A PLATFORM TO THRIVE

The resounding success of the first edition of Machine Tool Connect Expo in Kolhapur, known as MTX Connect Kolhapur 2023, held on October 8 and 9, 2023, at the Pavillion Hotel, underlined the need for manufacturing expos in tier II and III cities for the local manufacturers and buyers to stay attuned to the latest trends and technologies in the field and expand their horizons.

Organized by Indian Machine Tool Manufacturers’ Association (IMTMA), the inaugural edition of Machine Tool Connect Expo in Kolhapur, MTX Connect Kolhapur 2023, featured a significant presence of regional industries. The focused B2B exhibition was organized primarily for exhibitors from across the country to promote their brands and reach untapped markets in tier II and III cities and in and around Kolhapur.

MTX Connect Kolhapur 2023 proved to be an excellent opportunity for exhibitors to enhance product marketability, create awareness, acquire new customers, and meet channel partners. They could visit user industries through factory visits to gain an in-depth understanding of the demand for machine tools. They found the platform to be conducive for sharing knowledge and exchanging ideas through tech talks and workshops.

The right beginning

With over 1,300 registered visitors, nearly 900 attendees participated in the two-day B2B expo. The inauguration of MTX Connect Kolhapur 2023 was graced by RV Gumaste, Managing Director, Kirloskar Ferrous Industries Ltd; Nitin Deshpande, Chief Human Resources, Cooper Corporation, who was representing Farrokh N Cooper, Chairman & Managing Director, Cooper Corporation Pvt Ltd; and Rajendra S Rajamane, President,  IMTMA and Managing Director, Rajamane Industries Pvt Ltd.

Speaking at the inaugural ceremony, Rajamane noted, “The first edition of Machine Tool Connect in Kolhapur, designed to offer manufacturers from tier II and III cities a platform to widen their reach and gain an insight into the cutting-edge, kicked off today with a fantastic response. We are overwhelmed at the robust participation with 42 exhibitors present at the show. Additionally, associations in and around the Kolhapur region have extended their support. The event has garnered significant foot traffic, with visitors from places like Satara, Hubli, and Belgaum who are here to show their support and encouragement.”

He added that IMTMA’s goal of bringing advanced technologies closer to industries was successfully achieved through this show, making it an essential platform for MSMEs in the region.

The prominent industry associations, included Gokul Shirgaon Manufacturers Association, Kolhapur Engineering Association, Kolhapur Chamber of Commerce and Industries, Manufacturers Association of Kagal & Hatkanangale, Shiroli Manufacturers Association, Indian Institute of Foundrymen - Kolhapur Chapter, Shri Laxmi Industries Association, Ichalkaranji Engineering Association, and others.

Exhibitors’ experience

The 42 featured exhibitors from across the country presented their manufacturing solutions and established connections to boost their businesses. They showcased cutting-edge technologies in machine tools, digital manufacturing, laser technologies, tooling, and metrology, all of which are driving the manufacturing industry forward. Visitors from various engineering industries in Kolhapur, Karad, Jaisinghpura, Satara, and Belgaum regions attended the expo, representing sectors such as Agriculture Implements, Automobile and Auto Components, Construction, Die & Mold, Engineering Goods, Foundry, Railways, Textiles, and more.

Well-acquainted with the biennial event of IMTEX, which traditionally takes place in Bangalore, Ravindranath Gumaste, Managing Director, Kirloskar Ferrous Industries Ltd, was thrilled with IMTMA’s initiative of taking exhibitions to other cities also. “I am delighted to be a part of this expansion, and it's been met with enthusiasm by numerous participants. I extend my gratitude to IMTMA for introducing this positive change,” he added.

Nitin Deshpande, Chief Human Resources, Cooper Corporation Pvt Ltd, felt similarly privileged to be part of MTXConnect, “IMTMA’s initiative of holding exhibitions and connection programs in tier II and III cities is commendable. Their efforts are being highly appreciated, and we will continue to extend our support to them.”

During the event, IMTMA signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Centre of Excellence Kolhapur Foundry & Engineering Cluster to jointly organize conferences, seminars, training programs, and workshops aimed at enhancing the competitiveness of the Manufacturing industry in the Kolhapur region.

Poonam Pednekar Chief Copy Editor Magic Wand Media Inc poonam.pednekar@magicwandmedia.in

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