EXHIBITORS RETURN TO SALTEX
Move to Birmingham given as reason
THE IOG has released a statement saying nearly 100 exhibitors are already signed up for next year's Saltex, with some citing the move to the Birmingham NEC as their reason for returning.
The event, which takes place on 4 and 5 November 2015, will for the first time combine with the IOG's annual conference and awards.
The IOG say that the move has "re-ignited interest for those who didn't appear at this year's show". Companies such as Indigrow, Vitax Amenity and Campey Turf Care Systems have already signed up to the 2015 event; explaining that a central location and a more convenient time of year for visitors were major reasons for their return.
Geoff Webb, CEO of the IOG, says "Our industry deserves a thriving trade show as its shop window to the world." "The move shows that the IOG has really listened to the industry. Birmingham is a more central national location, which offers easier access for existing and potential SALTEX visitors - especially those who couldn't travel down to Windsor. Vitax wholly supports the move," said Mike King, sales and marketing manager for Vitax Amenity. Mike's views are echoed by Carl Crome, managing director of Indigrow: "I think this announcement will bring the UK turf exhibition into the 21st century. I've been attending the show since 1976, and welcome the idea of not having to contend with the outdoor elements. The transport links to the NEC are excellent, both for international and UK visitors. Given the location, SALTEX could now become the premier sports turf show for groundsmen and greenkeepers and rival the Golf Industry Show (GIS) in the USA." While Richard Campey, managing director of Campey Turf Care Systems said: "The move to the NEC is a positive one and we will be there in 2015." The IOG's statement goes on to say that exhibitors including GreenMech, The British Agricultural and Garden Machinery Association (BAGMA), Dennis, SISIS, Schiller Grounds Care UK, Etesia, Lloyds of Letchworth and Complete Weed Control, were among exhibitors who have publicly declared their support for the move.
Roger Moore, customer manager at Dennis and SISIS is quoted saying, "Relocating SALTEX to the NEC will provide exhibitors and visitors with excellent indoor facilities and transport links. The change in date opens up the event to more visitors including those groundcare professionals who previously couldn't attend the show at Windsor in September due to work commitments."
Keith Christian, director of BAGMA, said, "Judging by the more considered opinions at this year's show it will be a positive move and one that suits the majority of the visitors who attend the show to buy equipment. The industry needs a show of this character as it is the last of its type in the UK. It needs to be supported by all and the sceptics need to adapt to the concept of a modern show in a central location in a controlled environment to ensure its future. Well done to the IOG for having the strength and conviction to make this historic move."
The IOG also included some positive quotes from attendees in their statement including one from Keith Kent, RFU head groundsman at Twickenham Stadium which said, "I think that the move to the NEC is a positive move for all concerned. There are a lot of people who cannot attend at present as they are in the middle of their end of season renovations. And being indoors you can guarantee being in the dry no matter what the weather. A very brave decision but one done for the best of reasons and I believe one that will pay dividends going forward."
Speaking on behalf of the IOG Board, Geoff Webb, CEO of the IOG commented: 'We are absolutely delighted with the support we have received following the announcement. It certainly wasn't a decision that was made on a whim and is not a change for change sake. We passionately believe that our industry deserves a thriving trade show as its shop window to the world. We hope many will see the potential and, like us, take the opportunity to bring SALTEX into the 21st century."
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