Unaudited visitor figures were up 19% on last year, totalling 4,041. "It's been a fantastic show and proves that the focus, the format and the timing are all just right," said DPW event manager Richard Gayle. Exhibitors across the board reported brisk sales and high levels of "serious interest" from a variety of sectors, not just digital firms.

"We've seen an awful lot of digital printers but also a great deal of commercial printers that are getting into digital," said Morgana director Andrew Webster.

Press manufacturers were more than happy with the quality of visitors. "We've had interest across the broad spectrum of HP products from large-format printers through to digital presses," said HP Digital Publishing Solutions sales operation manager Chris Sears.

AB Dick also reported a good show, where it showcased the KBA 46 Karat and Vector TX52 platesetter. "We had a lot of quality leads from all over the country,"  said general manager Ray Hillhouse. "It has far exceeded our expectations."

Finishing firms also had a good show. Both Watkiss and Morgana reported sales at the show totalling more than 100,000. "We've made a large number of new contacts as well as developing business with existing customers," said Watkiss sales director Paul Attew.

Interest was such that high levels of equipment were bought straight off the stands. London-based 1st Byte bought an Encore Pitstop AF automatic creaser and Renz RSB QSA semi-automatic wire binder binder, both of which are already installed.

DPW is moving to a larger space at Earls Court 2 next year, to accommodate the show's increasing appeal. It will be staged on one floor to provide easier access for visitors and exhibitors.

Story by Darryl Danielli