Work Underway on GrindingHub Conference Halls

Planners are working on the layout of GrindingHub, a new international trade show for grinding technology and superfinishing to be held every two years, will premiere in Stuttgart May 17-20, 2022. The principal areas will be Technology/Processes, Productivity, Automation and Digitalization in Grinding Technology. Two joint “GrindingSolutionPark” booths are also planned — demonstrating how science and industry can work hand-in-hand together. The GrindingHub Web Sessions will begin in the run-up to the event this spring.

Over 260 companies had secured a place at GrindingHub as the registration phase drew to a close. The team behind the new trade fair is moving into the next phase of planning, allocating more than 14,500 net square meters (equivalent to around 30,000 gross square meters) of exhibition space.

“We are more than satisfied with the number of registrations and are delighted with how GrindingHub is already set to become the new focal point for grinding technology,” says Dr. Wilfried Schäfer, executive director of the VDW (German Machine Tool Builders’ Association). “Of course, we still want to give all those interested the opportunity to exhibit in Stuttgart in May 2022 and will therefore be staying in close touch with the companies.” 

The planners have started working on the layout of three halls at the Stuttgart Exhibition Center — including the Paul Horn Hall, which opened in 2018. The new stop for the U6 line is currently nearing completion close to the West Entrance, giving visitors access to public transportation; the airport is also within walking distance.

“With the airport right in front of the trade fair, the direct connection to Stuttgart's main train station and the close proximity of the A8 freeway, we expect the event to attract large numbers of international participants,” says Gunnar Mey, head of the industry department at Messe Stuttgart. The blended structure of the exhibition halls is designed to ensure an optimum mix of booths. The layout will be planned in liaison with the exhibitors in the coming weeks. The official hall plan showing the final layout is scheduled for release early in 2022.

Health and safety measures are top of mind, including plans to build the aisles at a width of four meters to allow necessary distancing. Messe Stuttgart has developed its “Safe Expo” hygiene concept in coordination with the authorities, which is designed to emphasize the importance of the safety, health and well-being of all participants at the event. Its effectiveness has already been demonstrated at initial trade shows this fall, including the Blechexpo and Schweisstec.