The Panasonic Convention began on February 13 with a 100 years Anniversary Ceremony at Mallorca’s Palau de Congressos, attended by international guests from across the world. 

Laurent Abadie, chairman and chief executive of Panasonic Europe opened the ceremony with a speech focused on Panasonic’s fundamental goal, the creation of “a better life, a better world” through technology and green innovation.

This proved to be the running theme of the evening, as Mr Abadie explained that the company’s mission statement holds true to the values of its founder, Japanese industrialist Konosuke Matsushita. His central aim when he established Matsushita Electric Industrial Company in 1918 was to alleviate hardship and contribute to the positive development of society. 

After Mr Abadie’s introductory speech, a cinematic-style audio visual presentation told the story of Mr Matsushita and his company’s humble beginnings with its very first product, an improved attachment plug. 

The presentation illustrated how, with the help Mr Matsushita’s international outlook, Matsushita Electric grew steadily over the years that followed. Indeed, Panasonic has since become one of the world’s largest electrical goods manufacturers offering many kinds of products, and with its Heating and Cooling division reaching its 60th anniversary milestone this year. 

Looking ahead, Panasonic shared with guests its vision for the future, reiterating its commitment to Mr Matsushita’s values and welcoming speaker Dr Ayesha Khanna, chief executive of artificial intelligence (AI) advisory firm Addo AI, to the stage.

An ardent ‘futurist’ and strategic advisor on artificial intelligence, smart cities and fintech, Dr Khanna declared that society has now entered the Hybrid Age, an era of human-machine interdependence. She predicted that social robotics, the internet of things and smart cities will comprise the next significant technological advances with the potential to have a major positive impact on society – with Panasonic at the very heart of this movement. 

Honouring the significance of the occasion, Panasonic’s 100 years Anniversary Ceremony was concluded with a traditional Japanese Kagami-wari ceremony, breaking the wooden lid of a sake barrel. Attendees each enjoyed a cup of sake before heading to the Panasonic Gala Dinner, held at Congress Palace Palma, for a three course meal and entertainment. 

On February 14 guests returned to the Palau de Congressos where Panasonic’s latest b2b and consumer product ranges, reflecting the future-focused themes of the previous evening, were displayed throughout the halls. 

After coffee and pastries, all visitors received the opportunity to gain a thorough insight into the company’s offerings, including its Heating and Cooling division, on guided tours led by Panasonic’s experts. Following the tours, guests were able to freely browse the Panasonic range before concluding their visit with a networking lunch.