Packaging show organiser easyFairs® has reported another record visitor turnout
after numerous brand managers, packaging technologists, product developers and
production managers attended last week's NEC exhibition.
In total, 4,208 visitors attended easyFairs® PACKAGING INNOVATIONS, ECOPACK,
PACKTECH and CONTRACT PACK - an increase of four per cent on 2009.
They included packaging professionals from companies such as Tesco, Heinz,
Boots, Asda , Waitrose and SAB Miller - all attracted by the latest packaging
materials and design concepts, sustainable solutions, machinery, technology and
outsource services on offer from 400 exhibitors.
That figure also represents a year-on-year increase and, encouragingly, nearly
200 companies have already rebooked for the 2011 show which is scheduled for 16-
17 February again at Birmingham's NEC.
easyFairs® Managing Director Matt Benyon said: "Considering that we're still
experiencing tough times with regards the economic climate, it is therefore very
impressive to achieve an increase in visitor numbers.
"It's also clear that brands see engaging pack design as key to beating the
recession. Right now, with shoppers less willing to part with their money,
brands are desperate to create shelf standout and differentiation. Packaging is
one of the key strategies they'll be using to attract scarcer spending - and our
events showcase the latest innovations at their disposal."
Exhibitors and visitors alike were impressed by the packaging show quartet.
Mark Springham, from easyFairs ECOPACK exhibitor Inka Pallets, said: "We have
attended many large packaging related exhibitions at the NEC over the past 25
years, and easyFairs' Packaging Shows 2010 must be regarded as one of the best
ever. Despite a gloomy economical outlook we were delighted with the number of
visitors to our stand. Not only did we receive a great number of enquiries we
also had some exciting enquiries from some household business names, and
sometimes it is not always easy to get to speak to these key decision makers,
let alone meet them face-to-face."
And Frank Vanmeenen, Global Marketing Manager, Xeikon said: "Being an innovator
in digital printing, the packaging market is more and more becoming a key market
for Xeikon. Therefore we wanted to be present at the easyFairs Packaging
Innovations show. However, we had never expected this exhibition to be such a
big success, by number and by quality of the visitors. We have already signed up
for next year's edition."
ESP Sales Director Will Garrity was on the lookout for new packaging materials.
He said: "There was a huge amount of innovation at the show, along with a
fantastic number of quality exhibitors, and learnShops. easyFairs Packaging is
now a permanent fixture in my diary."