Rudi Blackett, event director for Sign and Digital UK has responded to the launch of the new European Sign Expo next year with surprise. The event, recently announced by Fespa and partner European Sign Federation, will run alongside Fespa 2013 in London in June. Sign and Digital UK takes place at the NEC in Birmingham, 30 April - 2 May in 2013.
“We are very surprised that it has been decided to announce the launch of this new show just over six months before the event. It would be interesting to know what research had been done ahead of this announcement as many of the key suppliers in the market have already taken their decision on which shows to exhibit at in 2013. Also there are a number of other sign events in Europe that are well established, and serve the visitor and exhibitor audience well. Is there really any need for this additional event?
“Sign and Digital UK is well established as the annual UK event for the sign making and digital printing industry and the 2013 show is shaping up to be another successful event. Stand sales have already matched previous events at the same time in the cycle and suppliers have not hesitated to confirm their presence at the show.”
Fespa managing director of exhibitions and events Neil Felton has already said the European Sign Expo “is a natural progression for Fespa; sign makers are already part of Fespa’s global community. As the convergence between the sign and print sectors continues, we want to guide graphic producers and their customers on how they can maximise the impact and effectiveness of signage.”