Dedicated event will cater for manufacturing and engineering professionals

However, while it may be true that there has never been a more exciting time to work in engineering and manufacturing, a missing cog in the engine has always been a focal point dedicated to the people working within them. Recognising this need, Eureka's parent company and leading B2B publisher Findlay Media has launched Manufacturing & Engineering North East – an event aimed exclusively at engineering and manufacturing professionals. The event will be held for the first time at Newcastle's Metro Radio Arena next year on 8-9th July. As well as promoting the proud heritage of the manufacturing industry within the region, the aim is to provide a platform for engineers and manufacturers to meet, learn and discuss ideas and meet future challenges. Professionals working in both sectors will be able to come together to showcase the North East's strengths and share their passion for growth. Ed Tranter, executive director of Findlay Media, commented: "Engineering and manufacturing are at the heart of the North East's economy. Over 10,000 manufacturing and design sites operate within 100 miles of Newcastle and, with inwards investment from larger manufacturers such as Nissan in Sunderland and Hitachi in County Durham, the heartbeat is stronger than ever. "With its huge industrial base, the North East is the perfect place to host the show. We are looking forward to creating an event for manufacturers and engineers that is focused on their needs and their needs alone." With keynotes from senior manufacturing and engineering professionals at leading brands across the aerospace, automotive, medical and defence sectors, the co-located Manufacturing & Engineering North East conference will provide delegates with compelling content spanning all areas of production, design and manufacturing management. In addition, high quality practical workshops will also take place on both days within the two theatres on the show floor. The practical, hands on workshops will be free to attend and will provide best practice learning and insight into the latest manufacturing and engineering techniques. Subjects to be covered will range from design software, control and automation, materials, fastening and joining, power systems and additive manufacturing. A number of leading trade bodies and institutions have already pledged their support the event including the Manufacturing Advisory Service (MAS), North East Local Enterprise Partnership, Gateshead and Newcastle Inward Investment and the Institution of Engineering Designers (IED). "The support we've received so far has been phenomenal," said Tranter. "It just proves that the time for an event dedicated solely to engineering and manufacturing disciplines has come of age." Chris Sumner, managing director of headline sponsor FANUC UK, said: "The North East is home to some of the world's leading manufacturers. FANUC already has an extensive customer base helping the region to maintain its manufacturing heritage. The range of FANUC products that are available to assist new customers to improve their manufacturing processes is immense and we want to take this opportunity to demonstrate these to benefit the entire region." Another exhibitor at the inaugural show will be plastics expert igus. The company's managing director Matthew Aldridge added: "The North East is a market of huge importance. Having successfully exhibited at previous Findlay Media events we have every confidence that Manufacturing & Engineering North East will deliver new business for igus." Colin Chapman, marketing manager for Henkel believes the appeal of the Show lies in its location, and the fact that it caters specifically to the needs of engineers and manufacturers: "We recognise that this is the perfect event for us to reach our target audience in this hugely important region." While the conference and workshops will be free to attend, space will be limited for each session and pre-registration will be required. To find out more about Manufacturing & Engineering North East or to register your interest, go to the website: www.menortheast.co.uk.