The Retail Quarter, the gift fair in Sydney right now, has been a good fair. I have been there over the weekend. While it was not crazy busy and does not have a large number of suppliers, it is proving to be a good event.
I like that the aisles are not as packed with people. This allows more quality time networking and with exhibitors. That alone improves the business experience of attendees and exhibitors.
The greater homewares focus was something I appreciated.
Looking at the fair as a retailer, I found plenty to buy, and I enjoyed that.
Reed are forcing suppliers to attend the Retail Quarter as a condition of getting Reed stand at main fair. I know one supplier who did not want to be there but was forced to attend and took few orders. Diversity of supplier is key to multiple fairs.
Colin, as an exhibitor, I’d note no such force or pressure was applied. I spoke with plenty of suppliers and all were happy to be there as the attended quality has been good.