A steady flow of visitors, an engaging programme by industry experts in the Seminar Theatre, and a flurry of business across the board of exhibitors meant the first day of Meatup has proven to be a great success.
The Meatup trade exhibition once more established its credentials as an important commercial networking event in the meat industry calendar, and got off to a good start at a brand new venue: ArenaMK in Milton Keynes.
The organisers have reported a successful first day, with visitors commenting on the modern new venue and a high calibre of exhibiting companies.
Visitor, Chris Saul from Sauls of Spratton, said: “We’ve entered the National Meat Products Competition, with five products in it. I also wanted to have a look around at the machinery as our company has expanded over the last few months. The show has been brilliant – it always is.”
Peter Wareing, food safety and manufacturing consultant, Leatherhead Food Research, also had positive things to say: "I've made some useful contacts at some of the Meatup stands for product applications that would be useful at work. One in testing for clients, and another relating to advice we'd give to our customers. I also met a show visitor and had a useful exchange of ideas - so I have had plenty of interaction. I found these contacts within 15 to 30 minutes of arriving."
Exhibitor feedback has also been positive. Fraser Ferguson, business manager for Salthouse and Peppermongers, said: “This is the first time I’ve done this show, and a lot of people have come here with a specific purpose, which is very helpful as an exhibitor. So far we’re having a great one. We’ll definitely be coming back again in the future.”
Jan Ayirgan, director of Sultan Meat Products, added: “It’s been so beneficial. I’ve met lots of interesting people, and this is new to us so it’s helping the company promote brand awareness. It’s been great; we’ve met some old and new faces. It was a positive move to exhibit here and it’s serving its purpose. The venue is really nice and the best I’ve been to – much nicer than the NEC. We’d certainly come back and exhibit again.”
The first day of the two day event hosted the National Meat Products Competition, organised by the National Federation of Meat and Food Traders (NFMFT), which has proven an interesting focal point located in the centre of the hall, with compere Neil Hunt creating a buzz around the products and judging process.
Three topical seminars from industry experts also took place and were well attended. Subjects ranged from mandatory product labelling and food legislation to shopper and consumer trends.
Show director Graham Yandell said: “We have been very encouraged by much positive feedback on our first day at ArenaMK. The modern venue has proven to be a success with our exhibitors who are particularly happy with facilities, and of course our visitors are receiving the warmest of welcomes to this important exhibition. I would like to thank all of our stake-holders for their support. We firmly believe in the concept of Meatup and in providing a specific forum for our industry. It’s also great to see such a diversity of people from the trade visiting the show.”
• There is still time to attend Meatup: day two will open at 9.30am on Thursday 25th May, and visitors can register for free entry on the door at ArenaMK in Milton Keynes.
Full details of seminars, competitions and exhibitors can be found at the show website www.meatup.co.uk.
This story was originally published on a previous version of the Meat Management website and so there may be some missing images and formatting issues.
