26EYEBROW
SHOWTIME
Record attendance at successful METSTRADE
T
here are a select number of exhibitions and trade shows around the world that take on a life of their
own, becoming essential global gathering points for all professionals in their sector. As one of this elite group, METSTRADE transforms the Dutch capital into the world’s central hub for the leisure marine industry for a week in mid-November each year. Even by its own high standards, however, the 31st edition offered an exceptional amount of business and networking opportunities and social gatherings. A uniquely convivial atmosphere made the show an experience to remember for all who came to Amsterdam. “METSTRADE 2018 was especially
vibrant as it deployed a tried and tested concept against a background of a thriving leisure marine industry,” said Irene Dros, Maritime Director at RAI Amsterdam. “Exhibitors, visitors and show partners were all pleased with how productive and friendly the event was and the genuine sense of community it provided. As organisers, we were delighted with the response to the new initiatives set up to keep the show fresh. The overall air of enthusiasm was further reflected in the unprecedented number of over 1,100 companies that have already booked to ensure themselves a place at METSTRADE 2019.” Exhibitors filling the RAI convention
centre were especially satisfied with the diversity of the people they received. An analysis of the show statistics confirmed the impression of an event that continues to grow in stature year-on-year. For the first time, the event welcomed a large group of trade counsellors, representing embassies from 37 different countries. This year saw a considerable
increase in the number of visitors from the USA (13% higher than 2017), Italy (8%) and Denmark (5%), as well as those from key upcoming countries in the marine sector, including the UAE (9%) and Russia (15%). A 5% rise
in visitors from The Netherlands was especially welcome, as they mainly represented large companies. The number of country pavilions
grew this year to 19, with Denmark being a newcomer. The mood in these national hubs within the show was summed up in a comment by Julie Balzano, Senior Director Export Development with the US National Marine Manufacturers Association, who stated: “This was a great show and the quality of the buyers was felt among our exhibiting members. The USA Pavilion will be back again in 2019 because METSTRADE has become a must-attend event for NMMA members”. Another noticeable feature in 2018
was the way in which the younger generation seems to be embracing the show, mirroring their greater involvement in the industry as a whole. Many new faces were spotted in the busy METSTRADE Young Professionals Club lounge and YPC events were exceptionally well- attended. Overall, the show organisers
successfully ensured that the show attracted the broadest possible cross-section of the marine industry, as Hendrik van der Linden, Sales
MARINA INDUSTRY • DECEMBER 2018
Director at Lewmar, confirmed: “This year’s show was very successful for Lewmar as we not only got to meet all our major customers, but also came into contact with smaller yards too. There was a great deal of optimism, with lots of new projects, and it was inspiring to see the next generation of engineers and people linked to the marine industry visit our stand. It is fantastic to hear their innovative viewpoints and see the way they embrace modern technologies. The working relationships with this group are enhanced by the experience of those of us who have been coming to METSTRADE for many years”. Facilitating these kinds of face-
to-face encounters is at the heart of everything the organisers try to achieve with the show agreed Irene Dros. “In addition to the exhibitor stands, we are constantly developing new features that encourage networking and personal connections. There can be no innovation in an advanced sector like ours without creativity and phone calls and e-mails are simply not enough. “We generate the right environment
for meetings both in the halls, at partner events in RAI Amsterdam and throughout the city, with networking
drinks/dinners, knowledge exchange nights, awards evenings and parties. As a result, METSTRADE becomes an indispensable source of creativity for the year ahead.” A popular area was the Marina
& Yard Pavilion, where some 70 exhibitors reported a significant number of new and highly qualified visitors, including many purchasing managers. A similar success story was seen at the SuperYacht Pavilion, which this year expanded to three halls and was supplemented with a dedicated networking and meeting area called the Shipyard. The Construction & Marina Pavilion also validated its ongoing growth with an extended area and some successful roundtable sessions. The fact that most exhibitors from the new area of this pavilion have already applied for space at METSTRADE 2019 speaks volumes, a trend that helped contribute to a record number of overall rebookings. Over two thirds of the exhibition
space has already been sold for next year’s show, which will take place at Amsterdam RAI from 19-21 November. METSTRADE
registration@rai.nl www.metstrade.com
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