In addition to strengthening and expanding the areas of laboratory technology, process technology, biotechnology and pharmaceutical logistics, Ilmac is also addressing specific industry needs with a new digital platform. ChemieXtra is the main media partner of Ilmac

It’s no secret: Trade fairs are facing major structural challenges in many places. Ilmac, on the other hand, had a record number of participants in 2022. What do you attribute this success to?

Céline Futterknecht: I wasn’t surprised. I expected that people would want to get together again after the pandemic. Another reason is that the concept in Lausanne is incredibly compact, making it a highly efficient choice for exhibitors. The platform enables suppliers to have a simple stand presence with very little effort for the exhibitors themselves. A system stand of 9 square meters is all you need to get started. These kind of offers also appeal to new exhibitors and start-ups.

What is the difference between Ilmac in Basel and Ilmac in Lausanne?

Futterknecht: Ilmac Basel is much bigger and has a different concept to Ilmac in Lausanne. There are many more customised stands and larger exhibition spaces. While Basel boasts a wide range of offers, including large machinery and equipment, the trade fair in Lausanne focuses more on networking.

The event in Basel offers a vast array of products. What else can I expect as a visitor in Basel?

Futterknecht: In terms of content, the top-class Forum is becoming increasingly important. The number of participants has steadily increased over the past few years. International speakers attend the Forum to discuss the latest developments from the fields of science and research. We have a brand new start-up area with small stands especially aimed at younger companies. We also have another special show for maintenance topics. The “Ilmac job connect” area is ideal for companies to present job vacancies they may have as well as exciting career opportunities. Here, employers and prospective candidates, as well as working professionals, can gather non-binding information in personal discussions and make valuable contacts. The Pharma Logistics Days will take place over two days parallel to Ilmac, as in previous years, in the separate Hall 2.0. The special exhibit focuses on current topics, such as sustainability and security in the logistics industry, but also on innovations relating to packaging and transport.

Let’s say, I’m a chemist and I’m not quite sure whether I should attend the trade fair or not. Can you convince me?

Futterknecht: First of all: Ilmac has been around for 60 years. The community has known each other for a long time now and has set up a great network. People are able to catch up with old acquaintances, but also see new faces. It’s the perfect place to maintain existing contacts and meet new ones. And secondly: Ilmac addresses so many varying topics. Laboratory, process technology and biotechnology are the primary focal points of Ilmac. The Forum is just the place to exchange interesting information. We represent over 20 branches of industry at Ilmac. I’m sure there’s something interesting for everyone who visits.

Let’s take a look at the competition. The Achema trade fair successfully launched a new app in 2022. Do you also have an app for Ilmac 2023?

Futterknecht: We are continuously working on our digital strategy, which is geared 100% towards the needs of the industry. We are planning on launching a new digital platform this spring including an app, with interesting new features and content for Ilmac in Basel.

What do you think you’ll take with you to Basel from the wealth of experience you gained at Ilmac Lausanne?

Futterknecht: I have the utmost confidence in my strong and experienced team. After our smooth start with the successful launch of Ilmac in Lausanne, we now want to ensure that Ilmac in Basel is a success. Our goal is to bring the industry together again. That’s the most important thing.

Ilmac 2023 Trade Fair

The event will take place in Hall 1.0 and Hall 2.0 of Messe Basel. From Tuesday, 26 September to Thursday, 28 September 2023. The trade fair has been the foundation for the applications of the entire life sciences industry since 1959.

Interview in the trade journal ChemieXtra, Issue 1-2/2023 from 16/02/2023