One of new features of Intermat 2018 is the international construction ‘observatory,’ which is aimed at contributing to the construction projects of tomorrow. It will provide an analysis of major construction projects and strategic research in on 12 countries in the EMEA zone, including the France, UK and UAE. The market potential of these countries will be presented by analysing ongoing and planned construction projects such as airports, ports, roads, railways, engineering structures, mining and quarries, residential buildings and functional buildings.
Isabelle Alfano, director, Intermat, says: “There are great many construction projects in France and around the world that are diverse in nature and a source of creativity. We expect the ‘observatory’ to act as a springboard for major projects. Our intention is to establish strong relations with the market, in order to contextualise the equipment and machinery exhibited at the show, identify and publicise the major projects underway or planned in France and in certain high potential or developing areas of the world, and thereby build bridges between supply and demand,” says Alfano.
To make it easier for buyers and sellers to discover and connect with each other, Alfano says the 2018 show will offer new services and business development tools such as a free matchmaking service for exhibitors and visitors, a hosted buyer programme where top buyers with investment projects will be invited expenses-paid to the show and networking events organised during the exhibition.
“Intermat is the only construction trade show to offer access to French, Mediterranean and African markets, where a multitude of construction and investment projects are taking shape. With its strong position in the EMEA markets, the show has over the years become a networking platform for international construction companies. We have enhanced sector clarity to draw attention to areas of expertise through four hubs: Earthworks & Demolition; Roads, Minerals & Foundations; Buildings & Concrete Sector; and Lifting, Handling & Transportation. This new organisation aims to deliver a smoother visiting experience whilst highlighting the machinery, equipment, solutions and technologies in each specific domain,” says Alfano.
The show will also shine a spotlight on young firms working in the construction sector with a dedicated village, which will feature 14 select start-ups displaying solutions and products related to equipment rental platforms, site supervision applications, equipment management software and cobotic solutions. Furthermore, the 2018 Intermat Innovation Awards offered a stage for the display of innovation in the field of equipment, machinery and processes used in construction and materials production. The international competition highlighted several market trends such as digitalisation of tools, development of applications, BIM and robotics, proliferation of environmental solutions and the growing consideration for safety and risk prevention in processes.