Formnext again demonstrated the relevance of additive manufacturing processes. In its ninth year, the Formnext exhibition welcomed 32,851 specialists and managers (50 % international), representing a further increase of 11 % on the numbers recorded for the previous year.

With 859 exhibitors (59 % of which were international), it proved to be another record year for Formnext. The exhibitors, varied events, and special shows demonstrated the wide range of possibilities offered by additive manufacturing for numerous user industries, including medical technology, automotive and mechanical engineering, architecture, and aerospace. Visitors were able to discover innovative solutions that they could use to make their own production more efficient and sustainable.

The latest next-level developments in industrial 3D Printing were also on display. Exhibitors presented robotic 3D Printing systems for plastics, for instance, which can even be used to print entire boats. While in metals, companies such as AMCM, Eplus3D, InssTek and others demonstrated that highly complex components weighing several tons, such as rocket engines, can be manufactured in one piece using precision AM.

In nanotechnology, exhibitors such as BMF and Nano Dimension presented new solutions that can be used, for example, for the 3D printing of electronic components and much more and will make numerous new applications and products possible in the future. The high level of innovation was also demonstrated by established players and young start-ups alike, including Bosch, D3-AM, Reinforce 3D and Venox Systems, which presented the latest additive manufacturing technologies.

The supporting events at Formnext 2023 were very diverse, focusing on a wide range of user industries, from automotive and construction through to mechanical engineering. The new service provider marketplace put the spotlight on the special role of service providers in expanding the AM user base. The new multistage concept was well received and showcased AM applications, technologies, and innovations while providing a platform for discussions on industry-relevant topics such as sustainability, cybersecurity, and investments. Content from the stage program will continue to be available on demand even after the event on Formnext streAM. Until the end of November, contacts made during the event can be followed up online and discussions continued.  

Next year, Formnext is scheduled to take place from 19 to 22 November 2024 in Frankfurt am Main.