Uniting the international engineering community

IN EARLY February, the world of manufacturing will once again converge at the highly anticipated Southern Manufacturing and Electronics Exhibition. The annual event promises to reach new heights as it welcomes an unprecedented number of companies from overseas. The organisers rightly observe that it further solidifies the show’s position as a global focal point for innovation in mechanical and electrical/electronic engineering, which are represented in about equal measure.

Since its relocation to the Farnborough International Exhibition and Conference Centre in 2008, the show has undergone a remarkable transformation. What began as a small, regional event in 1997 has blossomed into an internationally acclaimed gathering, attracting participants and visitors from far and wide. The 2024 expo is well on its way to being a sell-out, with many regular firms and new names taking the opportunity to sign up during the last exhibition.

Covering every aspect of engineering 

Hundreds of companies from across the UK will attract well in excess of 9,000 visitors if previous years are anything to go by. The comprehensive exhibitor list covers virtually every aspect of engineering, from mechanical, electrical, electronic, electromechanical, hydraulic and pneumatic components and assemblies, to PCB manufacture, box build, connectors, sensors, drives, rotary encoders and linear scales, and on to fasteners, pressings, wireforms, springs, mouldings, gaskets and more. 

There will be suppliers of machine tools and tooling, workholding systems, measurement and inspection equipment, finishing machines, laser cutting and marking equipment, 3D printers and consumables, production and planning aids, engineering and business software, controls, displays, HMIs and data acquisition systems. Other products and services on offer will encompass oil and coolant supply, workshop equipment, dust and fume extraction, humidity control, workplace storage systems, bespoke case and foam manufacture, plastic packaging, injection moulding, hand tools and adhesives.

The event is an excellent destination for sourcing subcontracting services. Leading practitioners will present examples of parts they have produced from all manner of metals and engineering plastics. Traditional subtractive machining companies will be joined by additive manufacturing specialists and inspection bureaux will offer metrology and quality control support. Further subcontract engineering services include electronics assembly, finishing, test and inspection, while providers of business consultancy and financial services will similarly be able to outline how they can assist manufacturers.

Tackling the STEM skills shortage 

Automation and digitalisation will feature strongly, driven by a skills shortage in Britain and across Europe. Manufacturing industry is facing other battles as well, such as recovering from the impacts of Brexit and supply chain disruptions, as well as higher energy costs and taxes. Not surprisingly, therefore, themes woven into the show will include reshoring of production and new technologies such as green energy and power-saving machinery. 

One of the exhibition’s distinctive features is its ability to attract both major manufacturers and small to medium-sized engineering enterprises. With an open access policy that discourages larger firms from monopolising the space, the event nurtures a lively atmosphere that encourages collaboration and discovery. This is reinforced by the absence of any demarcation between stands serving different industries and by Technology Trails that group exhibitors with expertise in specific areas to help guide people around the show.

Southern Manufacturing and Electronics 2024 will open its doors from 6-8 February and will co-locate with AutoAero, a specialist theme focusing on the aerospace and automotive sectors. Over the three days, visitors will have the opportunity to attend a free seminar programme comprising presentations that will give helpful insights into the technical, managerial and environmental challenges facing manufacturers today.

The venue offers ample car parking and is well served by road and public transport links. A complimentary bus service runs between Farnborough's Main and North Camp railway stations and the showground. Admission and parking are free as well. 

For more information: 

www.industrysouth.co.uk

Tel: 01784 880890