Advanced Design & Manufacturing Expo Returns to Montreal with Cutting-Edge Innovations
The highly anticipated Advanced Design & Manufacturing Expo (ADM) made its triumphant return to Montreal on November 13-14, taking over the Palais des Congrès with a plethora of groundbreaking technologies and innovations. This premier industry event converged six distinct shows under one roof, including Design & Manufacturing, Automation Technology, PACK EX, EXPOPLAST, Powder & Bulk Solids, and the newly introduced FabBatt, which shed light on the latest advancements in battery manufacturing and materials. These exhibitions collectively showcased the most revolutionary products and solutions transforming the manufacturing landscape across various sectors.
Quebec’s Only Industry-Wide Event Attracts Over 250 Suppliers
As the sole industry-wide event in Quebec, ADM Montreal welcomed an impressive lineup of over 250 suppliers, offering attendees an unparalleled opportunity to explore the latest emerging technologies and trends redefining the future of advanced manufacturing. The event also featured insightful panel discussions and presentations led by industry thought leaders, providing valuable perspectives on the most pressing challenges and opportunities facing the sector.
Keynote Address: Alain Berard Highlights the Crucial Role of Supply Chain in Manufacturing
The event commenced with a keynote address by Alain Berard, Director of Development and International Relations at the Port of Montreal, who emphasized the vital importance of the supply chain in supporting Quebec and Canada’s manufacturing future. Berard used a poignant analogy to illustrate the St. Lawrence Seaway’s significance to Canada’s manufacturing sector, likening it to the spinal cord that sustains the country’s manufacturing strength and economic vitality.
Berard Unveils Plans for Contrecœur Terminal Expansion
Berard also detailed the Montreal Port Authority’s ambitious plans to expand the Contrecœur Terminal, which will increase the facility’s container shipping capacity to 1.15 million TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent units) annually. The expansion project involves the construction of two berths, a container handling area, an intermodal marshalling yard connected to the main rail network, and a truck gate linked to the road system. Strategically located in an industrial zone near major transportation routes, the expanded terminal aims to enhance supply chain efficiency and drive regional economic growth.
Panel Discussions: Sustainability, Skills Development, and Supply Chain Resilience
Throughout the two-day event, attendees engaged in a series of thought-provoking presentations and panel discussions on topics such as sustainable practices in manufacturing, skills development in advanced manufacturing, and supply chain resilience. A notable session on sustainability featured industry experts and innovators who shared strategies for reducing the environmental impact of manufacturing processes, including the availability of government incentives and grants for clean technology investments.
Notable Panelists Share Insights on Sustainability and Skills Development
Martha Breithaupt from BDO Canada discussed a new refundable tax credit program from the Government of Canada, offering up to $93 billion in funding for sustainable tech businesses. Another panel discussion focused on skills development in advanced manufacturing, with panelists emphasizing the need for initiatives like upskilling, diversity, and experiential learning to address the growing skills gap in the industry.
Trade Show: Latest Advancements in Automation, Robotics, and Energy Efficiency
While attending panel discussions, participants also had the chance to visit the trade show floor, where exhibitors demonstrated the latest advancements in automation, robotics, energy efficiency, packaging, plastics, and more. Notable companies like Beckhoff, ABB, IFM, KUKA Robotics, SEW, BatteryTechnology, Smalley, and FANUC were among those represented, showcasing their cutting-edge products and solutions.
Networking Opportunities Abound
Networking opportunities were plentiful throughout the event, offering both exhibitors and attendees the chance to connect and collaborate. A welcome reception on Wednesday evening featured local appetizers and beverages, setting the stage for relaxed networking. On Thursday afternoon, Annex Business Media and Schneider Electric Canada co-hosted a booth crawl, where attendees enjoyed local beers while connecting with fellow industry professionals.
