According to the Tim Webb, executive director of the UK kit manufacturers’ association, the hope is that this year’s 'British Pavilions' will act as an international springboard for many and, as result; they will be able to justify exhibiting in their own right at future events and be replaced by the next generation of UK manufacturers.

According to Webb: "We have 18 manufacturers with us this year, while there are other Picon members elsewhere at the show. Many of the companies that exhibited with us four years ago have their own stands this year, and of course that is what we want to see.

"These manufacturers want to grow their exports and coming out to shows with us can help achieve that before they head off alone."

He added that, for smaller manufacturers, as well as medium-sized manufacturers that only have a small print division, there are a number of advantages of attending alongside Picon.

"Basically all they have to do is turn up at the show," he said. "We take care of everything and we are very visual and we have facilities that would not be available if a company came alone, so it makes a lot of sense."

The 'pavilions' will occupy 800 square metres across three halls, including Picon-hosted business lounges.

Of the 18 exhibitors, 12 are full Picon members - Alphasonics, Compose System, Edale, Focus Label Machinery, Integration Technology, Magnesium Elektron, MGE Worldwide, Michael Martin Associates, RK Print Coat Instruments, Rollem Patent Products, TS Converting Equipment, and Ripware – and 6 non-members - Applied Laser Engineering, Autobox, Foiltone, Hydrair, Inotech Systems, and Omnitek.