Sunday June 12, 2005

ExCeL London - June 2005 - London International Wine & Spirits Fair organiser, Brintex, has reported its most successful year to date with a gross visitor attendance of 19,024.

Wednesday was the busiest day in the show's 25 year history, with visitor figures reaching 7,707. The international audience showed a significant increase, with overseas visitors representing 25% of the total audience.

For the fourth year in succession the LIWSF has seen a significant rise in visitor numbers over the three days at London ExCeL. The number of individuals visiting the Fair from the UK and from overseas rose by 6% while more chose to return to the event for more than one day compared to any previous LIWSF (increasing by 7.5% on 2004).

Show director, James Murray, commented: "Our 25th show confirms the LIWSF's position at the forefront of the global drinks business, generating industry revenue across markets in the UK and beyond. Our growth has been organic, reflecting the dynamics of an industry which is constantly evolving. Our focus on attracting quality visitors was extremely successful with more buyers staying for longer, ensuring even more future business for exhibiting companies."

Commenting on the success of the LIWSF, Kevin Murphy, Deputy CEO and MD Exhibitions, ExCeL London: "LIWSF has been hugely successful over the last four years at ExCeL London. We work very closely with our organisers to ensure the success of their shows and the average increase in visitor numbers year on year of 32% for repeat shows is testament to this. LIWSF has again out performed the industry and has delivered another truly international event."/p>

First time exhibitor, The Welsh Whisky Company, reported a lucrative three days: 'We have done some tangible business,' commented Phil Smith. "Our objectives were to reach the UK and key European buyers at the Fair. We not only did this, but made several additional contacts on the domestic and international markets."

John McLaren, UK Director of the Wine Institute of California, commented: "As part of our international marketing strategy of building Brand California, the LIWSF is a vital element. We found it a very successful and effective event."

The London International Wine & Spirits Fair returns to ExCeL London from 16th - 18th May 2006.