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Easyfairs has officially opened registration for AntwerpXL (AXL) 2024, set to take place at the Antwerp Expo in Belgium from October 8 to 10. This year’s event promises to be bigger and better, with over 80% of the exhibition space already booked and a strong return rate from last year’s attendees. This premier conference and exhibition is a pivotal event for the breakbulk, project cargo, heavy lift, and Ro-Ro sectors, offering exclusive networking and learning opportunities.
Last year’s AXL event drew over 3,800 members of the breakbulk community from 66 countries, providing a platform to showcase innovative technologies, tackle industry challenges, and build trusted relationships. This year, the event is set to enhance these opportunities, extending opening hours and adding a closing party to maximize networking potential.
Industry leaders like S&P Global, Rebel Group, and Hitachi Energy will headline the main deck conference stage, addressing crucial issues such as decarbonization, future fuels, market trends, and strategies for attracting new talent. These panels are essential for anyone looking to drive innovation and progress in their business.
In 2024, the event will place a special focus on the Ro-Ro market. Margaret Dunn, AXL’s portfolio director, highlights the importance of this focus: “With the industry facing challenges like port congestion, fire hazards from electric vehicles, and permitting issues, AXL is the perfect opportunity for the sector to come together and address these.” Car manufacturers and other vehicle producers will have ample time to discuss their environmental, geopolitical, and regulatory concerns, building crucial relationships with Ro-Ro carriers and ports worldwide.
A special highlight of the event is the drinks reception for the AXL 40 Under 40 campaign winners. This accolade celebrates young professionals who have shown exceptional potential or achieved remarkable success, marking them as the rising stars of the breakbulk and heavy lift industry. This celebration underscores AXL’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of industry innovators and leaders.
Another exciting feature of this year’s event is the 54th Business Run, a unique blend of running, networking, and charity. Participants can choose between a 4K or 9K run through the picturesque city of Antwerp, providing a healthy and engaging way to build connections.
Feedback from last year’s event has been overwhelmingly positive. The logistics manager from ArcelorMittal noted, “We met all the right people at the right time; it was great quality, and we will definitely be attending this year’s event.” Similarly, the logistics manager from Ferrum NV commented, “We enjoyed attending AXL and will definitely be coming back this year; it was a great networking event.”
As the breakbulk, project cargo, and heavy lift sectors continue to evolve, AntwerpXL 2024 stands out as a must-attend event. It offers unparalleled opportunities for learning, networking, and addressing the industry’s most pressing issues.
