METALFORM - March 25-28, 2007

More than 4,000 metalforming professionals descended on Rosemont, IL, to view the latest equipment and applications in the industry at METALFORM, North America's most focused stamping and fabricating exposition and conference. Held at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center from March 25-28, the trade show floor covered 92,000 net sq. ft. and was equipped with machinery and technology representing complete full-service operation-from design to post-production. Attendees were treated to live demonstrations of equipment, manufacturing software and actual parts production.

Showcasing more than 350 exhibitors, the exposition featured 148 companies with new products on display, many of which were being introduced to the industry for the first time. The show concluded with much positive feedback given to the show's sponsor, the Precision Metalforming Association (PMA). "We've enjoyed a tremendous show this year," exclaimed Lance Curtis from Link Systems, Nashville, TN. "It's been one of the best shows we've had in several years, with very good quality leads."

Other exhibitors echoed these sentiments, agreeing that decision-makers were among the attendees. "METALFORM shows have been tremendous for our business-this year's show especially," stated Jim Landowski, Komatsu America Industries, Wood Dale, IL. "The buying attitude has been phenomenal, with the quality of the leads the best I've seen in years. We're coming back again." More success stories come from Blow Press, Guelph, Ontario, and Leifeld USA Metal Spinning, Colorado Springs, CO-both companies sold equipment off the show floor.

Events held in conjunction with METALFORM also met with success. The Educational Conference welcomed more than 200 attendees for 21 presentations, and the Educational Foundation's Silent Auction raised more than $16,000. Proceeds from the auction will be used to fund grants to support industry workforce development efforts. Additionally, nearly 100 students walked the show floor on Student Day, which invites students and teachers to learn more about career opportunities available in the metalforming industry.

Other events included PMA's annual Awards of Excellence in Metalforming ceremony, and the first-ever Next Generation Leaders Day, which showcased the importance of the industry's future leaders. Activities for "NextGen'ers" focused on evaluating the latest technology on the show floor and meeting other up-and-coming leaders through networking activities.