Record Number of Visitors Attend Merchandise World

A bright, late summer day greeted visitors and exhibitors as they enthusiastically arrived for Merchandise World at Marshall Arena, in Milton Keynes on Wednesday 13th September 2023.

Prior to the show, a record number of visitors had registered to attend, and nearly 500 professional distributors subsequently arrived at the event. They were met by 98 exhibitors, eight of which were new to the show, and the event had 13 more exhibitors than in September 2022. All were eager to show their latest products to key people in the trade.

As with recent trends, there were lots of innovative eco-friendly products on display. It is clear that sustainable products are the future and creating new opportunities for the industry. The scores of new eco products featured in ECO World were downloadable by a QR code, giving a simple way for all new eco product, and the supplier details, to be taken away for future reference. This proved a great way for exhibitors to promote their products, and show their items to visitors that may have missed the item on their stands.

In these uncertain economic times the industry appears to be holding up well, conversations were positive and optimistic for the future. Over the years the industry has faced numerous challenges, but each time the entrepreneurial spirit of the inspirational company leaders in the trade have found a way to modify their business to continue moving forward.

When people arrived they enjoyed the free breakfast, and it was obvious that people were delighted to see each other again. Almost immediately, an excited buzz could be felt throughout the entire show hall. The free lunch was a hit, as was the ever popular opportunity to take a moment to relax with the Massage Angels. The roving tea trollies were also appreciated when people needed a quick refuel on the show stands.

Show organiser, Ella Long said; “Seeing the show hall buzzing is always great for everybody. There was lots of feedback from visitors thrilled with the new products and suppliers they had discovered, and the exhibitors felt that both the quality and volume of the visitors was exceptional. Time to prepare for January now!”

If you didn’t manage to get to this Merchandise World, we hope to see you at the next show – it is always worth it, just ask anyone who came this time!