How will next year’s
London show differ
from previous ones?
The two main differences are the
timing and the format. Instead of
opening on a Friday and running for
ten days, it will run for five days from
Wednesday January 10 to Sunday- The format is changing to include
three different shows under one roof:
the Boat Show still takes centre
stage but the Boating & Watersports
Holiday Show will occupy one end of
the hall and Bespoke London the other.
Whose idea was it?
“All of the changes are based on
feedback from our exhibitors, visitors
and sponsors, with the ultimate
decisions being made by the British
Marine Board which consists of both
members and exhibitors. The show is
ultimately owned by the industry for
the industry. All profits go back into
providing services and activities for
our members and it’s essential that
we take them on this journey with us.”What changes did
exhibitors want?
“Two strong themes came out of our
market research. Firstly, that many
would find it of benefit to exhibit
at a five-day show instead of ten,
and one that offers more of a break
following New Year. Secondly, it was
highlighted that offering different
market sectors and new products
would appeal to a broader audience.”Why five days?
“A reduction to five days will keep the
show and its exhibitors fresh and
improve the atmosphere. It will still
retain weekdays, popular with our
loyal visitors and important for
industry events, and a weekend, which
attracts families and aspirational
enthusiasts. The shorter show is more
appealing to other markets, meaning
new and increased exhibitors.”With three conjoining
shows, will the actual
boat element shrink?
“As we confirm exhibitors, the layout
will start to take shape with some of
our current exhibitors moving across
into the new show areas. The current
layout plan is concept only and may
change. However, the boats will
continue to be the main feature and
will be shown off in their full glory.”What about moving
to a spring show?
“We looked at all factors, including
timing. However, there is no definitive
demand from exhibitors or visitors for
an alternative date. The London Boat
Show has become an established
part of the schedule of events held
at ExCeL London, where demand
for tenancy is high throughout the
year. The show has a formidable
place on the crowded international
calendar. Over the last few years, we
have worked with the organisers of
Boot Düsseldorf to try to ensure theshows don’t overlap, and next
year there will be a five-day window
between the two events. Plus,
the introduction of the Boating
& Watersports Holiday Show will
attract some of the record number
of holidaymakers who book in the
first couple of weeks of January.”Are there plans for
more ‘show’ this year?
“We are re-imagining the show to
engage future visitors. New shows,
like the Boating & Watersports
Holiday Show, will provide additional
marketing opportunities and a new
relevant additional audience, plus
exciting new attractions and a
vibrant ambience.”Is there room for two
major UK shows?
“Both of our shows (London and
Southampton) are internationally
renowned, playing their part on a
global scale, not only to represent
the strength of UK boating but to
offer visitors an opportunity to see
the best British names alongside
the wide array of foreign brands
they attract. There is high demand
from exhibitors and visitors for
both our events to continue.”Will exhibitor space
be cheaper?
“Yes. Some will be able to benefit from
a reduction in on-costs like staffing,
accommodation and subsistence, too.”Do you expect visitor
numbers to increase?
“It’s a long-term strategy. By investing
in new audiences and offering them
relevant exhibitors, attractions and
shows, we hope to increase the
audience – but it may take a few
years. We’re looking to attract more
core boaters as well as investing in
new audiences and will be teaming up
with media partners, travel titles and
exploring international channels. We
are confident in attracting a quality
audience resulting in a great vibe
about the show with lots to see.”Will more or less
retailers come?
“We’re aiming to retain and attract as
many exhibitors as possible. Though
fewer days may not suit all our
previous exhibitors, it has been called
for by a large proportion, and we are
certain it will attract new exhibitors
from across the industry.”Is this the last roll of
the dice for London?
“The London Boat Show maintains
a loyal audience and remains an
important selling platform for British
and international brands. It continues
to be a notable financial, promotional
and social asset to the marine
industry. Approaching its 64th year,
it isn’t going anywhere fast. We are
fully aware that we needed to make
changes and are confident in the
plans we are putting in place.”The London Boat Show
The truth about
We explain what changes are afoot for 2018 with Murray Ellis from British Marine Boat Shows
MBYINVESTIGATES
The provisional layout has the
Boat Show in blue, Watersports
Holiday Show in green and
Bespoke London in yellowNEWS