PMTS: The Show Goes On!

Late last year, the organizers of the Precision Machining Technology Show (PMTS) faced a dilemma. With COVID-19 showing no signs of subsiding and there being no widespread vaccine availability as yet, should the show remain scheduled for April 2021 as planned (with the risk of cancellation) or be moved to later this year for a better chance of ensuring a safe, in-person event experience?

The hard decision was made to move the show to August, but now, that means it will be the first in-person trade show offered to the machining industry in 18 months.

“While moving the event from its traditional timeframe of April to August was not a decision that any of our association members took lightly, we believed that the second half of 2021 would show a trend toward a more normalized environment and lead to a very successful PMTS 2021,” says Cate Smith, executive director of the Precision Machined Products Association (PMPA), show presenter.

And now, the stage is set for PMTS 2021 to be held in Cleveland, Ohio’s Huntington Convention Center Aug. 10-12.

The goal remains to provide the industry with a quality live event, which is something the metalworking industry hasn’t been able to participate in since 2019. “We know that our exhibitors and attendees are excited to reconnect in person to share the knowledge transfer of new technologies and processes,” says Allison Miller, PMTS show manager. “We recognize that they are placing their trust in us to provide a safe and comfortable environment in which to cultivate relationships. Moving the show to August enables us to successfully do that.”

PMTS will come very close to resembling pre-COVID-19 trade shows we’ve all missed.

Perhaps the biggest questions on the minds of exhibitors and attendees alike in the months leading up to the show have been, “What will this show actually look like?” and “What safety protocols will be in place?”

Well, it looks like PMTS will come very close to resembling pre-COVID-19 trade shows we’ve all missed. On June 2, the Ohio Department of Health removed most COVID-19 health orders, including facial covering mandates, group capacity limits and social distancing restrictions. PMTS organizers will remain vigilant in safety and security measures while creating an atmosphere most beneficial for showcasing new technology and creating networking opportunities.

In fact, during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Huntington Convention Center team researched and implemented multiple protocols to provide a safe environment for guests, clients and convention attendees. These include improved air filtration, air purification systems, anti-microbial buttons, UV radiation, automatic touch-free doors, temperature scanning equipment and electrostatic sprayers.

On with The Show

This magazine issue offers snippets of new products and services that will be presented at the show from some of the more than 220 expected exhibitors.

That’s one way to start planning your visit. Another is to use the PMTS 2021 app available for iOS and Android devices beginning July 2. The app enables you to search exhibitors, floorplans and free show floor educational lineups; build your own personalized event agenda; connect with other attendees and set up appointments; and get the most up-to-date event information. Find the app by searching “PMTS 2021” in the iTunes or Google Play app stores.

Also, building in some random “strolling” time is helpful, as you never know what new product or technology you might encounter.

In addition, don’t forget about other show attractions such as:

• Tech Talks. These brief, interactive presentations held on the show floor are intimate and limited in size. They are led by industry experts and leading equipment suppliers and offer opportunities for deeper learning about specific products and technology.
• In-booth demos. Live demonstrations offered by a variety of machine tool builders in their booths are a hallmark of PMTS. The demonstrations enable attendees to see machines in action and ask questions of the presenter and other experts available.
• Parts Cleaning Conference. This co-located event enables you to learn about the latest in parts cleaning technology. Recently, cleaning has become more important than ever and environmental limitations are becoming stricter. This conference offers ideas to enable you to stay within cleanliness compliance.
• PMTS Scavenger Hunt with toolbox giveaway. Downloading the PMTS 2021 app also enables you to “play” the PMTS Scavenger Hunt. A list of provided clues will lead you to various spots throughout the show where you’ll find a unique code to enter to solve each clue. Those who find all codes will be entered to win the grand prize Gladiator 41” 15-drawer tool chest combo valued at $1,600.

Registration to attend PMTS 2021 for free remains open through July 10. Visit pmts.com to do that, and we hope we’ll see you in Cleveland!