WoodEx in June

Good to have exhibitions opening up to face to face again and welcome to WoodEX

COUNTDOWN: EXHIBITORS YOU HAVE LESS THAN 2 MONTHS LEFT

Exhibit sales are underway. Time and space are running out for South Africa and Africa’s most important woodworking, forestry and sawmilling event. The show runs over three days and provides an exclusive opportunity for manufacturers and distributors of woodworking machinery, tooling, software, cabinet hardware, lumber and board products, and more to connect with customers and investors.

INCREASE YOUR BOTTOM LINE

According to Stats SA (10 March 2022): Manufacturing production in South Africa advanced 2.9% year-on-year in January of 2022, following three consecutive months of declines and almost in line with market forecasts of a 2.85% rise. It was the strongest increase in factory activity since last June. […] the second-largest positive contribution came from the wood and wood products, paper, publishing and printing (6.8%) sector.

“The exhibition is an opportunity for Africa’s wood-based products manufacturers to access modern technologies. The show focuses on improving operational efficiencies and the bottom line,” says Stephan Jooste, the event organiser.

“In turn, WoodEx and Decking Expo present a valuable forum for sector suppliers to display and demonstrate their machines and services and grow their businesses.”

GOOD NEWS FOR OUR INTERNATIONAL EXHIBITORS AND VISITORS

The easing of local regulations on international travellers comes at the right time for international exhibitors and visitors.

From 23 March 2022, people entering South Africa only need to show proof of vaccination OR a negative PCR test not older than 72 hours. In addition, vaccinations are available for unvaccinated visitors entering the country who want to be vaccinated. Although it is still compulsory to wear a cloth mask indoors, there is no need to do so outdoors.

“It is excellent news,” exclaims Stephan Jooste, organiser of the Wood Ex for Africa and Decking Expo exhibitions in Johannesburg in June.

“Don’t forget to bring your proof of vaccination or a recent negative Covid test. While we need to maintain a social distance of one metre, we can fill up to 50% of the venue at Gallagher Estate. Visitors won’t have to waste much time waiting for entry to what promises to be a spectacular event,” he explains.

PERSON-TO-PERSON AT LAST

While the pandemic stymied in-person events around the globe for the past two years, it has not prevented the African wood products sector from growing. Nor has it stopped the development of new technology, supplies, and materials. WoodEX for Africa is an opportunity to meet business peers and rebuild relationships broken down by two years of isolation. It is time to meet, greet and share information person-to-person.

THE PLACE TO BE SEEN AND HEARD

WoodEX for Africa is co-located with the Decking & Flooring Expo and The Big 5 Construct Southern Africa, previously African Construction Expo from 7 – 9 June 2022, Gallagher Convention Centre will be THE gathering place for industry suppliers to showcase three years’ worth of new product introductions.