The National Federation of Fishermen’s Organisations (NFFO) sponsored event last week attracted around 900 visitors – a record number for the show - and 75 exhibiting companies. One of the star attractions at the expo were the boat displays, with seven vessels featured inside the exhibition hall.
Steve Rees of Robust Boats said it was a great expo, with the company taking a new order for a Robust 17C vessel from skipper Chris de Courcy of Mevagissey, Cornwall. The vessel will be used for netting and sea angling.
Mr Rees said, “It was a very worthwhile show for us with an excellent visitor attendance. We were delighted by the strong level of interest from skippers.”
Another show highlight was specially convened shellfish meeting hosted by the Shellfish Association of Great Britain (SAGB) as part of their ‘widening the net’ strategy to engage with non-members around the coast.
David Jarrad, chief executive of the SAGB said, “It provided a great opportunity for us to meet with fishermen at the coast and discuss some of the key issues facing the crustacean and whelk sectors.”
A special free ‘Seafood Night’ featuring a range of high quality seafood also proved hugely popular.
“It was fantastic to see so many visitors at the show and the Bournemouth expo is now firmly established in the fishing industry calendar as a ‘must visit’ event,” said Sharon Boyle of show organiser, Mara Media.
“The quality of the visitors was excellent with over 80% there looking to do business with exhibitors. Furthermore, a good level of business was also conducted between exhibitors.”
Ms Boyle announced that next year’s event will also be held at Bournemouth International Centre, on 28 and 29 October.
