SHOW REVIEW: SPRING FAIR
Spring has sprung!
The revitalised Spring Fair International 2012 attracted over 63,500 retailers with world-class exhibitors and stunning new product launches
The latest edition of Spring Fair International at The NEC Birmingham, has demonstrated the resilience of the industry against a backdrop of economic pressure and inclement weather with solid visitor numbers and an improved layout.
blocked roads, train and airport cancellations to catch the first glimpse of 300,000 brand new products being launched by 3,000 exhibitors at the 2012 show, including hundreds of new suppliers and start-up businesses. The collective strength of the
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offering from the superb suppliers exhibiting across 12 show sectors ensured Spring Fair was an essential destination for the retail trade, which appeared fully galvinised in the face of challenging local and worldwide economic conditions. A total of 63,500 buyers attended the show, including 6,000 from overseas. Carefully considered styling combined with optimum functionality topped the agenda at the exhibition, which was beautifully presented with collaboration from a renowned interior designer. Scores of new elements were incorporated to give visitors a more comfortable and
ens of thousands of retailers from around the UK and wider world defied snow,
inspiring show experience. The exhibition was transformed
for 2012 following a two-year consultation phase with exhibitors, visitors, trade associations and other members of the industry, and significant investment from show owner Emap Connect. The result was much clearer product zoning, improved signage and information points, many extra ‘Here to Help’ staff and catering options, free water throughout the show, numerous trend- focused features and an extensive programme of seminars. Popular existing features
including Cook Live!, the Fashion Accessories Catwalk, Toy Demo area and Pandora Catwalk Café at The Jewellery Show once again drew large crowds, while numerous special events and celebrations underscored the importance of Spring Fair as a hub of the gift and home trade. The Gift of the Year 2012 awards
were held on Sunday February 5 at the Hall 6 Trend Briefing and Seminar Theatre, where British designer Sarah Campbell presented accolades to delighted exhibitors at a champagne reception attended by press, finalists and other VIPs. The Licensing Lounge in Hall 3
was another successful new feature that attracted around 100 senior figures in the licensing industry and garnered praise from
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trade organisation LIMA, who were represented throughout the show by managing director Kelvyn Gardner. Speaking after the show had
closed its doors on Thursday 9 February, the managing director of Emap Connect Home & Gift, Louise Young, said: “The resilience of retail has really shone through this year, with buyers making it to the show despite some particularly severe weather conditions across the country. “Those retailers who braved the
adverse conditions were amply rewarded with a first sight of countless stunning new product launches showcased on some of
the most inspirational stand designs I’ve ever seen. “We have now embarked on
the journey to raise the bar at Spring Fair, but this is just the start. Businesses that took part this year have already been feeding back to us on how we can further improve the event, and we will be working hand-in-hand with them to take the 2013 show experience to another level for both exhibitors and visitors”. The next edition of Spring Fair
International will take place on 3-7 February 2013.
For more information visit
www.springfair.com
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