Markex visitors to get even more value

With its focus on sports sponsorship and related marketing activities, the addition of the new Business of Sport exhibition to the Markex & World of Events show (7 - 9 June 2005) will add a whole new dimension to the event. It has been described as an important addition for local business and marketing decision makers by both the Deputy Minister of the Department of Sport and Recreation and internationally qualified sports lawyer, David Becker.

Considering the significant growth of sports sponsorship and associated activities worldwide against dwindling traditional above-the-line advertising and media spend, it is anticipated that the Business of Sport event will turn the South African marketing industry on its head - by exposing key decision makers to the vast number of high-profile, profitable, promotional opportunities that sport and sport sponsorship affords them. Business of Sport will demonstrate the true value of sports-associated sponsorship and marketing activities by showcasing the products, services and spaces that can now be used to promote, enhance and grow a business and brand.

In South Africa, as with the rest of the world, sports sponsorship has shown tremendous growth as a marketing medium over the past few years. According to BMI-Sport Info, direct sponsorship spend grew from R63 million in 1985 to R1 884 million in 2004. An additional R1 664 million was spent over the same period in leveraging or sponsorship enhancement. As the next "big thing" in marketing, it makes perfect sense that it should come under the spotlight at Markex & World of Events, the only exhibition of its kind in SA endorsed by the Marketing Federation of South Africa (MFSA) and SAACI.

To find out more, or to pre-register online, please visit www.markex.co.za or www.businessofsport.co.za.