Factor in the cancellation of the Farnborough Airshow last July, and it’s been a truly disastrous year for a global industry that has come to rely on the business deals that take place inside the show halls. Whilst many onlooker eyes are trained on the air displays, the hope has always been that the cheque books are out and the deals are getting done.
Aerospace Manufacturing launched at the 2006 Farnborough Airshow with the specific intention of being the must-read manufacturing trade journal. During that time we’ve covered the industry’s many twists and turns and the odd barrel roll too. We’ve witnessed flying displays of new aircraft that have ushered in major technological revolutions for airlines and passengers. Any tradeshow organiser worth its salt will want its visitors to think: ‘Wow, I saw that here first!’
Virtual shows are a poor substitute. For everyone’s sake, let’s hope there’s an end to this pandemic soon and that they don’t become the norm. Traditional tradeshows often provide just-by-chance moments to strike up conversations that alter the trajectory of future events. After all, sales and marketing is as much about people and personalities as it is about selling actual products.
At the very heart of every tradeshow, you will find a band of dedicated individuals visiting and exhibiting for the sole purpose of meeting people, forming partnerships and doing business. Sure, exhibitions can be hard work and expensive, but they’re well worth it. Until we meet again, long live our tradeshows!
Mike Richardson, Editor
