The commercial marine business was in robust health at Seawork 2010 with footfall up on 2009 – and an increasing proportion of visitors electing to come for more than one day.
Seawork has matured into an important event for the commercial marine sector, not just for networking, but also as a place where contracts are negotiated and signed.
The exhibition this year saw 7,000 visitors, with over 16% from overseas, including a DTI Inward Trade Mission and 32 naval attachés.
Seawork plays an increasingly strategic part in the European commercial marine industry and attracts a growing number of overseas exhibitors, including the Nova Scotia Boatbuilders Association.
One of the unique aspects of Seawork is the pontoon. Sixty vessels representing every facet of the commercial marine business were available for demonstration.
The list of contracts secured at the exhibition and the list of vessel sales agreed at Seawork is extensive and includes the purchase by Essex-based Red7Marine of the Damen Stan Tug 1405. Without question, the number and value of Seawork-related deals will increase in the period following the event.
With exhibitor numbers exceeding 400, there was a multiplicity of new products to see and evaluate. The Seawork Innovations Showcase attracted nearly 30 entries in five categories, representing all aspects of technology from electronic navigation to renewable power solutions.
This year, a Renewable Energy Pavilion made its début. Sponsored by the South East England Development Agency, it provided a platform for visitors to view the extensive plans for offshore wind farms and commercial opportunity.
The Small business zone once again proved its value. As well as being of outstanding benefit to visitors, it allows the smallest start-up company to exhibit their products and services to a world-wide audience.
Over the three days of Seawork, the conference programme included some 40 sessions, accommodated in two conference rooms and SS Shieldhall, berthed on the quay.
In addition to the Training and Careers Trail, which was supported by the Solent Education Business Partnership, Seawork welcomed two groups of students from local colleges to help fuel new young interest in the industry.
Words and statistics from Mercator Media, organisers of Seawork International, are amply reinforced by the exhibitors.
Neil Offord, from Red7Marine said, ‘Seawork 2010 definitely exceeded our expectations, we will certainly be returning next year. The exhibition is fantastic for networking and furthering relationships. Seawork increases our profile further each year which is a valuable part of our Seawork experience.’
Seb Freeman, from Golden Arrow said, ‘This has been the best ever Seawork with visitors of an exceptionally high quality. The organisers have played a blinder and the exhibition has really matured.