A lengthy list of new products were on show, many representing their first UK appearance following international launches, including 15 new products by Martin Professional; the SADiE 6 LiVE system; the UK debut of RCF's VSA 2050 Digital Steerable Column; Audio-Technica's updated 2000, 3000, 4000 & 5000 wireless systems; Clay Paky's first LED screen product - the Mirage LED curtain display; Trantec's Channel 38-ready S6 wireless system; GDS's latest additions to its successful LiteWare and CueSystem ranges including the LiteWare HO (High Output), and Yamaha's new M7CL-48ES digital console and MY8-SDI-ED interface card. These were just some from an endless list of new products at PLASA Focus: Leeds 2010.
Another hit was the Education & Learning Programme, which drew big audiences to the packed seminars stretching across both days.
Bob Mundy, director at Adam Hall, commented, "I'd forgotten how good exhibitions can be. The great hospitality, buzz and business opportunities at PLASA Focus make exhibitors and visitors want to come back. It's a show we're proud to be at and we can't wait to come back next year."
Harvey Roberts, senior UK marketing manager for Audio Technica, added. "PLASA Focus proved both an enjoyable and a successful event and without doubt the busiest we have seen. Attracting a wide range of customers across the north of England and Scotland, we now regard PLASA Focus as one of our key trade events in the calendar and it was great to be able to show for the first time in the UK all our updated wireless systems."
Adam Blaxill, head of marketing at Stage Electrics, commented, "PLASA Focus 2010 was a fantastic show this year. Not only was the attendance good, but the calibre of visitors was excellent. We have made some good new contacts and had the opportunity to show many existing clients our latest range of lighting, audio, video and rigging products. The atmosphere at the show was intimate and warm, but also very vibrant. As a marketing exercise I felt we got really good value from it and we have already booked our space for next year."
"PLASA Focus struck the right balance between exhibitor needs and visitor interest that generated a great atmosphere and relaxed feeling," commented Paul de Ville, senior sales manager for Roscolab. "It has established itself as an important fixture in the UK entertainment technology trade show calendar."
"We were pleased last year and this year was another step up as far as real sales leads and contacts, not to mention general visitor and exhibitor numbers," added Moray McMillin from EAW. "We have always believed that it is important to bring these trade shows out around the country."
Show director Nicola Rowland commented, "We'd anticipated a good turnout after the great response to the first PLASA Focus, but the past two days have exceeded our highest expectations. The show is becoming a 'must attend' gathering of the audio, lighting, video, rigging and stage engineering communities in the north of England. The number of new products on show and the unique atmosphere of PLASA Focus underline how effective and popular the show is for the industry, where it can come together and do business, in the right place, at the right time."
Organisers PLASA Events confirm that next year's event will retain the same friendly feel and format. Taking place at The Royal Armouries in Leeds on Tuesday 19 & Wednesday 20 April 2011, free registration is open now. Visit www.plasafocus.com to sign up for your free ticket.
(Jim
