Over 9,200 natural and organic industry professionals were out in force last weekend, over 19-20 April, as ExCeL London was transformed into a vibrant showcase of the very best in natural and organic products at Natural & Organic Products Europe.
Boasting a fresh new look to accompany its move to ExCeL London for 2015, Europe's biggest trade show for natural, organic, fair trade, free-from, vegan, vegetarian, and eco-living brands, combined a bustling 600-strong exhibition with a packed programme of focused seminars and live cooking demonstrations.
Fantastic, impressive, amazing, exceptional, and wonderful – is just some of the feedback received from attendees so far; with many describing the 2015 edition as taking the event to “the next level”. Around 89% of surveyed visitors have rated their experience as excellent/good, with 95% planning to return next year.
“The reaction to this year's show has been overwhelmingly positive,” says event director Carol Dunning from organiser Diversified Communications UK. “Having been at Olympia for 16 years, moving the show to ExCeL was a huge move for us and our industry, and I'm delighted to say that it has worked out to be the right home for our show, and the right place to reflect the growing importance of the natural and organic industry.
“The support from the industry has been tremendous and integral to the success of this year's event. There was such a fantastic 'buzz' across the show floor and the feedback we've received so far from many of our exhibitors and visitors is that they loved the new venue, and enjoyed the proximity of all the hotels, cafés, bars and restaurants creating a real campus feel, which is unique to ExCeL.
“Big thanks must go to all our exhibitors, visitors, speakers, supporters, and association partners for embracing the show – we're already looking forward to planning next year's event for them!”
“Exceptional show and quality of visitors. We were anxious about the move from Olympia to ExCeL this year, but the health stores didn't disappoint and came along in crowds. See you again next year,” says Cheryl Thallon, founder of Viridian Nutrition.
“You know I tell it like it is, so let me tell you this is fantastic!” says Graham Keen, executive director of the HFMA (Health Food Manufacturers' Association) talking to Jim Manson, editor of Natural Products News, during the show.
“This year's Natural & Organic Products Europe was a great success for us, from securing an award to establishing trade contacts with key retailers and distributors in the industry. There is no other show like it in the UK – the atmosphere and people were great and we had a ball!” says Leigh Prideaux, managing director of BodyMe Ltd.
“We were particularly impressed with the show this year - the interest from visitors was overwhelming, with our seven staff just managing to keep up with the swarms of retailers making enquiries. The visitors were friendly, inquisitive and ready to buy! Basically – a winning weekend all-round!” says Bella Willink, co founder of InSpiral Visionary Products.
“Natural & Organic Products Europe was one of the best shows we have attended this year! We are looking forward to next year already!” says Lia Duffy, international sales and marketing, VerMints Organic Breath Mints and Pastilles.
“It was a great show. We met some amazing retailers and distributors,” says Susie Mills, sales & marketing manager UK & EU at INIKA Cosmetics,
