Dukane Corp., which supplies plastic welding equipment, is pulling out of NPE2009. But instead of issuing a news release, the company announced the decision with a YouTube video.
Appearing in the video, which also is posted on Dukane's Web site (www.dukcorp.com/us), is Chuck Clark, president of Dukane's Intelligent Assembly Solutions Division. Dukane was going to display its line of ultrasonic, vibration, hot-plate, spin and laser welders and heat-staking machinery at a 3,000-square-foot booth during NPE2009.
Clark explains that many customers have told Dukane their companies have eliminated spending on nonessential travel this year.
“The message we were receiving is clear: In 2009, most customers will only be spending money on items with a direct and immediate payback,” Clark said. “This also means that many of you will not be attending this year's NPE show. So we've asked ourselves, is exhibiting at NPE the best way to provide you superior service and value in 2009? We don't think so.”
Clark said Dukane will use the money it would have spent at NPE to develop new products. Dukane officials also will present a technical paper at the Society of Plastics Engineers' Antec conference, held in conjunction with NPE.
Clark invites attendees to NPE in Chicago to visit Dukane's factory in St. Charles, Ill.; the company will provide transportation. The company's Web site offers a link to an Internet site where visitors can sign up.