Recap of FACHDENTAL Südwest 2023 in Stuttgart
There are a variety of events in the dental industry, but few are as anticipated and appreciated as FACHDENTAL Südwest. This event gathers industry-leading companies, experts and interested parties to discuss and present the current state of the art and the most promising trends for two days.
The role of trade shows in the dental industry
At a time when digitization and online platforms dominate, one might ask what significance physical trade fairs still have. The answer is clear: they are more important than ever. Trade fairs offer the opportunity to experience products up close, to have direct discussions with manufacturers and to exchange ideas with colleagues. It is this combination of direct interaction and a tangible product experience that makes trade fairs like FACHDENTAL Südwest so valuable. They are places for learning, inspiration and networking.
An event in a class of its own
FACHDENTAL Südwest took place in Stuttgart on October 13th and 14th. It was not only a meeting of experts and interested parties from the dental industry, but also an opportunity to explore the latest developments, products and services in the dental technical and dental medical sector.
Insights and overview
Over the years, the trade show has established itself as a relevant platform for dental professionals from southwestern Germany and beyond. Although Friday, a sunny autumn day, exhibition halls to bursting with visitors, the total attendance of over 3,000 trade visitors was quite impressive.
Additional insight: pain points and expectations
Despite the potential of the show, it was noticeable that there were no significant advances or innovations in the dental technology sector this time. This could be an indicator of the status quo in the sector or that innovations are being saved for future events. This fits into the general picture shared by many industry experts: T´the real breakthroughs and innovations are often saved for the larger trade shows, like IDS in Cologne.
Dental focus and industry insights
FACHDENTAL Südwest managed to focus on the dentistry sector this year. This may come as a surprise to some, as in previous years the dental technology sector was more strongly represented. Topics such as prophylaxis, advancing digitalization and modern practice equipment attracted the attention of the visitors. Intraoral scanners were the focus of interest for many dentists, which underscores the trend of steadily growing digitization in the industry.
Innovations and product announcements
Although IDS in Cologne is often considered the center for the biggest dental innovations, visitors in Stuttgart were surprised with a product announcement. A new material for 3D printing of polymer is set to hit the market in November 2023. This is still shrouded in a veil of secrecy, but expectations are high. The industry will be eagerly awaiting this innovation.
Sustainability comes into focus
The dental industry is becoming increasingly aware of the global sustainability movement. This became particularly clear at FACHDENTAL Südwest. The GREEN LAB lecture program dealt in depth with issues of sustainability and climate neutrality. The GREEN DENTAL AWARD, which was presented for the first time, is a sign of how seriously the industry takes the issue of sustainability. It is remarkable that dental practices which are particularly environmentally conscious are recognized in such a prominent way.
CONCLUSION
FACHDENTAL Südwest 2023 offered a rich mix of education, networking and trends. Despite some challenges, such as the lower number of visitors on Friday, the trade fair has confirmed itself as an indispensable meeting place for the dental industry in southwestern Germany. However, more scientifically oriented lectures were still requested by the fair visitors. Perhaps we can look forward to such presentations at the upcoming FACHDENTAL Südwest. It will be exciting to see what innovations and developments await us next year.