ispo 09, which attracted over 1,950 exhibitors and 60,000 industry visitors from more than 100 countries, saw the Federation of Sports and Play Associations support its largest group yet, with a total of nine UK companies making up the FSPA’s British Sports Pavilion – and all enjoyed a very good show.
After the success of ispo 08, the FSPA, once again working as a dedicated ‘accredited trade organisation’, helped a total of 15 UK companies gain UKTI funding to assist with the cost of exhibiting. Of these companies, the majority opted to join the British Pavilion in order to gain maximum exposure and take advantage of the FSPA’s marketing and promotion of the group.
Two companies that benefited from the FSPA’s assistance were SGIA member Cardiosport, a world leader in heart rate monitor technology, and swim brand Jakabel. Both companies were delighted by the success of the show.
Says Callum Macgregor, managing director of Cardiosport: “The UKTI funding we were able to obtain through the FSPA really made a difference to us this year as it enabled us to get a much bigger, more attractive and centrally located stand. This upped visitors and footfall to our stand considerably.”
Josu Shephard, proprietor of Jakabel Ltd, and enjoying her first ispo, said: “The help and assistance provided by the FSPA for UKTI funding was essential and made my attending possible. I’m delighted that I decided to come to ispo 09 and I’ll definitely be back next year – I’ve already booked my place as part of the UK pavilion.”
Companies exhibiting within the pavilion, many of which are SGIA and SAFEA members, gave positive feedback on the benefits of being part of the UK group.
The FSPA has already begun talks with the organiser of ispo to start putting in place a number of new initiatives for the 2010 UK pavilion, including expanding the UK area, increasing awareness and having a London 2012 Olympic theme. Further details will be circulated to members and interested companies later this year.