Christian Knapp, managing director, KBA UK
"I support a move to Excel as I think it would have a positive impact on the level of overseas visitors to the show and it would help further its reputation as an international event. Obviously, how the move would affect UK visitors would have to be taken into account and I am sure that it is something IIR would give serious thought to. Logistically, I don’t think it would be a problem as by then, after the Olympics, I would hope that London would have the infrastructure to support such an event."

Duarte Goncalves, managing director, DXG Media
"I think that Birmingham has the infrastructure to support a show like Ipex and it works really well there. I imagine London is the same to a degree, but the layout of the NEC is good. Its location also benefits companies coming from the North as a journey down to London will, of course, add a few more hours. So, for smaller companies, I feel that Birmingham offers the all-round better location for Ipex at present. While London could prove to be a magnet for international visitors, I don’t think that keeping it in Birmingham would make that much of a difference."

Graham Harris, managing director, Tech-ni-Fold
"In principle, I think a move is a good idea, but there are definitely a number of issues to overcome. Many visitors to Ipex have done so for many years and, as a result, are familiar with the layout, surrounding and their travel plans. I am not sure how well London could cope in comparison with regards to a travel and accommodation infrastructure and, speaking for us, the Birmingham NEC is so straightforward when organising our plans for the show. The NEC always does so well in looking after people and that counts for a lot. That said, I always want to try new things, so I would not rule it out just yet."

Nigel Cliffe, managing director, Cliffehanger
"With many of my clients being based in London and none in Birmingham, it makes it an easier task for me to attend Ipex 2014 in London as I can cover many more options in a visit of a few days. I have to add that I think London is the best place for an international exhibition as the city has far more convenient travel options and attractions for foreign visitors. I would think that for the majority of northern-based printers it makes little difference as the main problem is getting time away from keeping the business upright."