ACMA Automechanika New Delhi to be all-virtual B2B trade fair

Messe Frankfurt India and the Auto Component Manufacturers of India (ACMA) have announced that the fifth edition of ACMA Automechanika New Delhi has been moved to an all-virtual concept. Earlier announced as a hybrid or ‘phygital’ model, the shift to an all-virtual format in is view of the rising incidence of Covid-19 in New Delhi and elsewhere.

Focused on product showcases and sourcing interests, the organisers will host the industry at its virtual B2B matchmaking platform from April 22-23, 2021.

A joint statement issued today says, “In view of the latest developments of Covid-19 globally and its continued impact on restrictions imposed by regional governments, the large composition of Indian and overseas participants that come together at ACMA Automechanika New Delhi biannually are now presented with a focused and completely virtual platform for company presentations and product demonstrations. Emphasising the trade show principal of connecting buyers and sellers, the platform will automatically match potential suppliers when buyers launch product or service queries and set-up virtual appointments to continue trade conversations focused on the ‘sourcing interests’.

While the decision to reschedule the physical show in 2023 will offer safety and planning flexibility to both exhibitors and fair attendees, the need to strengthen connections and collaborations within the sector remains strong. Prioritising trade continuity and business connections, ACMA Automechanika’s dynamic digital model will accelerate networking, contact introductions, product sales, prospects for exposure and knowledge-exchange to drive business for the sector in 2021.”

Raj Manek, Executive Director & Board Member, Messe Frankfurt Asia Holdings, said: “With the constantly changing restrictions on travel both regionally and globally, we cannot escape the impact on planning certainty of our exhibitors. ACMA Automechanika New Delhi’s digital event days on April 22-23 will offer the industry an opportunity to get together at a digital location where they can engage in business dialogue and highlight sector innovations.”

Originally planned as a hybrid event, Messe Frankfurt India has been working on its digital offerings for exhibitors and attendees, and affirmed that the digital component continues to show a promising response making the move to virtual, a need-of-the-hour strategic step.

Vinnie Mehta, Director General – Automotive Component Manufacturers Association (ACMA) commented: “It is vital that the industry continues to engage and exchange and the shift to an all-virtual platform will open new touch-points for the industry in the present environment. The platform’s focus on product showcases of exhibitors and sourcing interests of the attendees makes it pure business-oriented and will highlight regional demand trends.”

AI-powered algorithms mean attendees get more personalised matchmaking recommendations based on their product interests, whereas the rich content, easy functionalities and access to business leads even after the show will help drive sales for exhibitors. Overall, the organisers aim to design programmes supporting business and industry development.

ACMA Automechanika New Delhi’s physical fair will return in February 2023.