The editorial staff from Glass Magazine and Window + Door are talking to exhibitors about products, projects and what’s trending with the industry.
1. Companies debut new products, find new markets
Companies continue to debut new products. Elumatec debuted two new products at the show, including its SBZ118 CNC machine, and are planning to introduce more this year, says Angie Kerr, after sales manager. Graf Synergy is introducing its CNC welder to the North American market says Giacomo Zotta, director of operations, and the company just opened a new Canadian subsidiary in the past year.
2. Companies push the envelope on automation and robotics as labor dwindles
Challenges of labor remain the central drive to exhibitor products and services. Machinery suppliers say many customers are turning to automation and robotics to fill the gaps left by a lack of skilled workers. Pat Mooney Saws is exhibiting its fully programmable automatic saw, which is safer to use with less labor.
Bottero is continuing to offer AI solutions for not only individual machines, but for the entire factory, says a company rep.
Joe Gates, vice president of Adelio Lattuada, says he sees automation as a way to encourage young people, used to digital tools, into the industry.
3. Exhibitors showcased equipment and product solutions designed to help their customers face their top challenges
On the final day of GlassBuild, Glass Magazine and Window + Door editors checked out:
- Automation solutions to help companies navigate ongoing labor shortages
- Software to make everything from order entry to delivery quicker and easier
- High performance glasses and systems to help meet tougher thermal requirements.
Follow @GlassMag, @WindowDoorMag, @GlassBuild and @GlassNation for live updates from the show floor.