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International Caravan & Motorhome 2008 is No.1 industry launch pad |
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Posted on Monday, October 27 @ 09:51:34 EDT by nukeadmin |
 NEC show bucks industry trend with increased visitor numbers
www.caravanshows.com
International Caravan & Motorhome 2008, which ran from 14 – 19 October, provided some relief from the global trend of economic downturn as tens of thousands of visitors flocked to the NEC. Exhibitors reported strong sales with almost all bettering pre-show targets and some exceeding previous years performances.
As the definitive industry event, the show offered the very best choice of 2009 models, ready to be delivered in time for the new season, and suiting every taste and budget. It also provided an enormous display of accessories and expert advice from dealers and clubs. From the enthusiast to the novice, the traditionalist to the uber-cool, all visitors were
catered for.
Thought by all manufacturers to be the perfect launch pad for products fresh to market, this year was no exception. Explorer and Bailey were among many exhibitors that choose the NEC to showcase new lines.
Rachel Moncrieff from The Explorer Group commented; “It has been an absolutely fabulous show and we have done so much better than expected. The response to our new stand from visitors and our competitors has been phenomenal and very complimentary. Our motorhome stand has been very busy too and the preview of the 2009 model, which is new to the public, has been very well received
Simon Howard from Bailey Caravans commented; “It was exceptionally busy on Saturday, we sold more on that day than we had at the same point last year. I think it was the busiest Saturday I have experienced since I have been coming to this show. We have seen a great deal of first time buyers on our stand”.
Sales weren’t limited to motorhome and caravans either with the holiday parks and resorts also enjoying success. Bob Jones from Allens Caravans remarked; “It has been a particularly successful year considering the economic climate. We have enjoyed lots of sales and have many more leads to follow up. On the whole, everything has been wonderful”.
Accessory retailers at the show were able to buck their trend of declining sales, Alan McCarthy from Fiamma commented; “We have been surprised by the success and everyday sales have been up on the same time last year. In general retail we are not doing so well as last year, but at the show we have done better”.
One of the main attractions this year was iconic star Patrick Duffy from 1980’s hit show Dallas. He officially opened the show and unveiled The Caravan Club’s concept Airstream van, the Ecostream, possibly the most eco friendly caravan ever built. Designed and created by ex Top Gear presenter Steve Berry and cinematographer Tighe Grainger the Ecostream proved to be a hit with cara-fans keen on learning how to lower their carbon footprint whilst on the road.
Sam North, Show Director commented; "The show was a great success. Our visitor attendance for the week is just shy of 70,000, which is an increase on last year. Feedback from exhibitors is that they met not only keen caravanners & motorhomers but also lots of young families looking for an affordable holiday option.
“The high quality of visitors was reflected by the number that bought a new caravan or motorhome, cementing International Caravan & Motorhome as the event in the industry to be seen at.”
Dates for International Caravan & Motorhome 2009 are already booked and the show will return to the NEC for the fourth consecutive year from 13 – 18 October.
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