The Department for International Trade (DIT) is inviting medtech companies to join a Northern Powerhouse trade mission to Medica, the world’s largest medical technology and life sciences exhibition.
This mission is ideal for businesses in the medical sector wanting to showcase Northern expertise and innovation.
The trade mission will give businesses the opportunity to meet and connect with international buyers and establish valuable contacts.
5 things to expect from Compamed/Medica 2017
Joachim Schäfer, managing director of Messe Düsseldorf offered an early glimpse at Compamed 2017 back in August. Based on his statement, here’s five things we think you can expect from the show this year.
- Diagnosis at the point-of-care: Analytical procedures that reduce costs and avoid complicated laboratory diagnostics are on the rise. The equipment used in diagnostics and treatment must function reliably and automatically for the benefits to be fully exploited. Samples must be taken for analysis in precisely defined quantities and then processed and tested. Drugs must be adapted and dosed according to the individual disease patterns presented by each patient. Microfluidic systems play an important role in this.
- Wearables: It won’t come as a surprise to many to read that wearables – a market that is now earning billions worldwide – will have an even bigger presence at Compamed (and indeed, at Medica) in 2017. While the majority of the market share goes to consumer devices and fitness trackers, microcomputers for medical applications (i.e. for monitoring vital signs or implant function) are also developing at breakneck speed, says Schäfer. Be it wireless modules for sharing data, the most delicate sensors and servos, or powerful energy supplies that fit into the smallest spaces – all of this cutting edge will be on show at Compamed.
- Foam party! Materials are always a big theme at Compamed, and 2017 is no different, says Schäfer. In particular, innovations in foam technology are set to grab the spotlight. New varieties (based on polyurethane) are marking new milestones in wound care. They show a high capacity for fluid retention and fluid containment and are thus excellently suited for use in modern wound dressings. When dressings are changed, the foam can be removed from the wound easily and without causing pain.
- Get your coat on… and not just because Düsseldorf can be pretty chilly in November. When it comes to coatings, the experts know that even a few micrometers can effect significant change and improvement in the functional characteristics of a medical product. This is especially relevant to applications like catheters or stents. On the one hand, this depends on biocompatibility, but ensuring minimal friction is also important.
- Small stuff: The High-Tech Forum (Hall 8a) will focus on microsystem technology, nanotechnology and production technology and process control. Speakers will look at smart sensors, printed electronics, microfluidics and innovative laser and photonics applications. Meanwhile over at the Suppliers Forum, talks will look at digitalisation (mobile health, medical apps, medical industry 4.0), wearables, 3D printing and regulations.
At the exhibition, companies will be supported by a DIT life sciences sector specialist and have access to the following facilities:
- Private meeting rooms (pre-bookable)
- Access to British pavilion facilities including Internet, tea, coffee, cold drinks and light refreshments
- Meeting programme with international buyers and DIT sector specialists
- Medica visitor ticket included in the company contribution cost
- Daily transfers between the hotel and Messe Düsseldorf exhibition centre
Companies wishing to take part have the choice of two groups running on different dates (12 - 14 November 2017 or 14 - 16 November 2017)
Flights, accommodation as well as transfers between the airport, accommodation and exhibition centre are all included in the price of £621, payable upon registration. Eligible companies can apply for a £200 support grant.
