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Summer Is Over! Here Are the September Trade Fairs to Keep an Eye Out For

Now that we’re all done with the heat waves and beach vacations, it’s time to cast our eyes to the upcoming fall season of trade fairs and see what’s in store.

PLASA 2024: September 1st – 3rd; London, UK

London’s premier international event for live entertainment technology promises three full days of connection, discovery and inspiration for industry professionals. Building on the success of previous years, this edition will showcase the latest technological advancements in audio, AV, lighting, rigging, and staging, drawing over 6,000 like-minded pros from around the globe. At the heart of PLASA 2024 is a buzzing show floor featuring over 200 exhibitor stands where attendees can connect with leading brands and explore next-generation technology. This year's lineup is expected to include global product launches and UK debuts, offering a unique opportunity to get hands-on with cutting-edge tech before it hits the market.

The event is not just about products but also about people and ideas. The dedicated networking zones and engaging show programme will facilitate meaningful connections and discussions. Industry leaders will share their insights through inspiring talks, technical deep-dives and collaborative panels. These sessions are designed to provide valuable knowledge and foster professional growth. One of the standout features of PLASA 2024 is the practical training and live audio demonstrations. Leading manufacturers will deliver hands-on sessions that allow participants to experience the latest innovations firsthand. This immersive approach ensures that visitors leave with practical skills and a deeper understanding of new technologies.

Picture: PLASA

IAW 2024: September 3rd – 5th; Cologne, Germany

The 36th International Trade Fair for Retail Promotions and Imports (IAW) concluded on a high note, showcasing an impressive portfolio of products and powering valuable discussions among industry professionals. Held over three days, the event attracted 285 exhibitors from 26 countries, including 50 first-time exhibitors from 16 nations. It’s a track record that the upcoming edition will try to improve on and break barriers.

IAW presents a diverse range of goods, from springtime offers and garden furniture to seasonal merchandise, toys, confectionery, and home accessories. This variety provided ample inspiration for buyers. The event's overall success is echoed by exhibitors from last edition, with many expressing satisfaction with the turnout and quality of interactions. ‘Monday in particular was a good day,’ testified Oliver Reichstein, Sales Manager at TopTen. The international mix of visitors also delighted exhibitors like Erwin Verhaert, Account Manager at Top Brands from the Netherlands, who reported a strong presence of customers from across Europe.

The fair saw around 5,400 visitors, marking a slight increase in footfall despite challenges such as high hotel prices in the Cologne area and transport strikes. The event's three-day duration was praised by participants like Frank Werm, Managing Director of OSMA Werm, who appreciated the concise yet comprehensive format.

Picture: IAW

Automechanika Frankfurt 2024: September 10th – 15th; Frankfurt, Germany

Frankfurt will again become the rightful epicentre for the automotive world as Automechanika Frankfurt 2024 returns under the inspiring motto “Where passion meets business.” This renowned trade fair is set to host professionals from across the globe. Automechanika Frankfurt 2024 will come prepared with an extensive program filled with presentations, events, and guided tours, covering key topics such as digitalization, new technologies, recruitment, and professional development. The product portfolio is, as always, more than enough of a reason to attend the fair as it features automotive electronics, body repair, chassis, tank systems, tire assembly, repair equipment, corrosion protection, lubricants, vehicle parts, and wheels. This makes the fair a one-stop shop for major buyers in Europe and beyond.

A big component of Automechanika is going to be the classic car market as the global demand for classic cars is spiking, with sales in the classic car market increasing by an average of 8.8 percent annually over the past four years. That’s 39.9 billion US dollars in 2023. Over 300 exhibitors have already confirmed their participation, showcasing products in the Parts & Components, Diagnostics & Repair, and Body & Paint areas.

Picture: Automechanika Frankfurt

SPACE 2024: September 17th – 19th; Rennes, France

Rennes will once again host the prestigious SPACE 2024, a premier international event dedicated to the animal production and agricultural sector. Since its inception in 1986, SPACE has become a vital meeting point for professionals in the industry. Visitors can expect to see the latest in animal feed and nutrition, milking equipment, farm machinery, animal health products, genetics, agrobiology, renewable energies, aquaculture supplies, and veterinary medicine. With a strong focus on animal breeding, the event is renowned for its numerous animal competitions, reinforcing its status as a hub for genetic advancements.

The event also highlights the importance of innovation and youth engagement in agriculture through the Tech'Agri Challenge. Initiated by Bretagne Développement Innovation, INNOZH, and SPACE, this competition encourages students from agricultural and digital training programs to develop technical solutions to real-world agricultural issues. Participants range from vocational bachelor's degree students to master's and engineering students. The challenge not only allows agricultural students to think outside their training environment but also helps digital training students identify potential career opportunities within the agricultural sector.

Picture: SPACE

MICRONORA 2024: September 24th – 27th; Besançon, France

We’re rounding off the list at Besançon, a quickly growing region known for microtechnology and precision engineering. Here MICRONORA opens its doors to thousands, who want to stay on top of the rapid evolution of high precision, miniaturisation, and the integration of complex systems. In today’s world, where technological advancements must align with energy efficiency and resource conservation, miniaturised solutions are crucial across all sectors. MICRONORA 2024 addresses the entire value chain for companies requiring precision and miniaturisation. From research and development solutions to the integration of complex systems, the exhibition is the place to be.

This year, the ZOOM working group, consisting of industrialists, researchers, and experts, will focus on intelligence in microtechnologies, with a particular emphasis on Artificial Intelligence (AI). As data management and AI become increasingly central to the industry, MICRONORA 2024 will explore how these tools can enhance productivity and efficiency in a clean, decarbonized, and circular economy.