a stable international platform from which to continue its unprecedented growth. The conference program organised by TCT’s experienced and well-connected team will be highly attractive for attendees from all over the world. We will bring over 20 years of expertise in the additive technologies/3D printing sector to bear. We have a deep understanding of the trends, innovations and are well connected to the world’s finest speakers.”

The conference program will not only focus on additive technologies and 3D printing, but will also follow the trends and latest insights in the field of tool making.

Johann Thoma said: “The combination of a substantial exhibition and an expansion of the well-respected TCT conference series will make formnext powered by TCT the place to be for additive technologies, 3D printing and tool making. Knowledge meets expertise, expertise meets customers. A platform that can be a benefit for everyone involved."

Formnext powered by TCT will take place in Hall 3 at the Frankfurt exhibition centre.