BOAT SHOWS - Market positive despite drop in visitors
The mood was upbeat among the 270 exhibitors following last weekend’s Sydney International Boat Show (SIBS), organisers said.
While the visitor numbers did not surpass the crowds of last year, SIBS said feedback remained positive and exhibitors reported that visitors to the show arrived with a thirst for information and a desire to further their boating activities.
Roy Privett, general manager of the Boating Industry Association of NSW (BIA), owners and organisers of the show said: “Exhibitors unquestionably put their best foot forward.
“Displays were first class, attitudes were positive and many had the confidence to use the show as a springboard to release many new products and technology.
“As a show organiser, our job is to create opportunities by delivering a qualified audience who are interested in purchasing products or who have the desire to learn more about how they can participate in the recreational boating lifestyle,” he said.
The BIA says it has taken stock of the shows activities and is already looking towards planning for the 2012 event. The dates for the 2012 event are Thursday, August 2 to Monday, August 6.
Attendance for the show was:
Thursday | Friday | Saturday | Sunday | Monday | Total | |
| Visitors 2010 | 6967 | 13,275 | 21,610 | 24,289 | 7017 | 73,158 |
| Visitors 2011 | 7192 | 12,213 | 21,037 | 21,896 | 6386 | 68,724 |
| Visitor Difference | 226 | -1062 | -574 | -2393 | -631 | -4433 |
3% | -8% | -3% | -10% | -9% | -6% |