The 2019 NMBS Exhibition was said to be the biggest event of its kind to date, as it enjoyed record attendance levels as more than 300 exhibitors and over 1,000 delegates headed to Coventry’s Ricoh Arena.
The aisles of Ericsson Hall were said to be busy all day on Wednesday 10 April, as key decision makers from across the independent merchant sector made the most of the event.
Exhibitors were offering merchants special deals, free gifts and exhibition rebate, with independent merchant members reportedly keen to make the most of the deals on offer.
This extra rebate is over and above the existing benefits available to NMBS members, and will continue to be offered through the whole of April for any members who attended the exhibition and placed orders with suppliers.
Visitors were able to see the latest products and services all under one roof, with many exhibitors choosing the NMBS Exhibition as the venue to introduce new ranges.
A highlight of the show was said to be the Artificial Grass.com stand, where former England footballer Emile Heskey was on hand to give away signed footballs and take selfies with the football fans among the crowd. The 2019 Stand of the Year Award was won by Toolbank who showcased its branded tool merchandising options.
The NMBS also held its annual Gala Dinner at the Ricoh Arena the previous evening. Over 600 people attended the Dinner, enjoying a three-course meal and a night of socialising and networking.
The special guest at the dinner was ex-footballer, football manager and current King of the Jungle Harry Redknapp. He mingled and took hundreds of selfies with delegates before taking to the stage to tell funny stories and anecdotes from his 50+ year career in football.
Chris Hayward, Managing Director of NMBS, said: “I am delighted that this year’s NMBS Exhibition has built on the success of the previous years, with record numbers of visitors and a great number of deals done on the day. The Exhibition has again proven itself as the key, unmissable trading event for the independent merchant sector. We’d like to thank all the merchants and suppliers who attended and helped to make the day such a resounding success – we couldn’t have done it without you.
“I’d also like to say a personal thank you to the entire NMBS team, who have worked tirelessly to stage the Exhibition. It’s a huge undertaking every year and I’m proud to say they have excelled themselves once again.”
For more information about NMBS and how to become a member, visit www.nmbs.co.uk.
