Exhibiting at CeMAT
MHI member, Seegrid exhibited at CeMAT 2014 to broaden its network in the European arena and present new products, such as the Guided by Seegrid® P50 C tow tractor and GT45 tow tractor, to potential customers and distributors. Already recognized for innovation in automation of materials handling in the U.S., Seegrid saw MHI’s Pavilion at CeMAT as a valuable tool to increase its brand awareness in a new region.
How would you describe the quantity and quality of attendees and conversations with potential buyers?
Seegrid had a positive turnout at CeMAT, especially in the manufacturing sector. Attached is the visitor chart by segment. The highest percentage of Seegrid’s visitors (38%) were from the manufacturing sector, which is the industry most likely to use its European products. Seegrid was able to connect with quality influencers and decision makers to present the benefits of its vision-guided vehicles to the European market, and it was a good forum for conversations with manufacturers to initiate and advance discussions.
Did you use the MHI Pavilion services, amenities, support?
Hannover Fairs USA provided excellent pre-show support as an event organizer, as well as event support during the show, including the presentation forum. The MHI Pavilion was stationed at a good location for visitor traffic. Additionally, the Premium Lounge was a valuable asset for our executives to have face-to-face meetings.
Interaction with attendees (language barrier, business talks etc.):
There were some challenges with the language differences at the show for networking as it had worldwide attendees. However, visitors were often able to communicate using enough English or German for staff to understand what is was the visitor was looking to improve upon at their company. Some visitors simply were interested in the innovative technology, wanting to understand how the AGVs worked without infrastructure and the capabilities of Seegrid products. At times, those details were a bit more challenging to explain if English or German was not their first language.
MHI organizes pavilions each year at selected international trade fairs. For more information, contact Tom Carbott at 704-676-1190.
