AMSTERDAM – The annual Metstrade show has always been a stage for innovation, market developments and networking. And its 35th edition (Nov. 15-17/RAI center) stays true with two new events: the Next Generation Propulsion Zone and the Foiling Technology Pavilion and Theater.
“We also recognize the importance of people, talent and entrepreneurship by launching the new Start-Up Pavilion,” Metstrade Director Niels Klarenbeek tells this newsletter. “Metstrade’s Young Professionals Club will have a Career Corner with professional advisors. We’ll also host the prestigious Mirabaud Yacht Racing Image Award competition for the first time.”
Metstrade is the world’s largest trade exhibition of marine equipment, materials and systems. This year, it expands to 11 halls. Croatia is a newcomer, and China returns after the Covid pandemic. The show will feature 28 national pavilions and pavilions for super yachts, marinas, construction materials and the new foiling technology pavilion. Organizers expect visitors from 116 countries.
Dominating the show is the energy transition. Sanlorenco CEO Massimo Perotti will deliver a show-opening ‘Breakfast Briefing,’ jointly organized by Metstrade and Icomia. He is expected to suggest how recreational boating can embrace carbon neutrality. The announcement of winners of the prestigious DAME Design Awards 2023 follows his presentation.
This is the second year entries will be subjected to a more rigorous review of sustainable design. Eight categories and judges will weigh how end users will likely interact with marine equipment. And how the industry’s focus is shifting to automation, alternative energy and propulsion.
All DAME nominees can be viewed in Hall 13. Innovations in electric and hybrid boats will be showcased in the Next Generation Propulsion Zone, along with alternative fuels, zero-emission solutions and other developments advancing next-generation propulsion. Events to watch:
FOILING TECHNOLOGY PAVILION is an event organized with The Foiling Organization, the experts behind Foiling Week and Foiling Awards.
STARTUPS will provide a platform for brand-new entrepreneurs with forward-thinking ideas looking for investors. The pavilion consists of 15 early-stage companies in Hall 13.
WOMEN IN THE MARITIME INDUSTRY. With a robust program focused on diversity, this year’s Women in the Marine Industry International panel event and networking breakfast is again scheduled for Thursday morning, Nov. 16. Organized by British Marine, Marine Industry News and Soundings Trade Only, the networking breakfast will explore opportunities and challenges for women working in the marine industry.
YOUNG PROFESSIONALS. Metstrade supports and encourages maritime professionals under 35 through the Young Professionals Club, where they meet other young marine industry talents. For 2023, young professionals will additionally benefit from the Metstrade Career Corner.
YACHT RACING FORUM is coming to Amsterdam in 2024, simultaneously with the Metstrade. “This new concept will increase participation in the Yacht Racing Forum and strengthen its role as the leading annual conference dedicated to sailing,” said Bernard Schopfer, the event organizer.
IBI METSTRADE BOAT BUILDER AWARDS for Business Achievement have a strong people and skills theme this year. People and Skills Development, Rising Star and Lifetime Achievement are among a record 11 award categories in 2023.
