Exhibitors' appetite for show is growing

Early response to an optician show questionnaire reveals that a number of Optrafair exhibitors plan to extend their stand space for next year. Several have confirmed they will have a larger presence in 2005 because either they are giving the event increased importance or previous stand space has become unavailable. In the case of London-based fashion frame supplier Jai Kudo, it is looking to launch its 'most contemporary collection of designer spectacle frames'. Creative director Steve Kraitt said: 'We will be unveiling our newest collection. Visitors are invited to our biggest stand yet, where they will be able to study our entire collection in a highly contemporary and relaxed environment.' He added that Jai Kudo would have an early booking facility and there would also be a series of incentives and special offers for new and existing customers. Elsewhere, the Sight Care Group Ð products and marketing support organisation for independents Ð is booking a larger stand 'primarily because the stand we previously occupied is no longer available' said chief executive Paul Surridge. 'The UK optical market is one of the most competitive in Europe with the independent sector under constant pressure to survive. Sight Care assists members to maximise their opportunity providing the help and skills necessary to prosper.' Another group, this time Vision Aid Overseas (VAO), is to expand its Optrafair 2005 presence. After previously sharing a stand with fellow optical charity Fight for Sight, VAO director Tym Marsh has been assured by show organisers it can have its own stand, in what will be the charity's 20th year. Marsh said Optrafair 2005 would be staged 'at just the right time' for VAO following some high profile media coverage. 'There are television programmes on the charity on Channel 4 in October and on the BBC in February,' he said. 'In addition, broadcasters Fiona Bruce and Sir Trevor McDonald have agreed to help us as vice presidents.'