Organisers have confirmed that vistor numbers held strong for EAG International 2016 and the Visitor Attraction Expo.
Speaking about the 2016 event, Organiser Karen Cooke revealed some interesting trends in the final figures; “We felt certain from exhibitors’ comments that it had been a good show. In the final analysis, the total number of unique visits was 5,236, almost identical to the previous event, whilst total attendance (including the visitors who attended on more than one day) has in fact grown. Effectively this means that visitors are finding more value from the show and investing time during their visit,” revealed Karen.
“We’re particularly pleased that, in spite of uncertainties in several European markets, the percentage of international visitors to EAG and VAE has increased, at a time when our exhibitors are emphasising the importance of overseas buyers,” continued Karen.
The results demonstrate a further strengthening of the shows’ position as an important fixture in the amusements and attractions industry calendar, a view echoed by many of the shows’ exhibitors.
Richard Monk of first-time exhibitor Aztec Coin Equipment commented, “EAG has provided us with a fantastic showcase for Fireball. People needed to touch and see the product. We had a great stand position and we’ve received a lot of orders; I wish we’d done it sooner.”
Soundnet’s James Luck was also pleased: “We’ve managed to spend quality time demonstrating product to customers and have done great business. For us the show is well worth it,” revealed James.
Several exhibitors, including Bridgend-based SB Machines had increased their stand space for 2016. SB’s Paulo Sidoli was very happy, saying, “This is our largest stand ever. It has a great location and we’re delighted with the results. This has been our best show for a long time and has provided the perfect opportunity to enforce relationships. It’s all about quality and that’s what we have. We’ll go for a bigger stand next year. Italian manufacturers are seeing the importance of the British market,” explained Paulo.
The positive mood was also echoed at the VAE. First time exhibitor Rhian Gordon, Regional Director for Espresso Essential was impressed: “The most eclectically successful show we’ve ever done. We’ve had leads from across the board,” confirmed Rhian.
Exhibitor Berg Toys premiered at the event whilst also helping to raise funds for charity: “An excellent debut for us at VAE. We’ve had fun raising funds from industry members for Help for Heroes. One of our best shows ever,” informed Sales Manager Peter Shaw.
The high levels of satisfaction reported by exhibitors and participants will not, however, deter organisers from seeking continuous improvement. Karen Cooke explains, “Both EAG and VAE exist for the benefit of their respective industries and as such, will evolve to suit their stakeholders. We’ll now be working hard to ensure that views are taken on board. In a constantly changing environment there will always be things that can be improved,” assured Karen.
For 2017, EAG International and the Visitor Attraction Expo will take place at ExCel London from 17th-19th January.