Digitization and the circular economy were obviously the most important topics. Many visitors were looking for very specific solutions for their niche markets. And this is exactly where Lercher can score points. At the joint stand of the VDWF (Association of German Tool and Mold Makers), we were able to benefit from this association's large network and hold numerous discussions, which also led to specific inquiries. New, efficient suppliers are currently being sought everywhere, particularly in the medical technology sector, due to increased requirements (new EU standard). Our range of cleanroom-manufactured precision parts caught the attention of a number of visitors to our stand.
But we were also able to attract attention and put a smile on the faces of trade fair visitors at a completely different stand. At the stand of Arburg (manufacturer of plastic injection molding machines), the paper injection molding process was demonstrated using one of our tools. And every time the mold closed in the injection molding machine, a little boy gave his beloved a peck on the cheek. Our motif on the opening and closing injection mold attracted a lot of attention.
As in almost all industries, the topic of "young talent" is of course also an issue in the plastics sector. This is why a Career Friday was organized for the first time at this international trade fair. The trade fair organizers, exhibitor advisory board and exhibitors had jointly organized a campaign for pupils, students and career starters under the motto "Mold your dreams, mold your future". The aim was to inform young people about career opportunities in the plastics industry and at the same time impart knowledge about plastics. The campaign was extremely well received - rides, activities, tours of the trade fair stands and insights behind the scenes of plastics processing were organized. Over 600 vocational and technical college students and apprentices came from Vorarlberg and Tyrol alone.
According to a survey conducted by the trade fair organizer, the plastics industry is optimistic about the future, despite major challenges, despite the current trend in Europe's industry. We at Lercher can only agree with this.
