Dusseldorf show dazzles: Overseas visitors boost Gglasstec show to match 2002 figures

Glasstec 2004 closed its doors on Saturday, 13th November, having again proved a huge draw for glass professionals. In the region of 54,000 visitors from 81 countries came to the fair, matching the numbers from the previous event in 2002. The number of international visitors also rose significantly from 2002, (60% from outside Germany this time as opposed to 56%).

Exhibitors, including most of those from the UK, were impressed how well qualified visitors were – more than 70% were top managers with decision-making powers. This was also made clear both by the many deals concluded at the fair itself and also by the talks held, opening the way for promising new business relationships.

Positive mood

Commenting on Glasstec, president of the advisory council Siegfried Glaser said: ‘A very positive mood prevailed, especially amongst machinery manufacturers, many of whom quantified the show as the best in years.’

At Glasstec 1,080 exhibitors plus a further 170 associations, scientific institutions and representatives from craft trades presented innovative solutions and products on a net exhibition space of 65,800 square metres. The interest of visitors was primarily focused on glass processing and finishing (48%), glass production (40%), glass products and applications (37%) as well as on tools, spare parts and consumables (30%). 20% of visitors were especially interested in solar technology.

Interest wasn’t only confined to the Messe Dusseldorf halls: Lisec flew around 600 visitors to Austria to view its new machines and exemplary IGU operation; and Guardian did its own off-site thing by holding a conference and party for over 1,000 guests.