Partnership is key to innovation

摘要

SMM claims, with justification, to be the largest maritime technical show anywhere. The exhibition can be overwhelming: more than 2,000 exhibitors and tens of thousands of visitors - even more with the series of full-day themed discussions attracting thinkers as well as doers. What marks SMM out from many of the more technical shows is its clear focus on innovation and trends rather than solely on the products themselves. This new focus is gradually being understood and challenging the more forward-looking companies to reconsider what they do. Mikael Makinen, president of Rolls-Royce Marine, said his business is in the midst of change as the move from mechanical to electrical systems gathers momentum. The company has developed a mindset that seeks improved performance and increasing optimisation, surely a legacy from the aviation sector that has found a warm welcome in maritime. "Everybody understands something is happening," Makinen explained. "Product suppliers are facing a difficult future as prices are driven lower. Their margins are tiny."