The year-end presented a golden opportunity for me to gauge the state of the electronics manufacturing industry as well as to look ahead to what the New Year will bring with a visit to Productronica 2009 in Munich, Germany. Cementing its position as the leading trade fair for electronics production, the show attracted over 1,000 exhibitors (1,150 was the figure quoted by show organizer Messe München International) covering 75,000 square meters in seven halls. Considering all the travel and logistical costs involved, it was quite a feat to gather all the global industry players to one location, especially
in these tough economic times. While many have commented that the show has shrunk in size over the years, it is still by far the largest electronics assembly trade show in the world. Trust me, I have been to many of them and during this exhibition, I believe I covered more miles than in all the other shows put together. Yes, visitor numbers have dropped compared with previous show figures and that is to be expected with the current recession. However, most exhibitors that I spoke to were satisfied with the overall effectiveness of the show and with the quality of visitors that came with projects on hand which they were ready to discuss. Market sentiment remained cautious but optimistic. Every company had a positive outlook and continued to find ways to improve operation efficiencies and product and service offerings. As they have done since the very beginning of the economic crisis, many also continue to look for new markets in order to minimize risk and improve margins. Diversifying into other markets is certainly not adverse to risks so the proactiveness of some companies to invest in new technologies to cover a wider range of industries is very admirable. Overall, the response from companies to the downturn is that they are not taking it lying down and will continue to fight their way through these tough times. Although there have been many positive signs of recovery, nobody can say for sure what 2010 will bring. If there are positives to be taken from the recession, it is that companies will take a longer term view to business plans and be better prepared for when the next crisis hits. From the words of a 30-year veteran of the electronics industry and CEO of a multinational high technology company whom I met at the fair, quote: "The crisis is a good opportunity to reflect on a company’s strategic direction and to look into how to create additional value for the customer. It is also a time for invention and innovation, as well as to look for the right synergistic partnerships.” Here’s to better times ahead. A very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all our readers! | 
