PaintExpo 2022, Karlsruhe – return after a break and record interest
The eighth edition of PaintExpo, the world's largest trade fair for industrial coating technology, took place in Karlsruhe from 26-29 April 2022. It was a long-awaited event - after a four-year hiatus due to a pandemic, the industry was able to come together in full force again. Messe Karlsruhe became the place where manufacturers, suppliers and customers from all over the world discussed the future of industrial coatings.
Scale and international character
PaintExpo 2022 featured around 430 exhibitors from 27 countries, and nearly 9,200 visitors from all continents passed through the halls. Nearly half of the exhibiting companies came from abroad, and the visitor turnout showed just how much demand there is for coating technologies. The atmosphere was unique - after years long gap, all participants emphasised the joy of meeting face-to-face and being able to see cutting-edge solutions in person.
Key developments
At the trade fair, the topics of process efficiency, automation and the digitalisation of production resonated particularly strongly. The full spectrum of solutions was on display - from powder and wet applications, through drying and curing equipment to complex industrial lines. Sustainability, i.e. reducing energy and material consumption and reducing emissions, was also strongly emphasised.
Demonstrations, demonstrations and innovations
Many exhibitors prepared live presentations that attracted visitors to their stands. It was possible to see new generations of applicators, painting robots, rapid colour change systems or solutions to improve ergonomics. Visitors had the opportunity to compare competing technologies and speak directly with the specialists responsible for product development.
Summary and relevance to the industry
PaintExpo 2022 proved that, despite global challenges, the paint industry is growing rapidly and remains one of the pillars of modern manufacturing. The high attendance and positive mood of both exhibitors and visitors show that the need to invest in modern technologies is not waning. For many companies, participation in the fair was the start of new projects and collaborations, and the event itself strengthened its position as a key event in the industrial coatings industry.
