Highlighting the importance of the launch, James Venerus, Product Marketing General Manager at Komatsu Europe, said: “At Komatsu, safety is always our number one priority and is non-negotiable. This collaboration with Safety Shield Global marks a clear step forward in delivering integrated solutions that enhance jobsite safety and give customers greater peace of mind.” The company stated that the system has undergone extensive testing in typical European operating environments and has demonstrated industry-leading detection accuracy. Performance testing covered a broad range of site conditions and ensured reliable detection across multiple colours commonly used in high-visibility and protective workwear.

The technology has been developed jointly with Safety Shield Global, whose software is specifically designed for environments where workers operate close to heavy equipment. By combining that software with Komatsu machine architecture, the system provides real-time identification of people located around the machine. Jonathan Guest, CEO of Safety Shield Global, commented: “This partnership with Komatsu marks a major milestone for Safety Shield Global. We are honoured to collaborate with such a respected global manufacturer.” He added: “Our mission has always been to eliminate deaths and serious injuries in environments where people work alongside heavy machinery. Komatsu shares those values, and we’re excited to deepen this partnership and grateful for their trust in our technology.”

The human detection system works alongside the existing KomVision camera system and on-board machine controllers. Operators receive immediate visual and audible notifications through a dedicated in-cab display and alert system whenever a person enters a predefined risk zone surrounding the excavator. Komatsu said factory installation ensures seamless integration, calibration and support while maintaining the quality standards expected from its equipment portfolio. According to Venerus, “Factory-fit is about delivering the same Komatsu standards of quality, assurance and reliability across every part of the machine. By integrating this system at the production stage, we ensure customers receive a solution they can trust – fully aligned with the performance and durability expected from Komatsu equipment.” The option is available on the PC170-11, PC210-11, PC240-11, PC290-11, PC360-11, HB365-3 and PC490-11 excavator models.

Located on a 214-acre site, the facility is expected to improve access to wallboard for contractors, developers and construction firms throughout Western Canada. Designed as one of the most technologically advanced and sustainable operations in USG’s global network, the plant is intended to enhance supply reliability for building projects while supporting the company’s long-term growth strategy. The Alberta Wallboard Plant also reflects a broader effort to strengthen the availability of essential building materials for housing and infrastructure development.

“As one of the most significant wallboard manufacturing investments in our company’s history, Wheatland represents a major milestone for our business and a significant commitment to the future of manufacturing and construction in North America,” said Chris Macey, President and CEO of USG Corporation. Steve Youngblut, President of CGC Inc., said: “We are proud to officially open our doors in Wheatland County and deepen our long-term commitment to Western Canada.” He added that the facility will help ensure builders have access to the materials required for homes and infrastructure projects while supporting long-term employment and economic growth in the region. Dr. Uwe Knotzer, General Partner, Knauf Group and chairman of USG, said the facility demonstrates the group’s commitment to advanced manufacturing and sustainable growth in North America.

The opening follows the project’s groundbreaking in 2024 and forms part of USG’s wider investment strategy aimed at supporting construction markets across Canada and the United States. Together with the revitalization of the Little Narrows gypsum quarry in Nova Scotia, USG, through CGC, is investing nearly CAD$325 million to strengthen material supply, expand production capacity and improve service across its network. The Alberta Wallboard Plant is expected to support future housing, commercial and infrastructure development in Western Canada, while the Little Narrows project will increase gypsum supply along the Eastern Seaboard.

Addressing attendees, Mr. Harshvardhan Neotia, Chairman, Ambuja Neotia Group, Chairman, CII Suresh Neotia Centre of Excellence for Leadership, said, “Climate change is one of the most critical challenges our generation is facing, and the hospitality sector has a significant responsibility in shaping a more sustainable future. Sustainability must become an integral part of how we design, build and operate hospitality assets. We need to place the planet first, followed by people and performance, while recognising that profits are a natural outcome of responsible business practices. By intelligently leveraging technology, embracing renewable energy sources, creating nature-integrated spaces, promoting biodiversity, adopting eco-friendly materials, and strengthening collaboration across stakeholders through platforms like IGBC Green Hospitality Summit, the industry can redefine guest experiences while reducing its environmental footprint. Resorts and hotels have immense potential to become living examples of sustainable development through green landscapes, organic cultivation, microclimate enhancement, and resource-efficient operations. If we focus on doing our duty towards the environment and society, the results will follow. Meaningful transformation will require collective commitment and sustained efforts from all stakeholders to lead the hospitality sector towards a greener and more resilient future.” Speaking on the sector’s evolution, Mr Sushil Mohta emphasized the growing importance of sustainability, operational efficiency and guest experience, noting that sustainability credentials are increasingly influencing traveller decisions and strengthening market preference for responsible hospitality.

Setting the direction for the event, Ar. Vivek Singh Rathore highlighted the rapid expansion of India’s hospitality sector and the need to align that growth with climate resilience and resource efficiency. He noted that the IGBC Green Hotels Rating System supports sustainability throughout the lifecycle of hospitality projects, from planning and design through construction and operations. The summit featured panel discussions on the convergence of design, experience and sustainability, as well as operational challenges linked to water and energy use in HVAC systems, kitchens and laundry facilities. Technical sessions examined decarbonization strategies, renewable energy integration, smart automation, water efficiency and sustainable materials. Through the IGBC Green Hospitality Summit, industry experts shared case studies and implementation approaches aimed at reducing emissions and improving ESG performance across hospitality assets.

The event concluded with the “Walking the Talks” Awards, recognizing organizations that have demonstrated leadership in green building practices and sustainable hospitality. Thirteen hotels received recognition for adopting IGBC green building concepts, including Lemon Tree Hotels Limited, Apeejay Surrendra Park Hotels Limited, The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts, InterGlobe Hotels Pvt Ltd./ IBIS Portfolio, Kolkata Hotels Ltd. – Holiday Inn Express Kolkata Airport and Pravat Hospitality Pvt Ltd. The awards acknowledged efforts to reduce environmental impact while enhancing guest experience through sustainable infrastructure and operations.

This pioneering approach moves from theory-only testing to a real world demonstration of proficiency, with learners applying their knowledge across three key stages:

• Preparation and planning
• Process
• Reporting and justification.

These stages are assessed against equipment in known conditions of repair, with learners demonstrating their true proficiency by passing each stage to achieve the relevant LEEA diploma. The same pass criteria applies across both MCQ and Practical Test routes, ensuring consistency in standards, quality and reliability. Practical Test days are scheduled to give flexibility around when assessment takes place.

Matt Barber, LEEA Director of Membership, commented: “Having listened to our members, we have designed our new Proficiency Testing for those who prefer to demonstrate their skills through hands-on inspection. Not all learners feel at ease with online multiple choice assessments, yet for years this has been the standard – a single format and a single measure, but is that enough in an industry built on real world skill? LEEA’s new Proficiency Testing is a shift in mindset to a learner-centred, inclusive approach to qualification. It challenges industry standards and embraces initiative to create fair and reliable outcomes.”

He added: “Rather than replacing the existing route the multiple-choice assessment remains available. So this creates choice and provides an inclusive route to qualification by supporting different styles and removing unnecessary barriers.”

For more information and to secure your spot, visit leeaint.com/courses.

DOMOTEX asia/CHINAFLOOR 2026 concluded successfully in Shanghai from 27–29 May, reaffirming its position as the largest and most influential dedicated flooring event on the global stage. Despite persistent economic and trade headwinds, the exhibition once again demonstrated the resilience of the global carpet and flooring industry, attracting 83,887 visitors and creating valuable business opportunities for industry professionals worldwide.

International attendance exceeded expectations, reaching a record of 18,302 visitors from 146 countries, up from 124 ones represented in 2025. In addition to strong participation from key regional markets from Far East (South Korea and Japan), Southeast Asia, and Oceania, buyers from Europe and North America continued their attendance in significant numbers. In particular, countries such as Canada, Germany, Spain, and Poland recorded visitation growth, alongside emerging markets from Belt and Road region and South America, reflecting the strengthening trade and business ties between these regions and China.

This strong international participation underscores China’s continued appeal as a leading global sourcing destination, supported by resilient supply chains and a stable business environment. The scale of the event, combined with its record international reach, further reinforces DOMOTEX asia/CHINAFLOOR’s position as a crucial global meeting place for the flooring industry

The event will return at the Shanghai National Exhibition and Convention Centre (NECC) again from May 26 to 28, 2027.

Looking ahead, as announced earlier this year, the DOMOTEX brand will expand its presence with the launch of DOMOTEX Southeast Asia, taking place from 11–13 November 2026 at the Bangkok International Trade & Exhibition Centre (BITEC). Complementing the annual DOMOTEX asia/CHINAFLOOR exhibition in Shanghai, the new event will strengthen the brand’s reach across Southeast Asia and create new opportunities for business growth in the region. Co-located with R+T South East Asia, the inaugural platform is expected to span 10,000 sqm and host over 150 exhibitors.

A SHOWCASE OF THE FULL FLOORING SPECTRUM

Covering 210,000 sqm across seven halls, the exhibition brought together around 1,500 carpet and flooring companies and brands from around the world. Exhibitors presented the latest advancements in technology, design, and sustainable solutions, reinforcing the event’s role as the largest platform for industry trends and innovation. Across the three-day show, manufacturers highlighted their adaptability in a challenging market environment, responding to shifting global demand with forward-looking and competitive product offerings.

Among new comers this year was also the pavilion organized by Coir Board of India. Mr. Shaubhik Bhardwaj, Section Officer (Coir) of Ministry of MSME in India stated: “This was the first time our Board organized a pavilion at DOMOTEX asia, and we met strong interest from our members to participate in this new opportunity to expand their business in China and the broader Far East region. China remains an important market for our members, and participation in leading industry platforms such as DOMOTEX asia provides unique opportunities to connect with buyers from across Asia. The exhibition met our expectations in terms of visitor quality, business opportunities, and market exposure.”

Brands such as Arte Mundi, Artist, Almas Carpet, Card-Monroe, CFL, Craft Flooring (Ter Hurne), Daejin, Dajulong, Freudenberg, Haima, Jey Key Rugs, Kaili, KDF, KTE, Kingdom, Paulig, Power Dekor, Ruixin Carpet, Standard Carpets, Uny Group, Xingyue Carpet, Mahesh Carpet to name a few have already rebooked their participation at the 2027 edition.

EXPANDED OUTREACH AND BUYER ENGAGEMENT

This year, a record 250 selected international buyers representing 34 countries joined the Buyer Club program for participating in targeted matching events and enjoying exclusive hospitality benefits. Selected in partnership with regional industry associations and media partners, the buyers engaged in over 650 business meetings with more than 100 exhibitors.

Phil Buckely, CEO of Australasian Timber Flooring Association, organizer of the buyer delegation from Australia, said “DOMOTEX asia/CHINAFLOOR was such a well-run and well attended expo. The variety and quality of exhibitors were first class, with so many business opportunities for our Australian and New Zealand buyers to explore. We are really excited to see what Domotex Southeast Asia in Bangkok can deliver in November.”.

On the Chinese visitor side, in addition to traditional trade audiences, the exhibition strengthened its cross-industry outreach, by welcoming professional delegations from sectors including e-commerce, construction and engineering, architecture and design, application industries, healthcare, and senior livAing. Over 400 hosted Chinese buyers were brought to the event through 17 local associations such as Shanghai Yilian Building Materials Market, Suzhou Zhejiang Chamber of Commerce, Shanghai JiaShiJia, and other industry partners and associations. The program also engaged industry influencers brought together by the leading social media platform-RED NOTE.

Next year, DOMOTEX asia/CHINAFLOOR will continue its commitment to serving as a premier international hub for the global flooring industry, fostering business growth, encouraging innovation, and addressing the key challenges and opportunities shaping the sector’s future.

The 8th International Construction & Survey Productivity Improvement Expo (CSPI 2026) will be held from June 17 to 20, 2026 at Makuhari Messe in Chiba, Japan.

CSPI is one of Japan’s largest and Asia’s leading exhibitions focused on construction productivity, featuring construction machinery, surveying equipment, ICT construction technologies, drones, 3D measurement, and digital construction solutions.

Leading manufacturers and solution providers from Japan and around the world will gather to showcase next-generation technologies.

Japan is one of the world’s largest construction markets. In response to labor shortages and an aging workforce, the country is accelerating the adoption of construction DX, automation, robotics, AI, and remote operation technologies.

Under the government’s i-Construction initiative, digital transformation in construction is
advancing rapidly, attracting global attention.

CSPI will present these innovations in one place, offering a comprehensive view of the future of construction.

Featured Companies and Exhibits

Komatsu

Exhibits: Smart Construction Platform / Autonomous Construction Equipment

Komatsu will showcase its Smart Construction platform, integrating machinery, data, and site management. ICT-enabled equipment and automation technologies will also be presented.

Hitachi Construction Machinery

Exhibits: ZX Series Hydraulic Excavators / Digital Construction Solutions
Hitachi Construction Machinery will exhibit its globally recognized ZX series excavators along with digital solutions including remote operation and data-driven construction management.

Yanmar

Exhibits: Compact Excavators / Smart Construction Solutions
Yanmar will present compact construction machinery and solutions designed for urban and infrastructure projects, focusing on efficiency and ease of operation.

Topcon

Exhibits: 3D Machine Control Systems / GNSS Positioning Technology
Topcon will showcase GNSS positioning systems, 3D machine control, and surveying technologies that support ICT construction and productivity improvement.

Amuse Oneself

Exhibits: TDOT GREEN LITE / GLOW2
Amuse Oneself designs and manufactures industrial drones in Japan and develops safety and visibility solutions for construction sites, contributing to safer working environments.

Exhibition Overview

Event: The 8th International Construction & Survey Productivity Improvement Expo (CSPI 2026)

Dates: June 17–20, 2026

Venue: Makuhari Messe, Chiba, Japan

Exhibition Space: Approx. 60,000 sqm

Number of Exhibitors: Approx. 606 companies

Number of Visitors: Approx. 55,000 (B2B)

Organizer: CSPI Organizing Committee

Official Website

International media representatives are welcome to attend. Interviews with organizers, seminar speakers, and exhibiting companies can be arranged upon request. You will have the opportunity to directly explore Japan’s latest smart construction technologies and digital transformation initiatives in the construction sector.

As Asia strengthens its position at the center of global manufacturing, design, and consumption trends, DOMOTEX asia/CHINAFLOOR 2026 comes at a pivotal moment for the industry. Amid shifting trade flows, rising sustainability expectations, and rapid technological change, the show will offer a focused platform for companies seeking partnerships, market insights, and growth opportunities across mature and emerging markets.

“In today’s environment, where global supply chains are being reshaped and demand patterns are evolving rapidly, the need for a trusted international platform is stronger than ever.” said Edwin Tan, CEO of GLOBUS Events, co-organizer of the show. “DOMOTEX asia/CHINAFLOOR continues to serve as a meeting point where industry players can explore opportunities, build resilient partnerships, and better understand market direction.”

In 2025, the show welcomed 83,056 visitors from 124 countries – the highest number of participating nations since the event’s inception. International attendance continued its strong growth trajectory, reaching 18,121 overseas visitors. The visitor pre-registration figures to date show a similar trend for this year, reinforcing DOMOTEX asia’s expanding global footprint, as well as China’s and Asia’s enduring role as hubs for flooring innovation and sourcing.

A global platform of leading brands and innovation

Leading Chinese and international brands continue to place their trust in the event. More than 1,500 exhibitors will showcase their latest products and technologies across 210,000 square meters and seven halls. The carpet sector – at the core of DOMOTEX asia/CHINAFLOOR – will occupy two dedicated halls. Hard flooring, the largest segment, will span four halls, while FLOORTECH Asia will showcase advanced production technologies in a dedicated hall, highlighting innovations across the entire flooring value chain, from materials and design to machinery and application.

The full exhibitor list is available at: https://online.dacf.cn/en/showroom-2026

Growing international visitation and curated buyer programs

International participation remains a defining feature of the show. Each year, the event attracts a growing number of visitors from East Asia, Southeast Asia, Oceania, Europe, South America, and emerging markets worldwide, reflecting the increasingly interconnected nature of the global flooring supply chain.

The 2026 edition is expected to further strengthen this international reach through curated buyer programs and delegation activities designed to connect decision-makers more efficiently with relevant suppliers and solutions. A key highlight will be the participation of nearly 250 selected buyers in the show’s Buyer Club hosted buyer program, including individually selected buyers and delegation groups organized in partnership with industry associations and media such as the Australasian Timber Flooring Association (ATFA), Italy’s Federparquet, the Malaysian Interior Industry Partners Association (MIIPA), and others. These curated groups will take part in guided tours, matchmaking programs, and targeted business meetings aimed at fostering meaningful connections and accelerating commercial opportunities across the industry.

An educational and information exchange platform

DOMOTEX asia/CHINAFLOOR is focused also on being a reference point for education, information, and knowledge exchange within the flooring industry in Asia. As part of the broader Build Asia ecosystem, it will feature a dynamic program of forums, exhibitions, and knowledge-sharing events spanning architecture, interior design, construction, and materials innovation.

Asia Flooring Talks

This half-day, English-language workshop will take place on the second day of the show, offering insights into the latest statistics, trends, and consumer preferences across Asia’s largest flooring markets. Through presentations and panel discussions, 15 international industry experts, representing leading flooring companies, associations, and media will share perspectives on regional Asian market developments, manufacturing innovation, interior design trends, and other key industry topics.

Sense-It! Design and Sensory Economy Summit – by cadex

For years, cadex has served as a premier platform within DOMOTEX asia/CHINAFLOOR, fostering cross-industry collaboration for the contract, design, and architecture community. This year’s summit, “Sense It! Design and Sensory Economy,” will take place on the opening day of the show, bringing together Chinese and international experts in architecture and interior design to explore how sensory economy principles can be integrated into design, supported by real-world case studies and success stories.

Carpet Island by Red Note

Red Note Carpet Inspiration Island, targeting carpet brands, home designers, distributors and industry influencers, will provide an in-depth analysis of Red Note’s curator operation system and viral content strategies for carpet influencers. The initiative will establish a comprehensive pathway integrating trend forecasting, content creation, curator-led distribution and closed-loop transactions.

Hospital Construction & Industry Integration Forum

In response to the implementation of the Healthy China strategy and the need for stronger integration across medical care, elderly care, and construction sectors, this forum will bring together stakeholders from government, industry, academia, research, and application sectors. It aims to establish an efficient cross-disciplinary collaboration platform, address the core needs of integrated medical and elderly care development, and support the high-quality growth of the industry.

The full list of events taking place during DOMOTEX asia/CHINAFLOOR 2026 can be found at https://www.domotexasiachinafloor.com/events/

The PC220 is described by the manufacturer as its most technologically advanced crawler excavator to date, developed to improve operational performance, operator comfort and workplace safety. To support the rollout, Komatsu UK has introduced additional manufacturing technologies at the Newcastle site, including precision scanning systems in fabrication and laser-guided assembly processes. Employees have also undergone training in digital manufacturing tools as machinery production becomes increasingly software-led. According to the company, producing the machine in the UK is expected to help shorten supply lead times while also reducing transport-related CO₂ emissions linked to long-distance delivery.

Paul Dickinson, Crawler Excavator Product Manager at Komatsu Europe, said: “This milestone demonstrates Komatsu’s ongoing confidence in the North East and the capabilities of our people. Producing our most advanced machine here highlights the quality, expertise and commitment that exists within our UK workforce.

“At Komatsu UK, our customers and distributors value the advantages of local European production. By manufacturing closer to our markets, we not only shorten supply lead times but also significantly reduce product mileage and associated CO₂ emissions. Our UK facility amplifies Komatsu’s unwavering commitment to quality and reliability, while reinforcing our core principle of creating value together with our customers.”

The latest phase of Excavator Production also follows Komatsu’s recent decision to transfer its UK distribution operations from Marubeni-Komatsu Ltd. to McHale Plant Sales Ltd., further reflecting the manufacturer’s ongoing operational changes and long-term investment strategy in the UK market.

Within this context, the China (Guangzhou) International Building Decoration Fair (CBD Guangzhou) continues to strengthen its role as a global platform for sourcing, innovation, and business development, offering a unique gateway into China’s advanced manufacturing ecosystem.

A One-Stop Platform for the Entire Industry Chain

Founded in 1999 and organized by the China Foreign Trade Centre Group (CFTC), CBD Guangzhou is held annually in July at the Pazhou Complex in Guangzhou, sharing the same institutional and infrastructural ecosystem as the Canton Fair. Spanning over 300,000 square meters, the exhibition brings together more than 2,000 leading Chinese manufacturers, covering the entire building decoration supply chain — from materials and components to finished solutions and advanced production technologies.

For international professionals, CBD represents a one-stop sourcing platform, providing direct access to scalable suppliers, competitive solutions, and integrated project capabilities.

Accelerating International Growth

The 2025 edition confirmed CBD Guangzhou’s growing global relevance, with:

• 2,000 exhibitors
• 205,621 professional visitors
• 8,602 international buyers from 145 countries and regions

International attendance increased by 47.22% year-on-year, highlighting the fair’s

rapid evolution into a key international business hub.

For developers, contractors, and distributors — particularly in high-growth regions such as the Middle East — this trend reflects a growing demand for export-ready, high-quality solutions from China’s manufacturing sector.

CBD Guangzhou 2026: A Structured and Integrated Vision

The 2026 edition will further enhance its strategic positioning through a clear layout based on three core ecosystems:

• INTERIOR – Interior design, finishes, and integrated living solutions
• EXTERIOR – Building envelope systems, including doors, windows, and façades
• MATECH – Materials, hardware, coatings, and advanced machinery

This structure reflects the industry’s shift toward integrated, technology-driven solutions, where design, performance, and production efficiency converge.

Key sectors such as smart home systems, bathroom solutions, and intelligent manufacturing will play a central role in shaping the exhibition’s content.

Driving Value Across the Global Construction Sector

CBD Guangzhou delivers concrete value across the entire industry ecosystem:

• Developers & Contractors gain access to reliable suppliers with strong production capacity and project experience
• Architects & Designers discover innovative materials and solutions combining performance and design quality
• Distributors & Procurement Professionals identify competitive partners and establish direct business relationships
• Manufacturers & Industrial Players explore advanced machinery and production technologies

A Strategic Platform for Global Business

At a time when supply chain resilience, cost efficiency, and innovation speed are critical, CBD Guangzhou offers a unique opportunity to connect with one of the world’s most dynamic industrial ecosystems.

More than an exhibition, CBD Guangzhou is a business accelerator, enabling companies to expand internationally, optimize sourcing strategies, and build long-term partnerships.

Plan your visit to Guangzhou and discover how CBD can support your next phase of growth!

Taking place from July 8 to 11, 2026, CBD Guangzhou invites international professionals to experience a comprehensive platform where innovation, manufacturing excellence, and global business opportunities converge.

The integration expands the use of SketchUp across architecture, construction and design applications by allowing users to describe objects such as landscapes, furniture or building massing models using plain language. Uploaded sketches, photos, dimensions, floor plans and reference images provide additional context so Claude can interpret design objectives and iteratively verify measurements within a cloud-based SketchUp session. According to Trimble, this is the first Connector developed by the company to connect the SketchUp environment with external tools through the MCP framework. The new AI Capabilities are intended to make professional 3D design tools more accessible to users with varying levels of experience.

“The learning curve and time it takes for professionals to transfer a vision to a digital model has traditionally been the biggest barrier to 3D modeling,” said Chris Cronin, vice president and general manager of architecture and design solutions at Trimble. “Natural language prompts and the power of AI make it easy for anyone to get started and excel, including inexperienced and non-traditional 3D design users, bringing us closer to our ‘3D for everyone’ goal.”

The company said the Connector also enables version tracking within a single chat, helping users navigate changes, troubleshoot issues and refine designs more efficiently. If adjustments are required, users can describe modifications or upload screenshots from SketchUp to identify specific proportions, elements or viewing angles that need correction. Once finalized, the Connector produces a 2D preview thumbnail alongside a direct download link for the completed .skp file, which can then be edited in SketchUp for Web, Desktop, iPad or iPhone. Users can access the service through Claude’s MCP directory connector settings using a Claude account and Trimble ID authentication. Trimble said users receive a free SketchUp entitlement allowing up to 30 saved models before a paid entitlement is required. The AI Capabilities also allow users to train Claude on recurring workflows and repetitive tasks to improve operational efficiency.