As the first, and newest, boat show of 2022 drew to a close on a high last month, organisers are already looking ahead to next year’s event.
Both visitors and exhibitors to BoatLife Live shared overwhelmingly positive feedback about the show, which took place at the NEC in Birmingham. They loved the diverse range of boats, the layout as well as the overall visitor experience, which included talks by Pip Hare and Katie McCabe on the Live Stage and lots of fun at the Virtual Reality feature.
Despite challenges from Covid and stock availability in the lead up to the show, and then the country being hit by severe storms, nearly 10,000 visitors battled the weather to visit BoatLife Live.
In total there were 140 companies exhibiting over the four days, displaying more than 120 boats from RIBs, powerboats and inland boats to watersports. The feature boats, such as Falanda, SmartFish 25 and Atlantic rowing boat, proved to be particularly popular attractions.
Richard Dove, director BoatLife Events Ltd, said: “I could not be happier with how the show has been received. The hard work has paid off and it is the start of something very special. We now need to build on the success and gather feedback. Next year we hope to have more yachts, equipment and watersports. From the interest we have had from companies visiting the show to check it out, it looks possible. We may need a bigger space!”
Get your diary out as the show’s organisers are currently looking at 16 – 19 February 2023 for the next BoatLife Live!
Exhibitor Quotes:
“The show was really good, very positive, great quality. Boats have been sold and we would definitely come again.” Steve Chambers, Bates Wharf
“The show has been very good. It is the first Midlands boat show for quite a few years and in the first two days sales have gone through the roof. We are very pleased and hope it repeats again.” Terry Wright, Excel Boats
“It was so important for us to have a launchpad for the products and it has been fantastic. We are excited about next year. It is important for us to continue to put this brand in front of people and BoatLife is a great place to do that.” Matthew Bridge, Mustang Survival Global
“It was very good, we came to BoatLife with limited stock and it has pretty much all gone. There was good footfall, the people who came were serious buyers and the organisation was really good. We will 100 per cent come next year and have a bigger stand!” Dan Arscott, Grand Boats UK
“The first BoatLife was a breath of fresh air, positive vibes and plenty of leads.” Mike Cook, Bluefin LED
“Sales are good, lots of people – we are very happy with the first show.” Tarik Safa, Rota Marine
“A great show that delivered beyond our expectations. The time of the year and the location ticked all the boxes.” Stephen Byfield, Vanclaes Stainless Steel Boat Trailers
“The event for us has been really good. We have enjoyed the interactions with the customers who have been very knowledgeable about the industry, their boats and products. And we have had a very positive few days in Birmingham. Absolutely think this show will grow and we would love to be part of it.” Andy Sims, Quick UK
“It has been a great show. We have had a lot of interest and over 1,600 people came through the boat and we are anticipating bookings directly from the show.” Haley Hadley, ABC Leisure
