Show bookings defy the retail gloom
ORGANISERS of the Suffolk Show have reported brisk business from corporate exhibitors booking space at next year’s event, despite the uncertain outlook for the economy.
The Suffolk Agricultural Association says it is reassured by the number of tradestand and corporate hospitality bookings, and the level of interest in sponsorships, since confirmation of the dates for the 2012 show.
Next year’s Suffolk Show is to take place on Thursday and Friday, June 7 and 8, a week and a day later than usual due to the extended Bank Holiday weekend declared to mark the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee.
Plans for the show include an enhanced clothing retail offer and further improvement in food and drink.
Chris Bushby, executive director of the SAA, said he believed the number of advance bookings indicated the prestige of the Suffolk Show.
“We have known for many years that businesses within this region really hold the event in high regard as a sales or exposure opportunity.
“That’s not just for farming or agriculturally biased businesses, but for those in retail, entertainment, food and drink, tourism – and much more.
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“To know that we’ve had this many enquiries before the close of the year is really reassuring and shows that even though there are some uncertainties about the economy, our local businesses and business leaders clearly place the Suffolk Show as a priority event for gaining them access to their customers.”