The high-tech sector is a key pillar of the Dutch economy. And that is not without reason: this sector is representative of about 50% of all R&D investments in the Netherlands. What's more, the demand for high tech products is continuing to spiral, which is why precision technology is also developing at a rapid pace. This calls for specialization in numerous fields. Therefore, on November 15 and 16, the 22st edition of the Precision Fair will take place in the Brabanthallen in 's Hertogenbosch (aka Den Bosch). This is where the entire value chain of precision technology comes together to meet and share knowledge about the latest developments.
The Netherlands ranks as one of the most innovative countries in Europe. Every year, the Dutch high-tech industry exports around 22 billion euros worth of goods. Along with this, the demand for even more accurate and finer measurement and advanced manufacturing and engineering techniques has also been rising unabated for years. Therefore, at the Precision Fair, hosted by Mikrocentrum, industry leaders, training institutes, government agencies, technical universities and incubator programs meet annually to work on the future together. "New connections are made and numerous established relationships are fostered," program manager Bart Kooijmans states.
Highlights of the 2022 Edition
A comprehensive program has been set up. For example, keynote speaker Marc Hendrikse, the figurehead of High Tech Systems and Materials (HTSM), will highlight the importance of the sector. Also, more than 325 exhibitors will be represented on the trade show floor over two days. These organizations specialize in fine mechanics, photonics and micro- and nanotechnology, among other fields. Aside from the exhibitors, industry associations can also be found on the expo floor again this year. Among others, DSPE, Euspen, VDMA and ILO-net will be present, as well as new associations such as Minacned, The Dutch Vacuum Association (NEVAC) and The Royal Netherlands Society of Engineers (KIVI).
Plus, the event has much more on offer: a Young Talent program has been set up with pitches and a demo area as well as an arena that showcases universities, colleges, start-ups and knowledge institutes. In addition, a live stage will feature panel discussions, pitches and expert sessions. BNR Nieuwsradio will also host live broadcasts. Both days will end with a networking get-together.
Kooijmans is expecting a large turnout. "I'm looking forward to the fair, and a lot of others are too," he says. "Within just a couple of weeks, three-quarters of the exhibitors had already registered and the rest followed in no time. So there seems to be a need for occasions to meet in person."
Unique opportunities
The fact that the Precision Fair is so popular does not come out of the blue, according to Kooijmans. "Every year at the fair, visitors are given the opportunity to gain important knowledge. Moreover, you get to meet potential partners in an easily accessible way who you can do business with in the future, or even with your competitors. This helps strengthen the chain as a whole. Because we are now located in the Brabanthallen, we have plenty of room to welcome new parties. We are not only seeing a growth in the number of exhibitors as a consequence - even more industry associations are present this year and so visitors will have a unique opportunity to represent their company and, for instance, to initiate subsidy projects. And above all, let's not forget all the networking gatherings. It's worth coming just for those," he adds.
In summary: "Definitely come and have a look," Kooijmans says in conclusion. "Den Bosch is conveniently centrally located so I think we can expect people from all over the country."
Will we meet you at the Precision Fair 2023?
General information:
- 15 & 16 November 2023
- Openinghours: 10.00 - 17.00
- Free entrance
- Brabanthallen - 's-Hertogenbosch (NL)
Watch the aftermovie of the 2022 edition of the Precision Fair