Made expo 2013: international visitors on the increase

The sixth MADE expo (Milan, 2-5 October) welcomed a total of 211,105 visitors, of whom 35,619 originated from foreign countries: an important result for the whole construction industry, for which the event is an important international landmark.

The event saw 1,432 Italian and international exhibitors presenting their cutting-edge, innovative technological products to a large cross-section of the trade. The International Business Lounge (IBL) space also proved a great success, giving companies the chance to make important contacts and take advantage of business opportunities, with over 1,000 meetings between market players from around the world.

The business networking opportunities were complemented by the extensive professional development programme, with over 200 special events, activities, workshops and conferences covering all the most important aspects of the construction industry. Topics included architectural and urban green solutions, with the presence of major international designers such as Peter Fink and Alexis Tricoire, new possibilities for sustainable concrete, Smart Cities and ideas for multi-storey wooden buildings.

Much space was dedicated to sustainability and energy efficiency, especially in sectors such as housing and systems integration, and there was also a focus on interior design and contract work, in addition to urban regeneration, land protection, infrastructure maintenance, building and site safety.

One of the best new features this year was MADE4CERAMICS - Ceramic Terra Culture, an exhibition area and workshop dedicated to the entire ceramics industry, showcasing leading solutions for the construction industry and interior design.

The next MADE expo will be in 2015: from now on, the event will be held every two years, and the next show will take place in the same year as another important international event, Expo 2015.