PPMA TOTAL 2022
As PPMA TOTAL Show 2022 returns to the NEC Birmingham from September 27 – 29, Richard Little, the event’s Show Director, provides a preview of this year’s event.
Now in its 34th year, The show’s successful formula is based on the fact that its agenda is always a true reflection of the direction of the industry, the needs of its members and the requirements of its visitors.
So we started by asking Richard what this year’s event has in store.
MEPCA: What can visitors expect from PPMA TOTAL 2022?
Richard Little: At PPMA, we pride ourselves in delivering the largest processing and packaging machinery, robotics and industrial vision event in the UK, all under one roof. And, once again, we’ll be back in hall 5 at the NEC Birmingham to present some of the latest smart manufacturing technologies, covering the entire production line – in fact, we often refer to it as the ‘production line’ event.
This year, the show will incorporate three major exhibition brands, including Pakex and Interphex, feature 350 exhibitors and represent over 2,000 brands. Visitors will therefore benefit from unparalleled access to best-in-class machinery and ancillary products, live equipment demonstrations, and industry experts, as well as the opportunity to explore new solutions covering a vast range of sectors.
These sectors range from food and beverage, pharmaceutical, household products and toiletries, building materials and supplies, pet care, micro-brewery and distilleries, to FMCG and contract packing.
M: What will be the key focus for the show this year?
RL: While innovation will undoubtedly be a continuing theme throughout the show, with such an exciting line-up of exhibitors for the 2022 event, and with so much on offer in terms of equipment displays, smart manufacturing solutions and live working demonstrations, it is hard to pinpoint exactly what the key focus will be at the show.
However, as economic challenges continue to place increasing demands on every business, machinery and equipment that can deliver real production efficiencies and cost savings through automation will be a key focus throughout the show floor. Labour-saving machines and processing equipment will certainly be a draw for visitors looking to reduce the financial impact of rising labour costs. I also anticipate a post-pandemic return to sustainability being at the forefront of production requirements once again, with exhibitors keen to demonstrate how their equipment can adapt to handle more eco-friendly materials and processes.
But what I truly find most exciting about exhibitions such as PPMA TOTAL is that they offer visitors insight into new innovations and solutions that they didn’t even know they were looking for!
M: Will there be any live events?
RL: With the show renowned for showcasing the largest single gathering of live demonstrations of working machinery on exhibitor stands, and the latest technologies in smart manufacturing equipment, visitors can expect a busy three days. There will also be a daily programme of presentations, interactive discussions and workshops at our onsite Seminar Theatre. Centred on the theme ‘The Future of….’, industry experts and exhibitors will share their thoughts, opinions and future insights on topical issues affecting the industry. We will be hosting a gala dinner on the first evening for more informal networking. Finally, there will be an opportunity to celebrate the best in innovation, smart manufacturing and entrepreneurship at the PPMA Group Industry Awards, which will be presented to award winners during the final afternoon of the show.
M: Why visit PPMA TOTAL 2022?
RL: Although the past two years have cemented the value of virtual events, it’s clear that while they have enabled businesses to stay informed and connect with suppliers, they simply can’t replicate the benefits of live events. Our visitor audience wants to move on from virtual product launches and events and get close to the technology – to touch and try, and to speak one-to-one with product and applications experts. What’s more, with the PPMA TOTAL Show representing the largest gathering of industry specialists, all of whom have years of knowledge and expertise, where else can you go to gain free and invaluable consultancy, advice and input, all under one roof.
