For most of the year, a metal shop is all about trying to meet deadlines within four walls. Then trade show season rolls around, and before you know it there’s a good excuse to book a flight.
The really big metal trade shows are worth the airfare, but only if you’re prepared to put in the effort to make the most of it. So here are the top metal trade shows that are worth dragging yourself out of bed for.
The Three Must-visit Metal Trade Shows
FABTECH first – and for good reason. Its the North American behemoth of metal trade shows. You’ll be running on empty by lunchtime and still have half the floor to tackle.
If you can only make it to one trade show a year, this one’s the one to choose.
EuroBLECH in Hanover
Next up is EuroBLECH in Hanover, Germany, the sheet metal heavyweight.
You’ll find the latest machines on display and the European exhibitors usually have their gear up and running, not just some fancy poster.
Let us check wire & Tube in Dusseldorf. If your work involves tube, wire or anything that comes with it, then this is the show for you.
There are other big shows in China too, but that’s a whole different kind of trip.
One thing nobody ever tells first-timers about metal trade shows: the best deals are usually lurking in the back corners.
Not the flashy island booths, but the small tooling vendors huddled around a folding table – that’s where you’ll find the real bargains. And trust us, wear good shoes. Your feet will be screaming by 2pm.
