What’s the SCOOP – PRODUCTRONICA 2021

I’ve been at every productronica since my first trip to Muncih in the 1980s (yes, I am that old), but this year I’ll be enjoying Australia’s summer and not Bavaria’s winter. I will miss attending what I still consider the most important trade show in the industry, but mostly I’ll miss my friends and colleagues who gather and meet at such events. 

This is without doubt the most unpredictable productronica in decades. Some would say the show has been fortunate, having had its last edition prior to the pandemic in 2019, and having this edition as we are recovering and opening up for business. So, no cancellation, unlike its sister show electronica. The truth is the whole industry is wondering what to expect. Some exhibitors have chosen not to attend, others have scaled back their investment and some are fully committed. Many suggest it will have a strong domestic attendance and a weakened international crowd, but who knows…

The fact is the industry is in good shape and we’re seeing a solid recovery with investment in digital transformation, some reshoring thanks to supply chain challenges and real consolidation in the European EMS sector.

So, being the inquisitive type, I had to ask. Last week I started interviewing exhibitors to find out what they are expecting as well as what they are bringing to the show. I am five interviews in and plan to release a new interview every day right up to the show, so bookmark the playlist or subscribe to the podcast to keep bang up to date. Personally I prefer the podcast. I don’t have to look at those talking heads and I can listen while I am running, working out, or walking the dog. I’m all about multitasking!

Truth be told, this is as unpredictable as it gets. Check out what those invested in the show are expecting and what they will be promoting at the show. If I haven’t invited you to an interview and you’d like to do one, drop me a message on LinkedIn and I promise I’ll get back to you!