The last day of any exhibition is usually a relatively quiet affair for many shows, however not so yesterday. Many exhibitors unhappy with Autumn Fair’s Connect program congregated at the entrance of hall 20 early in the morning in an effort to have their voices heard with show organiser Hyve. Connect, designed to facilitate meetings between exhibitors and buyers has been met with frustration and disappointment. With a compulsory fee for exhibitors, failure of many buyers to attend meetings and a time consuming system for both exhibitors and visiting retailers, leaving both sides unhappy with the new initiative.
Following the demonstration Hyve had a behind closed doors meeting with some exhibitors to hear their views, following this meeting Nicola Meadows, Divisional Managing Director said, “I really appreciated speaking to the group of exhibitors this morning who shared their thoughts and feelings about the onsite experience, the delivery, and outcomes of Connect and the general feel across the show floor.
“We have listened and were able to have a constructive conversation and would like to reassure all our exhibitors that while we evaluate the overall show, gain further feedback, and follow up with each of them, their location and rates will not change. In the meantime, will not be increasing rates and the onsite offer will be frozen for the next 28 days.
I would also like to take this opportunity to thank all our exhibitors for persevering with us and continuing to provide feedback. We know how important these shows are to the industry and want to continue to listen to feedback and experiences to make the show the best it can be going forward.”
James Thomas of Forever England and Toby Powell of Powell Craft who were both present at the meeting said “It is good that the organisers have acknowledged that there are issues from both buyers’ and exhibitors’ with Connect. It has been constructive in that they are prepared to take on our feedback and we’re more hopeful today having met with met face to face, that we have been.
“If dialogue can stay open between exhibitors and representatives of Hyve to resolve this matter into something that works for the industry and for the buyers primarily, then this can hopefully be a good outcome. We’re grateful that they froze any bookings and re-bookings and that they’re going to go back and look into our grievances and most importantly that of the buyers.”
Sarah Ward, CEO of The Giftware Association added, “As a membership Association supporting our industry and members I have listened and have been actively relaying the narrative of Autumn Fair to the show organisers. I have been talking to key exhibitors to understand better the frustrations to reach a positive outcome for all.
Autumn Fair has been a staple to the autumn show calendar for our members who rely on its success for their brands and own journey and understanding how we work through this together is key to its further success.”
Mark Naish managing director of Lema Publishing (Toys ‘n’ Playthings and Gifts Today) said “What is very clear from the conversations we have had with many exhibitors is a genuine fear as to the negative effect Connect will potentially have on not just Autumn Fair, but more importantly Spring Fair. Both these shows are critical to their businesses and aside from the fee for Connect, their very real concern is that if this is not resolved, exhibitor numbers may drop. While it was unrealistic that Hyve would be able to make any promises at the show as to the long term outlook for Connect, it was good to see Hyve treating these views seriously and I hope they address them as soon as possible.”
What are your views, do you like Connect, dislike it and your general views? Please email Gifts Today at mark@lemapublishing.co.uk
