As the focal point for all three activities, Farnborough provides the perfect setting for an exhibition showcasing the very latest advanced materials and manufacturing techniques for these industries, Southern Manufacturing and Auto Aero 2013, which returns to its home, alongside Farnborough Airport on February 13-14. Since relocation to its present site in Farnborough in 2008, the show has enjoyed consistent growth in popularity, with both exhibitor and visitor numbers rising significantly year-on-year. Consisting mainly of small stands, rather than a handful of large ones, gives the show a perennial energy and forward-looking feel that never seems to disappoint. The 2012 show was the most successful ever, attracting exhibitors from all over the UK, continental Europe and even companies from the USA, China and Israel. Visitor numbers topped all records, drawn by the unique mix of large and small suppliers; local specialist firms and big-name international manufacturers – all together in a single venue. The co-location of the specialist Automotive/Aerospace engineering show with the more general manufacturing and electronics events makes it possible for visitors to cover an enormous amount of ground in a single visit. The 2013 event looks set to raise the bar once more. At the time of writing, exhibitor numbers are up 30% compared to this time last year, occupying 5,350m2 of exhibition area – a 35% increase on 2012. The importance of the show to the UK’s aerospace, autosport and defence engineering industries is underlined by the number of visitors from these sectors in 2012, at 33%, 26% and 27% respectively. Those with a specific interest in advanced materials and composites also attended in large numbers, accounting for nearly 30% of all visitors. Clearly, there is plenty to see for those with an interest in new materials and the manufacturing tools to work with them. One of the strongest features of the Southern Manufacturing show is that it has become large enough to attract the big name suppliers, but has remained accessible to smaller, specialist firms. So it is possible to see the latest big-ticket machinery from XYZ Machine Tools, Yamazaki Mazak, HAAS Automation, AgieCharmilles and Amada, alongside bespoke one-off solutions from specialist experts in design, composites and engineering plastics. Previous exhibitors include C&B Composite Solutions, a manufacturer of precision carbon fibre assemblies. Alongside these are a wealth of suppliers of materials and consumables, such as KD Fedderson, Cotswold Plastics, Righton, Henkel Loctite, Electrolube, Lohman Adhesives and literally hundreds more. Advanced manufacturing is also well represented, with companies such as LaserLines and 3T RPD. There’s also CAD/CAM software, metrology, laser measurement systems, fasteners, enclosures, materials handling, laser marking – in short, just about every conceivable tool or production aid is on show. And that’s just in the Manufacturing section: a similarly wide selection of things to see awaits visitors in the neighbouring Electronics section. Southern Manufacturing and Auto Aero is also an event for subcontractors offering a broad range of services, from design to fabrication. Within this area are numerous specialists in precision engineering, aerospace, automotive, medical and defence. The accessibility of the show for smaller suppliers encourages a rich eco-system of specialists from all areas, many of whom do not exhibit elsewhere. The wealth of experience on tap in a relatively intimate venue that encourages one-to-one communication is a powerful draw from many visitors. Highlights of the 2013 show will include an expanded Machinery Centre, where visitors will be able to see the latest machine tools being put through their paces. A new Electronics Production Area in the significantly enlarged Hall 2 will feature a fully functional assembly line, demonstrating some of the very latest production hardware and assembly systems. The Auto Aero and Subcontracting areas will once again feature Technology Trails to enable visitors to find companies of interest quickly and easily. Within the venue are two lecture theatres running continuous free technical seminars over both days, covering a wide variety of technical and business topics. Southern Manufacturing & Auto Aero 2013 and participation in the technical seminar sessions is completely free to business visitors. To register online for tickets or to find out about exhibiting at this unique event, visit the website below or call 01784 880 890. www.industry.co.uk
