It has been announced today (August 4), that next February’s Spring Fair at Birmingham’s NEC will be condensed into four days (one day shorter than usual), with the introduction of two late night openings.
The new 2022 Spring Fair show dates are Sunday 6 February until Wednesday 9 February with late-night openings until 7.30pm on the Sunday and Monday.
The decision, which has been well received by those in the greeting card sector, was taken after having canvassed extensive opinion from exhibitors and visitors alike as well as analysis on buying patterns and attendance at previous shows.
“We have listened to our customers who had overwhelming feedback that the show was a day too long,” said Simon Lau, event director, Spring Fair, which is owned and organised by Hyve. “Buying behaviours have changed in recent years and visitors have communicated that they welcome a 4-day show and that a more condensed few days with the same number of talks, demonstrations, and meetings would make it a more dynamic and action-packed event.”
Simon added that the introduction of two late night openings, follows “a trend common in retail already” with “the additional opportunities to trade greatly benefitting visitors attending for one day only.”
Sharing her support, Amanda Fergusson, ceo of the GCA said: “This news could not be better timed as publishers and retailers are showing how much they love and need real trade shows. Making Spring Fair a four-day show will provide a better return on investment for those exhibiting while the longer days will make it more flexible for retailers to visit.”
As one of the largest greeting card exhibitors at Spring Fair, Ged Mace, managing director of The Art File has also given the changes his endorsement. “It is long overdue, but so glad the Spring Fair organisers have listened to what exhibitors and retailers have been saying and acted on it. Condensing the show into four days will bring more focus and make it fighting fit for the future.”
The new timings have also been welcomed by retailers. Sarah Laker, owner, Stationery Supplies in Marple and Wilmslow says; “I think it’s a great idea, one less day being away from the shop. The late-night shopping will be perfect for those of us who have a lot of buying to do but are limited on days – a win-win for me.”
The four key areas of the show will be Gift, Home, Fashion and Sourcing, with Gift and Fashion set to be the largest gathering in Europe providing a one stop shop for buyers to source the latest products.
Curated Meetings will offer dedicated networking and facilitated, pre-approved and pre-booked meetings between exhibitors and buyers.
Top: The Spring Fair at the NEC will run for four days next February.
