Figures slightly down but exhibitors are positive
Over 44,500 visitors came through the doors at ExCeL on a bumper last weekend at the Tullett Prebon London Boat Show.
Overall visitor numbers came to 102,655, which, considering mid week numbers were around 20% down on 2009, is a pleasing turn around to exceed the magic 100,000 figure.
MD of National Boat Shows Andrew Williams says: “To have welcomed over 100,000 visitors to the 2010 Tullett Prebon London International Boat Show, considering such adverse weather, has been reassuring for the show and importantly the marine industry
“Feedback has been exceptional and despite a quiet few days at the beginning, the atmosphere within the halls and support from the exhibitors has been superb.”
Exhibitor response has been positive too, Miles Moorhouse from Fairline says: “We’re experiencing a bumper year, selling across the range from big to small to clients from all over the world. We met our sales target for the Show before the final weekend.”
Michael Francois of Jeanneau says: “Considering the weather conditions we have had a good show. Combining sail and power onto one stand has worked well for us and we look forward to working with NBS to further develop our presence next year and beyond.”
Sunseeker’s new Portofino 48 proved massively popular with all 30 of their build slots for next year being swept up during the show leading to 50 new staff being employed at the factory to deal with the high demand.
National Boat Shows have outlined some changes for next year’s event including extending the current North and South halls, not for more space, but for depth (5m of headroom and bigger doors) for the first time, meaning yachts can have their full masts on indoors. Plans to move all exhibitors in to one hall, combine the boat show with related products and hobbies or only have the show every other year are yet to come to fruition, however.
