Must-visit for every professional in the wood industry

The five-day trade show Prowood 2024, held from Oct. 20 to 24 at Flanders Expo, Ghent, brought together the entire woodworking sector to explore the latest innovations, technologies and trends. With a mix of interactive demonstrations, networking opportunities and seminars, it was the perfect opportunity for companies and professionals to keep up-to-date with the rapidly changing market. As the premier meeting place for woodworking professionals, Prowood is known for its cutting-edge technology, digital solutions and synergy between companies in the industry.

One of the most striking aspects of Prowood is its strong focus on technology and automation. Jeroen Doom, managing director of Woodwize and vice chairman of Prowood's advisory board, underscored the importance of this fair to the industry: "The fair only takes place every three years. If you miss one edition, you're six years away from the latest innovations, so it's crucial for professionals to attend." Doom went on to talk about the trends that were visible at the fair: "Automation and robotization remain important themes. Companies are increasingly betting on AI and integration of software with machines. These are developments that we could clearly see during this edition."

Another important theme at the fair was sustainability, with a focus on ecology and biobased solutions. These elements were featured at several booths, presenting new production techniques and environmentally friendly materials. The fair clearly showed that the sector is not only focused on technological progress, but also on reducing its ecological footprint.

In addition to the technology demonstrations, Prowood 2024 acted as a crucial networking platform. The fair offered companies the opportunity not only to showcase their products, but also to build and strengthen valuable relationships. Philippe Rogiers, chairman of Prowood's advisory board and president of Rogiers, emphasized the value of this fair to the industry, "Prowood has an audience of professionals. It is a unique opportunity to explain our new technologies directly to them. The synergy between machine importers, suppliers and other companies makes this fair a valuable platform for innovation," Rogiers said.

This was further emphasized by the interaction on the show floor. Many exhibitors interacted with visitors - 16,707 in total (including 2,816 students) - and fellow companies, creating a strong bond between them. Networking was further stimulated by the well-received Nocturne on Oct. 22. Nearly 5,000 visitors attended this evening opening event, where the atmosphere was informal and energetic. Visitors were able to learn about the latest technologies in a more relaxed way, and the evening felt like "a celebration for the woodworking industry," according to Lieve Vermeulen of trade show organizer Claever Associates and organizers of this trade show.

One of the most discussed topics during Prowood 2024 was the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on the woodworking industry. Woodwize, a leader in training and safety within this sector, hosted a seminar that delved deeper into how AI can improve productivity and safety in the workplace. Jeroen Doom, managing director of Woodwize, emphasized, "AI is no longer a concept of the future; it is already being applied in the industry today." AI is increasingly being integrated into production lines and safety regulations, increasing efficiency and reducing the risk of errors or accidents. These developments are aimed not only at increasing output, but also at improving the working environment for employees, making AI an essential part of the future of wood processing.

The focus on AI dovetailed perfectly with the broader digitization trend highlighted at Prowood. Several exhibitors demonstrated how robotization and automation can transform daily operations in woodworking companies. From smart software that operates machines and monitors production processes to systems that predict maintenance needs, AI is proving to be a gamechanger for industry efficiency and sustainability.

"A celebration of the woodworking industry."

In addition, WOOD.BE, the knowledge center for the wood and furniture industry, played a prominent role during the fair with their event Inspired by WOOD. The event, which took place on Oct. 23, was all about circular building solutions with the theme "Build it circular!" WOOD.BE gave visitors insight into how companies within the wood sector are taking concrete steps toward circular innovation. Speakers covered diverse topics such as sustainable construction, the reuse of wood, and the impact of the new European regulation on deforestation-free products, the European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR).

WOOD.BE also offered access to their extensive materials library, materiO Belgium, where companies could find inspiration on innovative and sustainable materials. This showroom and online database were promoted as valuable tools for the development of circular wood products. The event concluded with a networking reception, which provided an opportunity for knowledge exchange among participants and further collaboration within the industry.

With this contribution, WOOD.BE was an essential player in promoting sustainability and circularity at Prowood 2024, inspiring both companies and professionals to actively contribute to a sustainable future for the wood industry.

One of the most popular spots on the trade show floor was the Wood Café. Centrally located at the fair, this café acted as a meeting place for professionals who wanted to exchange ideas or simply take a break with a drink. In addition to the informal atmosphere, the Wood Café also provided space for in-depth discussions on the future of the wood sector. Several experts participated in panel discussions here, covering topics such as sustainability and the application of new technologies in wood processing. The café gave professionals the opportunity not only to network, but also to gain valuable insights that can help them meet the challenges of the future.

In addition to established companies and professionals, the fair also featured young talent. The fair attracted not only experienced professionals, but also students who represent the future of the wood industry. Sam and Simon, two woodworking students, visited the fair to enrich their knowledge and orient themselves to their future careers. "We saw machines and technologies we had never seen before. It's inspiring for our future in the industry," Simon told us.

Prowood offers students and young professionals a unique opportunity to learn about the latest developments in the industry and to network with potential employers. This focus on the next generation of woodworkers is an important part of the fair's success, and contributes to the sustainable growth of the industry.

Looking back at Prowood 2024, we can say that the fair was not only a platform for technological innovation, but also a meeting place where companies, professionals and students came together to shape the future of the industry. With a focus on automation, robotization, sustainability and AI, the fair showed how the woodworking industry continues to evolve.

The adjustments the fair organizers made, such as the introduction of more interactive demos and the new format of the Nocturne, were very positively received. Anja Stuerbout, fair organizer Claever Associates, emphasized that listening to feedback from exhibitors and visitors was crucial to making the fair more attractive: "We adjusted the opening hours and created entry-level booths for smaller companies. This created a better balance on the show floor and more interaction between exhibitors and visitors."

The next edition of Prowood is scheduled for October 2027, and will undoubtedly once again be a platform for the latest innovations in the woodworking industry. For anyone active in this industry, it is an event to keep an eye on and certainly not to be missed.