AFPOP’s two day Better Living in Portugal exhibition, which took place in the Algarve last weekend, was always going to be a winner, but the size of the win exceeded all expectations.
In fact, it was so popular that the official opening could not be carried out, as even before the gates opened at 10am, the public was waiting to visit the 240 stands filling the two pavilions at ExpoArade in Portimão. AFPOP President, Sheena Rawcliffe, who headed up the organisation of the event for the fourth year running, was amazed and delighted at the response by the exhibitors and public.
“Each year I have found the professionalism and enthusiasm for the BLiP Exhibition increases,” she commented. “In 2001 we started with 100 spaces and a great response from visitors. To achieve the dizzy heights of 240 spaces, plus a fantastic turnout of new motor vehicles from the Costa da Golfe group, in just four years, indicates how important BLiP has become in the Algarve”.
Sheena went on to explain that this year, the event was far and away the most exceptional. “The Portimão venue allowed for expansion, although there were still people on the waiting list as the doors opened on Saturday. With professional caterers, good parking for the public and so much to see and do plans are already being put into place for 2005.”
The public attendance this year was nearly 7,000, confirming the reputation gained in previous years and the constant need for an event where hundreds of products and services are available in one area.
And what about 2005?Well, planning has already started for an even bigger and better event.“There is so much opportunity still open to us,” said Sheena, “and we look forward to producing a Better Living in Portugal exhibition for many years to come”.
How did exhibitors and visitors view the exhibition this year at its new venue in Portimão? The Royal British Legion had a stand for the first time this year and signed up 50 new members.A fantastic result for the RBL in the Algarve.
“I came to specifically see seven people – I have seen them all – and many more, it was great”. Visitor
“What a fantastic exhibition, it goes from strength to strength, and this year there is far more room to move around here in Portimão. A great location.”Visitor
“A much better location. We have been able to see many more prospective clients this year, because there is so much more room.” Auto Heat
“This was my first time as an exhibitor, and it was a great exhibition. Lots of sales and genuine interest.” Golf Loucura
“A quick and totally inadequate note to congratulate you and your team for a truly well run event last weekend.” CareLine Portugal
“Once again thank you so much, another superb event – every year it is even better than the last.” Joro Lda
“We took bookings for everything from theatre dinners, Christmas programmes, belly dancing classes, golf, birthday parties, weekend breaks and lots more.”Hotel Garbe & Hotel Carvoeiro Sol.
“It was a very successful event, we had a lot of visitors and we have every intention of attending next year.” Engel & Völkers
If you are interested in receiving information about the 2005 event and were not an exhibitor this year then email [email protected] or fax 282 340211. For those who are not yet members of AFPOP and would like to know more, please call 282 458 509 or visit www.afpop.com
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