Upcoming supplier meetings I shall not miss in 2022.

I have seen the so-called "supplier meetings" multiplying in the last three years all over Mexico.

B2B-like events promise their participants the opportunity to connect with select anchor manufacturers. These anchor companies are typically a mix of OEM and tier manufacturers constantly searching for new suppliers. I have attended a number of these supplier meetings noting that some are very effective while others, not so much.

The last two years have been exciting as the latest supplier meetings also introduce buyers' opportunities.?

The demand from Canadian and US companies for Mexican goods is increasing due to two things combined: The mandate of a renewed trade agreement (USMCA) to meet regional content and the arrival of overseas manufacturers to Mexico. Most of them are Asian, seeking to preserve their North American clients.?

That is also a challenge to the Mexican manufacturer since the new buyers are demanding their suppliers to build their parts and components in tangible controlled processes, with modern technologies and ISO/QS/AS/TS certifications, among other requirements, which have taken these manufacturers by surprise. Other causes include the availability of engineered or advanced materials, including engineering polymers, composites, and steel alloys, among many others, that are unavailable in Mexico.

In promoting bilateral trade, selecting the right supplier meetings for my clients is crucial. That is why I choose well-organized events offering real sales opportunities, also attended by purchasing or engineering executives at the negotiation table. In light of that, I have selected these five supplier events I shall not miss in what remains of 2022:

Tooling Supplier Meetings

Monterrey, MX. August 24-26, 2022.?https://mbmapp.com/event/toolingsupplier22

Many reliable Mexican mold makers exist around the country, yet, Mexico-based manufacturers are still importing molds for plastics injection and aluminum castings, stamping dies and fixation tools, forging dies, and forging products. The event is open to US buyers and suppliers.

ENCLELAC

Monterrey, MX. September 7-9, 2022. Suppliers in the Appliance Manufacturing.?https://clelac.org.mx/enclelac/

Mexico is a significant exporter of refrigerators, washer machines, and air conditioners, and 40 percent of the sector's supply chain is in Nuevo Leon. Closed doors with China have caused more manufacturing of minor household appliances and, therefore, more supply opportunities for stampings, metal fabrications, wire forms, and extruded metals and plastics.

MFG Automation Summit

Monterrey, MX. September 21, 2022. Suppliers and buyers of automation, robotics, AI, VR, and intelligent factory solutions.?mfgautomationsummit.com

Modern manufacturing technologies are always on the buyers' radar. As factories and their process become more visual more opportunities for automation and robotics solutions will be available. This event will be an opportunity to learn the current needs of manufacturers to solve challenging process problems.

Congreso Minero Sonora

Hermosillo, MX. October 18-21, 2022. Suppliers in the mining industry, including equipment, machinery, materials, and services.?https://congresominerosonora.com/

According to the Mexican Mining Chamber, Sonora produces 34 percent of the national mining production; it also holds over 22 percent of all active mining projects. Connecting with key executives at the Mexican mines is very difficult. The Mining Congress in Sonora brings together the major mining companies in Mexico and receives 15,000 visitors from Mexico, Latin America, China, Canada, and the USA. Mexican and international suppliers take advantage of the participants attending the four days event. I recommend this event more for locating new distributors and representatives, although direct interviews with key executives are always possible.?

Expo Industrial Laguna - EEUU

Torreon, MX. October 28, 29, 30, 2022. Suppliers of industrial equipment, machinery, and tools. Manufacturers are casting their eyes on the La Laguna region of Mexico. La Laguna's industrial activity is in development, yet it is the country's first largest producer of auto parts in Mexico. The event hosts suppliers and buyers in automotive, agriculture, and mining, including commercial, education, and cultural.

What do you get when you join?

If you're asking, what can I get from my investment in these supplier meetings?

Once you register and pay the fees, your company has access to all the requirements posted by the buyers. You can bid for your preferred Company/Lead and wait for acceptance. When your request hits any Company/Lead, they assign a time slot for your meeting. Now you can meet your prospective client/buyer.

Prepare your sales pitch.

You do not need my advice on this, but remember, a sales meeting does not produce by solely handing in your catalogs. You must introduce your company as the best candidate to solve the prospect's problems or meet their preferences.

Make sure you know this before you pay.

The caveat of the supplier meetings is that there is no certainty on the number of OEMs or tier companies interested in your products or services; however, rest assured, you will never leave without leads.

Act Now!

Suppose you are a US-based manufacturer of the above-listed products and wish to connect with large buyers in Mexico, or you are looking for cost-effective alternative suppliers. In that case, the B2Bs are your quickest linkage to reputable and vetted buyers.

For more information, add me to your network or leave a comment.