Invaluable innovation
A record number of entries were received for the Innovation Zone at the Executive Hire Show. We provide an overview of the selection process and preview the eventual 14 finalists.
One of the main reasons why hirers must attend the Executive Hire Show is the chance it gives them to discover new products they can profitably add to their fleets. So visiting the Innovation Zone at this year’s exhibition should be considered absolutely essential.
The initiative celebrates new tools, plant and equipment that address issues that hirers and end users are concerned about, such as safety, efficiency, quality and environmental impact, and for this year there were a record number of entries from exhibitors. Of the 40 submitted, 14 have ultimately been selected for display in the Zone at the Show. They were chosen by a judging panel that comprised Andy Connor, Supply Chain Director of Speedy, which sponsors the Zone; Carl Banks, MD of P.E.T. Hire in Crewe, joint winner of the 2011 Passionate Hirer Award; Jim Field, Commercial Director of Supply UK Hire Shops; Andy Earll, MD of Rugeley-based Ace Line Plant; and EHN Editor Alan Guthrie.
Entries ranged from power tools, diamond blades and training aids, to lighting towers, low-level access products and compact plant, and so the full-day judging session proved to be an absorbing exercise.
I visit the Show. In fact, there are some that I would probably buy right now for our hire fleet.”
Similarly, Andy Earll said, “It’s been a fascinating session and I have come away with details of products that I am sure we could profitably add to our line-up. And as the chosen Finalists cover a range of different hire markets, there should be something in the Zone to appeal to all hirers.” Jim Field added that, “It’s clear that suppliers have been listening to hirers, recognised their requirements and developed solutions. During our discussions today, the entire panel have found themselves sharing opinions and experiences, and it’s been great to know that there are new products that address our needs, and those of our customers.”
Pictured at the judging session are, from left, Andy Connor, Alan Guthrie, Andy Earll, Jim Field and Carl Banks.
The 14 finalists, which are summarised below, will be displayed in the large Innovation Zone situated in the ‘Top Tier’ of the Show. All visitors will be invited to vote for their favourite product by simply leaving a business card in the ballot box beside their chosen item. All business cards will also be entered into a prize draw to win £500 to be spent on any of the products in the Zone. The winning
exhibitor will be announced at the Show at 3pm on Thursday 9 February and will win the Speedy Innovation Award.
“I am really delighted that this year’s Innovation Zone attracted so many entries,” said Andy Connor. It means there will be plenty of genuinely new products on display for hirers to see at the exhibition, and it shows that suppliers are continuing to invest in research and development despite the challenging economic background.” Carl Banks was equally enthusiastic. “Today I have learned about several products that I will definitely be looking at in more detail when
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The above comments from the hirers on the judging panel clearly show why exploring the Innovation Zone should be an essential part of every hirer’s Show visit. Not only does it highlight the very latest in product developments for our industry, you could also discover one or more important fleet additions. The advantage that gives to your business during the year ahead could be invaluable.
Wed 8 & Thurs 9 February 2012 KEEP UP
EXHIBITOR STAND TT13
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