First Robotics Asian Partner Seminar a huge success

In his opening address at the Asian Partner Seminar Anders Jonsson, Head of ABB’s global Robotics Division, reminded the large audience that ABB have been present in Asia for 101 years and that, together with our partners, we have a fantastic opportunity in the region.

The theme of the event focused on the end-user benefits of “Increased Productivity, Consistent Quality and Improved Health & Safety when using robot based technology”. Jonsson emphasised that by delivering these clear benefits the ABB global partner network can help and support manufacturers to increase profitability and competitiveness. He also committed to continue to invest heavily in R&D; to ensure ABB improves its existing offer and continues to bring exciting new technologies to market.

The seminar featured keynote speeches, success stories from partners and a series of technical workshop sessions alongside 400 square metres of exhibition space for products, global solutions and services from ABB Robotics.

Global Partner Program in Robotics
Anders Helgeson, manager for Robotics Global Partner Program, spoke of the importance of ABB’s structured “3 level” approach and the value and benefits that can be gained by system integrators and machine builders teaming up with ABB. “This is a true Win-Win opportunity” he told the audience “ABB already has over 2000 partners in the program - but we are looking for more, especially in Asia to ensure the growing demand for robot based solutions is meet.”

Technology is at our core
Amongst the exciting new technologies on display during the event were the first 2^nd generation robot picker - FlexPicker IRB360, additions to the Power Robot range., the new compact painting specialist IRB52 & the exciting new “next generation robot safety” – SafeMove.

In addition to helping partners interact with local & global ABB specialists, the event provided an opportunity for partners to network and for all participants to set up the collaborations that are so important in today’s fast-moving Asian marketplace.

“A quite fantastic event”
Commenting on the event, Sura R. Kittrakool, Managing Director of Thai partner Sing Sanguan & Sons Co. said “It’s quite fantastic. The partner success stories have provided me with good examples and new ideas about how to exploit the growing robotics market in Asia. I am very impressed. The event is much better than I was expecting”

Indian partner Mr S.C. Gupta from World Technology Products in New Delhi was equally excited by the event. “This is a very excellent program. I am highly impressed. I can’t wait to go home and share what I have learnt with my guys.”

Start of a new tradition
In his closing comments Tormod Gunleiksrud, Robotics Division Manager China, asked the participants to take 5 messages home with them:

• ABB has been in Asia for 100 years & we intend to be here for 100 years more
• The structured Global Partner Program is designed to create value for ABB and it partners in a Win-Win collaboration
• We have a comprehensive market offer including Robots, Application Equipment, Software, Global Solutions and Services
• Technology is at the core of all we do and we are committed to continual investment in R&D
• Together we can offer our end-users Increased Productivity, Consistent Quality and Improved Health & Safety

In his final comment he concluded that “Together ABB and its partner network have created a new tradition” and invited everyone to return for the 2^nd Asian Partner Seminar in 2009.”