METS 2015: Attendance surges into final day

Exhibitors at the Amsterdam Rai have had nothing but praise for the 2015 METS as the show wraps up Thursday.

Wednesday attendance was reported at 9,121, a 7.2 percent gain over the 8,506 who attended on the second day of METS last year. With Tuesday’s attendance jump (7,390, compared to 7,116 in 2014) overall attendance for the world’s largest marine equipment trade show was trending 5.7 percent over 2014 – which itself was a record year.

Visitors were still picking up badges on Thursday afternoon, with only a few hours remaining for the world’s largest marine trade show.

“This is just an overwhelmingly positive show,” said Charles Sweet, CEO of Deerfield Beach, Florida-based Bennett Marine. “It gives us an opportunity to see many of our international partners in person, under one roof, but it’s also been a wonderful opportunity to meet with new customers as well. It’s been non-stop at our booth, very busy, and I don’t think we’ve even broken for lunch once because it’s been non-stop every single day.”

At the Aquatic AV booth, Robert Fils described this year’s METS as exceeding expectations. “With everything you hear about the European economy still lagging we didn’t expect the level of activity we’re seeing,” said Fils. “We’re quite surprised, really. There’s been a lot of interest from prospective new customers.”

“We’ve had a great show,” said Jason Gardner, CEO with Melbourne, Florida-based SeaDek. “This is our second year at METS and it’s been beyond expectations. We’ve spoken to customers from literally every continent. Even if the economy in Europe hasn’t returned to full strength people are genuinely excited and positive, and they’re looking forward to growing their business.”

Irene Dros, maritime manager, MetsTrade, notes that a significant number of exhibitors have already rebooked their show space. Next year’s METS runs from November 15 to 17 inclusive at the Amsterdam Rai.

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