The only thing that could overcome the intense jetlag that overtakes me on trips to Europe is the intense excitement of glasstec. The world's biggest trade fair for the glass and glazing industry is held every two years in Dusseldorf, Germany and attracts the industry from around the world. It is the show's 20th anniversary.
In addition to final stand set-up, yesterday's events included the opening ceremonies as well a number of press conferences and meetings.
One of the nicest part of glasstec for me is getting to see a number of people with whom I have acquaintance around the world, including members of the world glazing press. It's always great to see colleagues who publish glass-related magazines from other parts of the world.
The number of exhibitors at glasstec is up this year compared to 2006. It seems to me that the number of U.S. visitors, as well as those from Asia, is down. (My colleague Charles Cumpston thinks the U.S. contingent is about the same in size so we will have to wait for the final numbers to see who is right.) While a reduction in U.S. attendance would be understandable, we think the increase in glass shows in Asia might be enabling attendees from that part of the world to stay closer to home.
U.S. visitors walking the massive trade show floors (that's right, plural, think GlassBuild times 5) included Bill O'Keeffe and his group from SAFTI as well as Cliff Monroe and his colleague from Arch who stopped by our booth the first day five minutes after the show opened. Doug Canfied of Casso-Solar is exhibiting in the North American pavillion, and said he had a good day yesterday.
The weather hasn't been too bad. Monday was a beautiful day and for the show's start yesterday it was normal Dusseldorf weather--a bit rainy and overcast. But it doesn't matter much since we are not outside any way.
If you are at glasstec, please stop by our stand in Hall 13 C73. Here's a video review of Day One. More later.
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