We’ve seen a range of people from all over the UK at the show this year, as well as some internationals visiting the show. Of the visitors, around 60% are from the north of the UK while the remaining 40% are from the south. But certainly Northprint attracted a UK-wide national attendance.

It wasn’t just Northprint that suffered in 2009, it was an extremely difficult year for everyone. The show did see a mass reduction in footprint and visitors, but it was also a reflection of the way the industry was. Nevertheless, in my view, it was still crucially important to run the event that year.

Northprint 2011 is double the size and has been a huge success. Around one in three companies were demonstrating working machinery at the show. The first day was steady with quality visitors, and there was an exciting buzz of an excellent flow of visitors on day two and a strong footfall on the final day.

Sales started within the first hour of the show, with exhibitors taking orders up to the final hour of day three, re-confirming Northprint as a show where people come to do business. We are very pleased with the feedback we have received.

Networking opportunity
Among many other reasons to attend Northprint, visitors still want to see demonstrations, integration and machines working, and this year there were plenty of machines on stands. If you compare Northprint with other trade shows, we can really offer a different type of event experience. At Northprint, you get more of a chance to network and speak to people on the stands. It’s all in one easily manageable space, and you can spend quality time with people.

As to the mooted move to Manchester for Northprint 2013, it’s a conversation we want to have with exhibitors and visitors. Without doubt the show will happen again in May 2013, there is now clearly a desire for Northprint. I can’t say without doubt it will be here in Harrogate. We need to have a conversation about where the show’s next held with all our exhibitors and visitors. In two weeks’ time, we will start to research this and ask all visitors, exhibitors and pre-registered visitors that didn’t attend, where they think the next show should be. But this is only a small aspect of gaining comprehensive feedback on all aspects of Northprint to help us continue to develop and grow the show.

People have been experiencing very challenging times, and Northprint provides new ideas and solutions on how to improve profits. It’s not just about investing in machinery. The show offers many practical options to consider. The overwhelming message is Northprint is back, and set for a stronger future. And if the reaction from exhibitors, visitors and re-booking interest is anything to go by, the 2013 edition is a very exciting prospect.

Trevor Crawford, print group director, Informa Exhibitions