International media group and digital publisher Future is bringing a new consumer event in the photography sector to The NEC.
The Photography Show, which will take place on 1-4 March 2014, will return a show in that market to the venue following the departure of Focus on Imaging which had its final edition earlier this year.
The Photography Show is set to feature hundreds of exhibitors, kit and accessories, and interactive opportunities. A full-spec studio suite will also be created on-site for visitors and there will be themed areas including a Wildflower Garden. More activities will be announced in coming months, including details of a major gallery exhibition.
Future publishes photography magazines, including Digital Camera World, Photography Week and Practical Photoshop.
“The Photography Show is a great example of Future unlocking the potential of its market leading brands,” said Future’s head of events Jonny Sullens. “I am really excited at the prospect of bringing such an innovative and exciting market to life over four days at The NEC.
“Extensive industry research pointed to The NEC as the venue of choice for the photography market. I am looking forward to delivering a fantastic event for both amateur and professional photographers.”
“Future has a strong position within the photography sector and historically would have loved to run the show for the market. However, Focus on Imaging was a great event and we had no desire to compete. When we heard that Focus was to close we leapt at the chance and contacted the NEC to throw our hat into the ring.
“In terms of other events we are continually looking for opportunities within the markets we operate – technology, sport, digital design, video games to name a few.”
The Photography Show will be supported by a major six-figure marketing campaign, including targeting Future’s own leading technology brands T3 and TechRadar.com. Previous photography event Focus On Imaging, run by Mary Walker Exhibitions ended in March.
Commenting on the closure, Mary Walker said: “Focus On Imaging will not be sold – I’m simply bringing it to an end… I am certain that the time is right for the industry to perhaps find fresh opportunitities and bring new ideas to photographers.”
In response, The NEC’s business development director Chris Hartley said there had been a lot of interest in reviving a photography show at the venue.
“The amount of interest we received following Mary Walker’s decision only a few weeks ago that the 2013 event was the last, is testament to the fact that The NEC is recognised as the premier venue for exhibitions,” he said. “Future’s success in securing this profile following the invitation to tender process was primarily down to their strong photography market knowledge and position, the strength of their team, their vision for the show, their speed of response and passion, all supported by a sensible commercial offering.
“Future will be maximising the education and learning elements of the show by utilising a selection of our purpose built conference facilities. We’re really excited about supporting Future not only on this show, but also, hopefully, other conferences and exhibitions.”
CloserStill has launched a new health trade show at The NEC.
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