A new venue for the Spanish machine tool exhibition BIEMH should boost exhibitor and attendee numbers, according to show organizers. They say moving to the new Bilbao Exhibition Center provides a larger stage for metalworking technology and makes it easier for attendees to get around the show.

Currently, more than 1,600 exhibitors are participating, up 17% from the 2002 BIEMH. Of this number, machine tools, machine tool accessories, and forming equipment account for 66% of booked space. The rest of the booths feature hydraulic, pneumatic, electrical, and electronic equipment; metrology and quality-control systems; handling and robotics systems; workshops and business services; CAD/CAM/CAE software; and welding and flame-cutting equipment. The show takes place June 7 to 12 in Bilbao, Spain. Its organizing committee includes representatives of AFM (the Spanish Association of Machine-Tool Manufacturers) and the Bilbao International Exhibition Center. More information on the show is at feriadebilbao.com

The 2004 BIEMH show will take place at the new Bilbao Exhibition Center, which has six halls featuring open floorplans, high load-bearing floors, and high-tech services.	A high level of international participation is a hallmark of the BIEMH show. The last event drew exhibitors from over 30 countries.