ILMAC 2010 – in the right place at the right time

Let’s start by looking back: At the Achema exhibition of May 2009 the attitude of exhibitors and visitors was surprisingly positive. The crisis being discussed so intensively at that time was scarcely in evidence; there was rather more of a spirit of optimism to be felt. We expect this positive mood to be further strengthened and it is our opinion that this is an excellent reason to be already planning an effective appearance at ILMAC.

You don’t have to be an incurable optimist to realise that the pharmaceutical industry around here is continuing to grow strongly. The growth of the greater Basel area as a site of industrial research and the establishment of new university branches and technical colleges show that this sector is comparatively recession-proof. That is to say, the extremely long lead times in the development of an active agent do not leave room for a middle- or long-term investment freeze, resulting in a freeze on research.

This means that planning to appear at ILMAC in times like these is far from anti-cyclical. On the contrary, it is the classical and right thing to do because an exhibition, and ILMAC in particular, remains the most efficient way of establishing valuable contacts and showcasing new products in a high-profile setting.