Two factors helped the laser markets fight back from last year’s devastating pandemic, economic recession, as well as political and social unrest. First, investments in capital equipment incorporating lasers are rarely made or canceled on short notice. Second, China—the most significant market for lasers and laser systems—recovered from the pandemic very quickly. At least that’s the assertion Allen Nogee, President of Laser Markets Research, made during the 33rd annual Lasers & Photonics Marketplace Seminar.
If you missed Allen’s Seminar presentation, don’t worry—I trust this Summary Report will provide you with a sense of the Seminar and the information presented. And, if you’re interested in the most comprehensive laser market data available today, you can purchase the final Worldwide Market for Lasers: Market Review and Forecast 2021 report, which is now available from Laser Focus World Market Research. Like last year’s Seminar, the format this year blended a variety of presentations, interviews, and discussions. However, unlike the last 32 annual seminars, this year’s event was held virtually over two days for reasons I’m sure you all understand.
On day one, in addition to Allen Nogee, Chuck Mattera of II-VI Incorporated recorded a video response to questions about vertical integration, the Finisar acquisition, and future opportunities such as Industry 4.0. Then, Bo Gu of Bos Photonics discussed China’s changing laser markets. We also had Linda Smith of Ceres Technology Advisors discussing photonics amidst a global pandemic.
Day two kicked off with a lively keynote discussion with Coherent CEO Andy Mattes. Stephen G. Anderson followed with a SPIE industry update on global photonics trends, the outlook, and the impact of COVID-19. John Dexheimer of LightWave Advisors next discussed the photonics industry stock indices, and SPIE’s Jennifer Douris O’Bryan gave an update on international policies and trends. Finally, Bruce Carlson of SVP Publications, Science and Medicine Group and colleague Mike Tice discussed the biophotonics instrumentation markets and the impact of COVID-19.
The Lasers & Photonics Marketplace Seminar remains the leading event where you can network with colleagues as you hear about developments in our markets and consider the implications for your business. I hope to see you there next year.
