However, IIR Print Group director Trevor Crawford stressed that he was focussed on making Northprint 2011 a success and while he would be canvassing opinion on possible venue switch, it was not the priority for the next three days.

"We've tried to breathe new life into the show, it's all about perception and I'm sure some people may feel Northprint is an old, comfortable pair of slippers and we've worked hard to make the show evolve and completely relevant to the issues faced by UK printers," he said.

"Now that we've got the show back on track, we're asking the question should Northprint 2013 be in Harrogate? The team here are fantastic and venue is very nice, but there are alternatives. But first we want make certain we have a fabulous Northprint 2011 in Harrogate and then make a decision on 2013's venue."

Crawford declined to reveal the level of pre-registrations, but said: "We're clearly well ahead of 2009 and well ahead of our own pre-show estimations and very excited about the prospects for the show… but the bottom line is that pre-registration numbers are meaningless until people attend."

Crawford emphasized the unprecedented level of visitor marketing that IIR, in partnership with exhibitors, have undertaken to draw people to show and lay the ghost of 2009's event, which only pulled in 1,700 visitors, to rest.

He also cited the fact that 35% of this year's show floor is taken by first time exhibitors and highlighted  the example of Northprint's first VIP visitor programme, which he said drawn impressive results.

"Of course, when it comes to attendance, the ultimate test will be when we open the show doors."