Interview with Prof. Dr. Christian Seidel

What are the planned improvements about, Professor Seidel?

Essentially, it's about dovetailing the congress and exhibition even better and intensifying the interaction between all players and visitors.

How do you intend to achieve this?

We are integrating the offers for gaining knowledge, exchanging ideas and networking even more specifically into the overall concept. For example, we are expanding the very successful “Technical Deep Dives Tours” at the exhibition stands in 2024, where suppliers and visitors can interact directly. We are reactivating the “Expert Tables” format. These discussions in small groups will also take place directly in the exhibition area. And at the end of the first day, we are inviting guests to the “AM Science Poster Slam” so that they can have a relaxed discussion with the scientists at the after-work party in the hall.

What is the content of rapid.tech 3D 2025?

At the trade congress, we are addressing topics that are of great importance in the current economic situation, such as AM applications for the defense sector, for electronics or for energy-intensive industries. The fact that VDMA Additive Manufacturing and DECHEMA are continuing the partnership with rapid.tech 3D that began in 2024 and that we have been able to gain a new partner in 3D MID e. V. shows that this is the right direction. The program will thus highlight the potential of industrial 3D printing for chemistry, process engineering, automation and robotics in an even more focused way. By presenting further economically worthwhile fields of application for the use of proven additive technologies alongside established industry solutions from the aerospace, medical and mobility sectors, we will also be able to break out of the “AM bubble” and attract new visitors.

In tough economic times, companies often cut back on marketing measures such as trade fair appearances and visits first. Against this background, how do you intend to attract new exhibitors and visitors?

With table-top stands, the Messe Erfurt team offers a very attractive all-inclusive entry-level package that allows you to be an exhibitor and visitor at the same time. Companies can present their products and services in the connecting corridor between the congress center and the exhibition hall without having to set up their own stand and without any further organizational stress - all for less than EUR 1,400.