Trade Events has pencilled in a single-hall show at the NEC for 1-3 April 2003, and claims it will be competitively priced for exhibitors. It also plans to hold the show every two years in odd-numbered years so as not to clash with Ipex or Drupa.

"We have had a good response from exhibitors so far," said Gary Swinford, managing director of Trade Events. "This is the type of show everyone has been telling us they want."

But Litho Supplies joint managing director Gerry Mulvaney said: "The industry needs a show in London in the autumn. Its a focal point for all of us and the timing is critical. Im reluctant to support one more show that would demean Northprint.

"The NEC is a fine venue for the Ipexes but not the right location for this sort of show. I would be very cross if we went back to exhibition organisers fighting over schedules."

Reed Exhibitions, the owner of Northprint, said it would wait to learn more about the Print UK plans before commenting.

Trade Events plans will not affect its Print 4 Marketing exhibition, aimed at end-users of print, which takes place at Olympia from 29-31 October this year.