IIR has yet to release visitor figures, and wont until they have been audited.

Im not ashamed of the numbers, but sometimes there is too much emphasis on them, said group exhibition director Trevor Crawford. But there were times when [it was so busy] it was hard to get down the aisles.

We were surprised and delighted by the number of attendees and the excellent prospects, said AB Dick general manager Ray Hillhouse.

The theatres and seminars were well received, and proved that it wasnt just another trade event, said Crawford. He added that in the future these elements of education and interaction would be part of all six of IIRs print shows.

Next years show, which will also be at Olympia, will be 50% larger at 6,000m2 and will use the ground floor as well as the first floor. The date has been moved forward to 26-28 October.

If there was one criticism of this years show it was that it was too late, he said. Weve put it forward so exhibitors can get a return in that financial year.

Of this years exhibitors 97% have signed up for next year, and IIR claims to have had a commitment from firms who didnt exhibit

this year. The high number of end users including corporate print buyers has attracted interest from more printers to exhibit next year too.

Story by Barney Cox