UK – The Merchandise World, Milton Keynes, opened its doors once again on Wednesday, September 11, 2024. 109 exhibitors (2023:98) met up with interested visitors from the promotional products trade at the show that is jointly organised by the BPMA (British Promotional Merchandise Association) and Sourcing City. The event that was staged in the Marshall Arena in Milton Keynes predominantly attracted visitors from the United Kingdom and Ireland, but distributors from the EU also travelled to the show to inform themselves about the trends and novelties of the British industry. The organisers registered over 200 represented companies among the visitors.
There were 14 newcomers among the exhibitors, furthermore 13% of all the exhibitors came from abroad and presented products or services that are not readily available from British providers. Including also services that allow distributors to order and deliver goods directly in the EU. Sustainable promotional products was once again the clear focus of both the exhibitors and visitors. In line with this trend, a special zone entitled “Eco World“ that was newly introduced in 2023 showcased corresponding products and proved itself to be an efficient way for visitors to find environmentally-friendly solutions for their business again this year.
The BPMA and Sourcing City were subsequently delighted about the positive, productive atmosphere at the show. According to the organisers, the exhibition halls were buzzing and many valuable business discussions were held. Free catering – comprising of breakfast at the start of the show, lunch as well as mobile tea trolleys for an in-between refreshment – further enhanced the good mood. Some of the visitors additionally took advantage of the opportunity to relax their tired shoulders with the aid of a massage.
The show organiser, Ella Long, said: “We were delighted to again put on such a successful show and it always makes my day special to get so many compliments from satisfied visitors and exhibitors.”
The next spring edition of the Merchandise World is scheduled to take place at the CBS Arena in Coventry on January 22 and 23, 2024. The autumn edition is planned for September 10, 2024 and it will be staged in the Marshall Arena in Milton Keynes again.
Photo source: Sourcing City
