Date: 16 October 2024
She emphasized, “The new supporting programme of glasstec 2024 is all about the Hot Topics: Circular Economy, Digital Technologies, and Decarbonisation – key issues driving the industry.” Read more to discover the details.
Looking back: how has glasstec as the world-leading trade fair of the glass industry developed over the past years? Where does it stand today?
Petra Cullmann: glasstec has seen an impressive development over the past few years and is now stronger than ever as the glass industry’s world-leading trade fair. At every edition, exhibitors cover the complete spectrum of the sector – from glass production and processing to ultra-modern applications. And glasstec is not only a central marketplace but also a platform for innovation, knowledge transfer and networking. Here the industry players come together – from industry to the skilled crafts, from construction to architects.
How important is international attendance at glasstec? What do you do to attract exhibitors and visitors from all over the world?
Petra Cullmann: We are especially proud of the diversity and international flair of glasstec. With over 1,250 exhibitors from 50 countries the trade fair also testifies to its global relevance once again this year. We are delighted to welcome large international participations from Germany, China, Italy and the USA while Turkey and the Netherlands are also strongly represented. Through close cooperation with our foreign representations, international partners and associations, we bring together the Who’s Who of the industry in Düsseldorf which makes it so attractive for attendees from all over the world.
Which innovations and highlights will feature this year (new additions and/or tried-and-tested)?
Petra Cullmann: This year glasstec will bank on central themes that will decisively impact the future of this industry – Hot Topics such as Circularity, Digital Technologies and Decarbonisation. These focal themes will also be picked up on in the extensive supporting programme of glasstec, the glasstec conference. Beyond this, exhibitors play a crucial role by providing key impetus with their latest technologies, products and innovations. Their contributions underscore the innovative power of glasstec and point to the direction the industry is moving in. Remaining a central highlight will be the innovation show glass technology live showcasing their latest technology developments in glass in cooperation with leading technical universities. In addition, the sold-out Start-up Zone presents creative and forward-looking technologies of young companies with the potential of sustainably shaping the sector.
Where do you see the current challenges but also opportunities for the international (glass) industry?
Petra Cullmann: The glass industry is about to enter a phase of profound transformation. High energy costs as well as the stronger focus on more eco-friendly and resource-saving production methods impact the industry as a whole. However, it is precisely these challenges that also bring enormous opportunities. At glasstec 2024 we offer a platform for discussing these topics and flagging up approaches to solutions. With our varied programme including the glass trends sessions, that present pooled industry know-how from theory and practice, as well as the glass melting pot, a platform for researchers and industry partners, we promote exchange and create scope for pioneering ideas.
To conclude on a more personal note – in 3 words: glass is for me…
Petra Cullmann: ... A fascinating, transparent material, old and yet new time and again, that offers endless transformative potential for improving our quality of life.
Transparency, Fascination, Quality of Life
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