The 2007 Fabtech International/AWS Welding Show, held in Chicago November 11-14, hosted a record number of attendees and received glowing reviews from laser system suppliers. ILS noted that nearly all of the industrial laser systems on exhibit sported "Sold" signs and feedback from the exhibitors was quite upbeat.
Generally, manufacturers reported that, although business may be down a bit, it is still considered good, and there is no sense of "softness" in the marketplace. To be sure, most acknowledge a bit of caution regarding 2008, but the outlook is still quite positive.
For a more detailed view of the industrial laser marketplace, look for the annual economic review and forecast in the January 2008 issue of Industrial Laser Solutions.