When The Big Promotional Trade Show and The Big Wearables Trade Show recently made their regular stop at the home of Manchester United FC, the event once again hit the back of the net with distributors and suppliers alike.
A wave of visitors arrived at the famous Old Trafford stadium to see, touch and chat about the latest innovations in the promotional products and wearables industries.
Liam Johnson-Hicks, from Indigo Promotions, said: “This is our local show, so we always come – it’s a great chance to catch up with suppliers, old and new.”
Fellow distributor Peter Hackin said the exhibition ‘really shows off the friendliness of the industry’, while Love From’s Dafydd Morgan said: “I always enjoy this show – it’s one of my favourites – and today has lived up to expectations.”
It was the first time Broadsword’s Dave Race had visited the show. “I’m really impressed!” was his verdict.
Love To Brand’s Danielle Robinson added: “This show has really grown, and there’s lots of good ideas.”
Suppliers were equally happy with the outcome. Lucy Cooper of Goldstar said: “We’ve been very busy and had a lot of good quality conversations.”
Paul Logan of Regal Toys agreed. “We’ve had a lot of interest on stand, and it’s been a good day.”
Jilly Stubbs, of Promotion Ceramics, added: “It’s a lovely show, and I’ve been surprised by how busy it is.”
The British Promotional Merchandise Association (BPMA) presented an exclusive and well attended Export & Innovation Breakfast Session before the start of the show.
Screenworks won the most Innovative Promotional Product award at the spring shows for their NightCap anti-spiking drink cover. Desktop Ideas were the winners of the Best Promo Stand award. Alan Doyle from Desktop Ideas and Matt Daines from Screenworks received the awards from Tom Robey of BPMA.
Exceptio were awarded the Best New Wearables Product award for The Sockology Centre, their 3D sock render platform that creates 360-degree sock visuals. The Best Wearables Stand award went to Neutral for their effective use of space and colourful display. Ben Lowes from award sponsor Crystal Galleries presented these awards to Gareth Packer & James Horsely from Exceptio and Lee Mills from Neutral.
Congratulations to all the winners. Appreciation goes to everyone who supported the shows this spring as visitors and exhibitors. The BIG Shows will return this autumn.
Entering their ninth year, visitors to these established shows can expect a wide range of products and services showcasing the latest innovative ideas and marketing solutions available to the industry. The shows are trade-only events designed specifically for bona fide distributor companies where promotional merchandise, print wear, and wearables are the primary business.
Full details: www.thebpts.co.uk
