Big Seven '07 prepares for ‘08

Many exhibitors were from as far afield as India, the UAE, UK, Germany, Brazil and Malaysia, while others came from South Africa's fellow African states such as Ghana and Egypt.

This is a very healthy 32% increase over last year, when 184 companies exhibited at the show, but the increase in exhibitors was not matched by visitor number, which actually dropped, from 6 997 last year to 6 731 this year. It seems problems in advertising the event meant that potential visitors either heard about it too late, or not at all – proving that timing is everything when it comes to publicity.

However, the lower figures were compensated for, to some extent, by the fact that the number of visitors with the authority to purchase was slightly up on last year (reaching almost 47%) - meaning that the potential to cut deals and build partnerships was also marginally increased. Just over half of the visitors were directors, business owners or in senior management.

The number of international visitors also showed a healthy increase, with numbers now coming from 40 countries this year as opposed to just 31 in 2006.

Overall, the visitors to the show came ranged from wholesale and retail (independent, convenience and chain) to manufacturing, distribution and importing – a good mix across the sector.

The organisers are now accepting booking for next year's show, which will take place on July 20-22. Currently, the organisers are accepting bookings for next year's exhibition at 2007 prices. For further details go to http://www.exhibitionsafrica.com/.