The organisers of the 16th International Show of Public Works, Construction and Mining Machinery (
José Antonio Vicente, director of Zaragoza Exhibition Centre, is an authority in trade show circles as well as chairing the Spanish trade show association (AFE) and he also has expertise in public works machinery.
He says that an economic recovery is now being discussed in many arenas, although the construction industry in Spain and across Europe does not have the same outlook.
“I think we have to be optimistic, yet realistic and proactive. An economic recovery is now being discussed in many arenas, but the building industry doesn't have the same outlook. In fact, the latest forecasts by
“However, it is also true that until then decline will be more gradual and not as sharp, although the numbers are still in the red.
“In all these years of crisis, a lot of firms have repositioned, down-sized and looked outside of Spain. Smopyc is a first-rate marketing tool and one of the mainstays for the industry's business purposes. Now more than ever firms need to participate in trade shows to reap the benefits.
“In 2011, in the thick of the crisis, 1,253 exhibitors took part and 89,000 visitors came. So we are hoping to repeat that at least.
“Euroconstruct for construction in Spain suggest no signs of movement until 2015. Vicente said that during these years of crisis, a lot of Spanish firms have repositioned, down-sized and looked outside of the country,” says Vicente.
In a message to Smopyc 2014 participants he says that the event will definitely have huge international repercussions and it will be an occasion to find all of the supply and demand in the sector and the best business platform in one place.
“It will be five days filled with opportunities: exhibitors will find new opportunities for business and business contacts and visitors will have privileged access to information on everything that is happening in the sector such as new products, techniques, equipment and offers.
“My advice is for participants to seize this opportunity to get the most out of their investment, pull out all the stops, compete and be ready to do business and some invaluable networking.”
Smopyc has also launched its Technological Innovation Awards, which will be decided by an internationally renowned jury.
This recognition is endorsed by the high level of its jury formed by top professionals and globally renowned figures, among whom are the Technical Secretary of the CECE (Committee for the European Construction Equipment Industry) or the Technical Director of FIEC (European Construction Industry Federation), and it is chaired by Ricardo Cortés, the Technical Director of SEOPAN (National Association of Construction Companies in Spain).
Each exhibiting firm can present one or several machines, equipment, components, auxiliary means or services that meet the following requirements but they must not have been commercialised before the last Smopyc (April 2011); they must be presented for the first time at Smopyc; they must provide a technological innovation that improves efficiency, quality, health and safety at work or environmental issues, and they must comply with all current legislation applicable to the innovation presented.
