After announcing in June that it will go ahead as an in-person event this November, the organizers of Formnext, the world’s largest additive manufacturing conference and expo, announced on Sept. 2 that it will now take place as a virtual-only event.

The change, as anyone might guess, is due to “the recent rise of the COVID-19 infection figures worldwide and the associated increase in travel restrictions,” said the organizers, Mesago Messe Frankfurt, in a statement.

Although you won’t be going to Frankfurt, Germany, this year, keep your calendar clear for Nov. 10 – 13 for Formnext Connect, the virtual version that promises to be much more than a Zoom conference. Organizers say attendees can log-in to a comprehensive, multimedia exhibitor and product presentation online site that will “offer you the entire world of additive manufacturing in one platform.”

The usual conference presentations, keynotes, showcases, challenges, and awards ceremonies will be livestreamed and there’s even a chance for live chat networking. Much of the content will be available for on demand viewing months after the event.

What’s the cost to attend? Mesago Messe Frankfurt hasn’t set a price yet, but stay tuned to this space for updates. Formnext Connect exhibitor packages are priced between approximately $5,000 to $11,000.

Source: Formnext 2020 press release