Kurz and the Mechanical Engineering Industry Association (VDMA) have both come out in support of the drupa international printing and packaging trade show saying it is an important platform for the industry.
Kurz has confirmed its attendance at the rescheduled drupa from April 20-28, 2021 in Düsseldorf, Germany, stating that the company has been consistently represented at drupa since 1954 and this will not change in the coming year.
The embellishment business added that being the world’s leading trade fair for the printing sector, drupa is an important platform for Kurz to exhibit its latest finishing solutions.
Kurz chairman Walter Kurz said that after seeing the detailed hygiene and infection protection concept presented by the trade fair organisers, it is convinced drupa can take place under safe conditions for visitors and exhibitors alike.
“Discussions with our customers have indicated that they do not want to miss out on this unique industry gathering and the inspiration that drupa provides,” he said.
“Now, especially, the printing industry is looking for new ideas and ways to expand the order books. We have creative solutions to present and look forward to engaging with our customers and partners.”
Kurz said it plans to present upgrades and the latest innovations at drupa 2021, along with the showcase of further developments in the areas of hot stamping, cold and digital transfer, the latest finishing machines, and sustainable decoration solutions at the trade fair.
The company anticipates that drupa 2021 may not be as internationally attended as in the past, but regards its participation at drupa as very important.
VDMA managing director Dr. Markus Heering said drupa is important for getting back into business.
“First exhibitors have cancelled their participation. I understand that entrepreneurs shy away from investment and the risk of infection for their employees at this time. In crises it is important to maintain liquidity, but at the same time it is important to return to normality and to send a clear message to customers: “we believe in business again and want to enter into dialogue with you!” he said.
“The chain of customers and providers holding on to their money, must be broken at some point. I hope that despite the crisis, as many companies as possible will decide to come to drupa and that all of us there will give the signal to start again.”
Dr. Heering said for international visitors who will not be able to travel in April 2021, virtual formats are an access option.
“After all, it is important to bring visitors from key markets who are unable to travel to the event. We need a digital drupa that suitably complements the real event with digital formats – with all the drawbacks that such a digital format entail. We know from discussions with Messe Düsseldorf that they are intensively involved around this topic,” he said.
“[However,] companies report that they reach different target groups with virtual events than at trade fairs. The live streams bring the second, third and fourth levels, together with existing customers.
“In contrast, the first level meets at trade fairs – and new customers or customers of other providers also take advantage of the opportunity to obtain non-binding information. Virtual events are an additional, complementary channel that will find a firm place in marketing however it will not be able to replace the personal exchange and eye contact.”
Exhibitions have been a key contributor to the German economy and even though its government recently mandated for an extended ban on large gatherings until the end of 2020, exhibitions have been given the exemption.
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