Northtech and some other IWF machinery exhibitors are partnering to have a Midwest regional show in lieu of the IWF cancellation. “We have secured over 100,000SF just north of Louisville, Kentucky, which is where the IWF started,” said Brandon Koetter, president Northtech Machine LLC. “We expect a great turn out of exhibitors and attendees since this area is less than a one-day drive for over 80 percent of the US population. Companies interested in exhibiting should reach out to us!”

In addition, Northtech will be running a promotion to cover the travel expenses of customers who visit the company for a machinery demo. “This allows a much less crowded and safer option for our customers to view and run our machines,” Koetter said. “While we, of course, are offering video demos through the COVID-19 pandemic, there is nothing that replaces seeing and touching the machine in person. Our customers can contact Northtech or their local dealer to schedule a video or in person demo on any of our over 400 machines currently in stock.”

Northtech had entered its touch-activated rip saw fence in the IWF Challengers Award competition. “The new sleek fence design glides on lineal bearing with an autolocking mechanism that reacts to touch allowing the fence to glide easily back and forth with no manual locking required,” Koetter said. “This paired with a digital read out won the Visionary Award in Las Vegas last year so we were hoping to bring home the Challenger award, as well.”

Koetter says he thinks Northtech is uniquely positioned to help reopening woodworking manufacturers to get back on track. “Call us. It really has to start here. Unlike other machinery suppliers, our company is led by former woodworkers who have actually used the machinery we sell,” he said. “This experience, coupled with an offering of over 75 types of machinery, can result in a productive and transparent discussion about what machine is truly the best option for our customers.”

For more information about the Woodworking Fair Midwest, visit woodworkingfairmidwest.com.