On 31 May and 1 June 2017 Chemistry Today was at the Munich Trade Fair complex, for the 32nd edition of ChemSpec Europe. It was the only peer reviewed trade journal, with an impact factor, among 321 exhibitors from 24 countries, representing all branches of the fine and speciality chemical industry. The atmosphere was friendly and relaxed, busy but not overwhelming. In the end, most were happy. Schedules were filled with meetings and at the end of the two days, most exhibitors reported satisfaction. As a CEO told us, “The number of people coming is not so important. What is important is that I can have important meetings with important customers” – and in this respect ChemSpec 2017 seems to have performed flawlessly.
We talked with many exhibitors to feel the pulse of fine/speciality chemicals market and technology. Almost all companies, no matter if pharma CRAMs or industry providers of speciality chemicals, reported consistent market growth, expansion plans and optimistic expectations about the future. For fine chemicals, reports confirm pharma as the main market driving force. Safety-critical reactions are more and more important in expanding the range of products available to clients, and many companies specialized in this sector seem to do particularly well. The main markets seem to be still concentrated in the West, yet some companies have no fear expanding in untapped areas, such as Africa.
All in all it was two good days of networking, knowing each other and making good deals – ChemSpec 2017 was a definite success.
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