Glassex weathers the challenge: smaller glassex proves a success in face of competing shows

Given the close proximity of Interbuild (the windows and doors hall is sold out) and the recent launch of the Glass Processing & Technology Show last November, the exhibitor profile was going to be more narrow than usual, meaning a majority of companies pitching to the installer.

Nevertheless, window systems companies and glass machinery suppliers were represented. We also noted how many visitors used the event as a meeting place, a reminder that glass and frames aren't such separate entities.

Once again, conservatories proved to be a significant part of the show, and the organisers have embraced this by running conservatory design and conservatory roof installation competitions. Heats and finals of the Glassex Challenge roof installation and window installation competitions actually took place at the show, proving a worthwhile exercise for all involved. Along with the seminar programme, the competitions proved another reason for visitors to stay longer at the show, say the organisers. (See page G18 for photos of the Glassex Challenge winners.)

Buzzing event
The new organising team that made the debut Glass Processing & Technology show such a success in November last year has, it appears, now stamped its personality on Glassex too, with fresh input, ideas and attention to detail resulting in a very lively, buzzing event.

Stephen Redman, Event Manager for Glassex, is pleased with how the show came across: 'The Glassex team has worked incredibly hard to add value to the event and to make it a dynamic experience for all involved, and I think we've gone a long way towards achieving that goal this year. There is always a fair turnover of exhibitors attending the show because the industry changes and Glassex reflects the industry it serves – we don't expect the roll call to necessarily be the same every year, and we don't think our visitors do either. A variety of products, particularly new innovations, are what has always been most important.'

Small, but commendable
The organisers announced a pre-audit visitor figure of 9,045, lower than last year (10,703), which was also a drop on the year before. In view of the size of the show and exhibition calender, this figure was commendable.

So Glassex lives to fight another day, and many say it should. But those who were around in the 80s and early 90s remember a much larger show. Making Glassex bi-ennial would bring back the glory days they say, making it a much bigger show that no exhibitor or visitor would want to miss.

Glassex 2005 takes place from 13-16 March in Halls 18, 19 and 20 of the NEC Birmingham. We can expect a slightly bigger show next year; more window content but even less glass, due to the orbits of Interbuild (bi-ennial) and GP&T (next edition in May 2005).