Hannover/Shanghai/Shenzhen. Deutsche Messe (based in Hannover, Germany) is acquiring a controlling interest in LaserFair Shenzhen via its group company Hannover Milano Fairs Shanghai, a Joint Ventrue with Fiera Milano SpA. LaserFair Shenzhen is a well-established trade show for laser technology that is held annually in Shenzhen, a city of some 12.5 million people in southern China. The move is part of Deutsche Messe's strategy of expanding its event portfolio in what is one of China's most important industrialized regions and will give the company's international customers access to one of Asia's most significant markets for laser systems. The next LaserFair Shenzhen will be held from 08 to 10 May 2019 at the Shenzhen Convention & Exhibition Center (SZCEC).

"China is the world's biggest market for industrial laser systems. We are delighted to have in our portfolio a dedicated show for this burgeoning technology in one of the world's most important growth markets," said Andreas Luttmann, Director Global Fairs at Deutsche Messe. "LaserFair Shenzhen showcases the full range of applications for laser systems in manufacturing, and the show's comprehensive conference program covers all the latest industry trends and innovations."

Exhibitors at the show have a wealth of opportunities to make new contacts, develop their business and network with Chinese companies, especially companies based in southern China. The bustling metropolis of Shenzhen in Guangdong Province is one of China's most important laser industry manufacturing centers, and the location of choice for companies such as DNE Laser, HSG Laser, Hymson Laser, Yueming Laser, MAX, JPT, and Han's Laser – China's leading laser equipment manufacturer. Thanks to its status as a special economic zone Shenzhen is also a major magnet for foreign direct investment.

LaserFair Shenzhen has been run since 2015 by Shenzhen XZQ Information Science and Technology Co. Ltd. with the support of the Guangdong Laser Industry Association and the Shenzhen Laser Intelligent Manufacturing Industry Association. Going forward, the trade fair will be run by Deutsche Messe's Chinese subsidiary, Hannover Milano Fairs Shanghai, in partnership with Shenzhen XZQ. Hannover Milano Fairs Shanghai (HMFS) is a joint venture between Deutsche Messe and the Italian trade fair operator Fiera Milano. "LaserFair Shenzhen's growth trajectory will continue under the new ownership structure. Together with our partners, we will further internationalize and sharpen the show's profile," Luttmann said. LaserFair Shenzhen 2019 is expected to occupy around 22,500 square meters (over 242,000 sq. ft.) of display space and attract some 250 exhibitors and 20,000 visitors.