Full steam ahead to GP&T: the 2nd Glass Processing & Technology Exhibition at the NEC

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Widespread investment and the ‘glass only’ focus of the exhibition means many are excited about the second GP&T.

Exhibitors and visitors are excited about the second Glass Processing & Technology exhibition, which takes place at the NEC this month (17-19 May). The first show in November ‘03 was a neat bit of opportunism, taking advantage of a change in the Vitrum Milan date. But it pulled in a credible 3,788 visitors, and a good reception all round indicated that GP&T would be repeated.

GP&T is everything that Glassex isn’t, and this is part of the show’s appeal: it hasn’t seen the ups and downs of 25 successive editions and attempts to re-invent a tired format. Visitors and exhibitors also like GP&T’s tight focus – all exhibits are glass related, while Glassex can tend towards being a catch-all for various home improvement products, made relevant by the strength of the conservatory market.

There’s a strong argument for EMAP to run GP&T and Glassex together at the NEC, where some separation between the halls could keep the two shows distinct, but the majority seem happy for GP&T to be kept separate.

Seminar programme

The Glass Processing & Technology Technical Seminar Programme will deliver three full days of glass industry-focused presentations divided into distinctive themes: Legislation and Regulation; Part L and other Energy Efficiency issues; and Markets & Margins.

The Technical Seminar Programme, which has been organised in association with the Glass & Glazing Federation, covers a range of topics that are all current and high on the radar of UK glass professionals. The key target audience is glass producers, processors and merchants although those in the front line of specification will also benefit from many of the issues covered. Attendance alone of GP&T qualifies for Continuous Professional Development (CPD) points for those involved in the scheme.

In the opposite end of Hall 1, the GP&T Architects’ Forum will also run each day throughout the event, and is free of charge to genuine delegates. The Forum is sponsored by Pilkington Activ and qualifies under the RIBA CPD Scheme.

This year’s exhibitor list shows an excellent turnout of specialist glazing companies and machinery manufacturers, including a large number of glass tempering specialists.

With huge interest and investment in glass processing due to architectural trends and legislation such as Part L and EN1279, there’s no better time to have a show about glass. We’re confident it’ll be a good one.