Feel Good Factor

The UK Pool & Spa Expo put the feel good factor back into exhibitions creating an upbeat atmosphere with many exhibitors reporting record deals.
The UK Pool & Spa Expo team put on the second of their newstyle events for the pool and spa sectors in the Pavilion at the NEC, Birmingham from February 20 to 22 inclusive.
Show logistics were outstandingly easy for exhibitors but visitors had a long haul walk from the car park and a lack-lustre external entrance to welcome them.
With 1,785 attendees it was a case of quality over quantity for the many of the 75 exhibitors, 65% were involved in the spa or hot tub side of the business.
Promised links to the neighbouring Caravan and Camping show did not materialise with a trickle rather than a rush of consumers on a disappointing last day.
“We would like to say a huge thank you to all of our exhibitors and visitors for making the exhibition such a success,” said Claire Saunders from the New Events exhibition team. “There was a great feel good factor and professional atmosphere which encouraged strong business relationships, and a lot of business was done.

BIGGER EVENT

“We opened re-bookings at 2pm on the last day and within three hours over 40% of the available space on the show floor was confirmed with signed contracts, meaning 2015 will be a bigger event with even more new products being showcased,” she confirmed.
One of several first time participants this year was the Summit Leisure team. “I have to concede that not only did it exceed all my expectations in terms of orders and serious enquiries, the excellent cooperation from the floor staff during setting up and taking down plus the hospitality they provided during the show made the whole experience most enjoyable,” comments Graham Kelsey of Summit Leisure. “I have no hesitation in booking again for next year. I’m looking forward to it.”
Heatstar’s David Hayles commented: “The UK Pool & Spa Expo always provides us with an excellent arena to present our products and services and this year was no different. “The show was professionally organised at a great- well known location. The quality of our leads was very high and we expect to make great business from it. A good foundation set for the future.”
Newcomers Thermals Spa agreed: “The atmosphere within the exhibition hall and among the exhibitors has been great,” comments Louise Stringer. “We’re fairly new to the industry, but everyone has made us feel really welcome – offering tips and advice and also helping us to set up our stand. “We’re trying to get established, so the expo seemed like an ideal platform for us to do just that,” Louise added.
“I’ve been impressed with this year’s show,” agreed Peter Turnbull, Pollet Pool Group. “My first impression was that it seemed fairly spa orientated, but there seems to be a good atmosphere and a good mix of visitors. We opted for a smaller stand but nevertheless we’ve had some positive leads, and have caught up with some existing customers, so it’s been a worthwhile show for us. ”
Paul Lane, Aqua Teik: “We are new to the industry, so for us, the show is a great way to network with other companies and individuals within the sector. “We have enjoyed the show and spoken to some interesting people, so I think we would look to come again in 2015.”

Hydrospares commented: “The expo was our very first trade show, and our three days there proved to be an extremely positive experience. We made some great industry contacts, including some potential trade customers and new suppliers. “We have already booked our place in next January’s show at the NEC, which is really exciting and gives us lots to plan for and look forward to.”
Mick Grantham, Creative Ceilings UK said: “This year’s show has been much better for us than last year, in terms of volume and quality of leads. “We learnt a lot by attending the expo in 2013, so this year we have come prepared with a better equipped stand and more company and product literature. “2013 was a superb year for us, with almost 50% growth in the space of 12 months and this year is shaping up to be pretty good too. “We are thrilled to have won the UK Pool & Spa Expo Special Award and we hope to return to the expo again next year.”