The decision to take the Skipper Expo Int. back to its original home in Bristol after having held the event for a few years in Bournemouth was a success, according to the organisers.
‘There was a lot of business done at the show and we are looking to next year’s show where we believe we can improve once more. We will be back in touch as soon as dates have been set,’ said Sharon Boyle of organising company Mara Media.
She commented that following consultation with the industry, Mara Media relocated its Skipper Expo Int. to Bristol this year in a move that gained overwhelming positive feedback from visitors and exhibitors, with the new venue providing a more convenient location as well as offering excellent facilities.
‘It is very difficult when changing the venue of a show,’ commented exhibitor Ryan Langley of Hercules Hydraulics.
‘However, the team did a great job getting exhibitors and customers to attend. It was a vast improvement on last year’s show and is now fixed in our plans for next year.’
‘I came up for the day with my two crew,’ said Newquay fisherman Martin Gilbert. ‘We had a very nice day and found Ashton Gate a much better venue for the exhibition. We learnt a lot and could have easily stayed another day.’
Sharon Boyle said that feedback has been very positive.
‘We are delighted to have found a home for this show at Ashton Gate in Bristol. Exhibitors and visitors from near and far attended and we are very grateful for their invaluable input and support,’ she said.
‘We do acknowledge the phenomenal fishing with record landings in nearby ports during the show, which meant that not everyone who would have liked to attend the show was able to. But in saying that, it is very difficult to host a show that will suit every element of our industry. We will always endeavour to host our shows at a time to maximise success for all.’
