BVE 2013 at its new ExCeL home proved a popular event with exhibitors and visitors alike. The exhibition hall was buzzing with more than 15,000 visitors* over the three days, and attendance figures indicate a 5% increase in visitors attending for two or more days as well as a 57% increase in international visitors. Organisers also report record onsite re-bookings, with current exhibitors committing to 70% of the floorspace for BVE 2014, which takes place from 25-27 February 2014. BVE North, held at Manchester Central, has been confirmed to take place on 12-13 November 2013.
James Rowley-Ashwood, Event Director, BVE, said, "The show was a phenomenal success for both exhibitors and visitors. The feedback we have received has been overwhelmingly positive and constructive, and footfall shows that the industry supports the move to ExCeL. It has given us a great foundation to build on for next year's event."
The seminar sessions proved more popular than ever, with the quality and relevance of the content attracting audiences that were willing to sit on the floor, stand at the back or watch from the aisles in order to take in the information, advice and practical tips on offer from broadcast and production experts such as Andy Wilson (BBC), Jonathan Harrison (freelance DoP), Fru Hazlitt (ITV) and Philip Bloom (cinematographer). Attendance was recorded at over 11,500 scans.
Visitors and exhibitors alike were impressed with the facilities at the new venue, and many exhibitors noted both the quality and quantity of visitors who stayed longer at the show. The Twittersphere was also awash with many positive comments about the show and venue.
Chris Daniels, Director, Holdan Limited, said, "By lunch time on the first day, the decision to move to Excel had been vindicated. Clearly getting to the venue has not been an issue for the visitors either - we've seen no drop-off in professionals from the West of London or the rest of the country."
