New shows at NEC
Defying talk of business malaise, Birmingham's NEC has added three new consumer shows to its events roster.
(31 May '08)
Grass Roots Football Live, the Your Money Matters Show and Streetlife are the latest additions to a lucrative portfolio of new business for 2008.
This weekend, football legends Harry Redknapp and Graham Taylor were on hand to coach budding stars as part of Grass Roots Football Live.
The acclaimed sporting event is being billed as a must for aspiring soccer stars, coaches and referees.
The NEC will also be the official launch venue for urban themed event Streetlife on July 5 and 6. A celebration of cars, music, street fashion and sport, Streetlife maximises the venue’s flexible exhibition space with live action stunts, a car clinic and a Fast and Furious Zone.
Meanwhile the Your Money Matters Show will have its Midlands debut at The NEC in October.
Visitors can take part in a host of live seminars and talks to discover money saving tips, how to become debt free and even pave their way to becoming a self made millionaire.
Michael Watton, NEC sales director, Conferences and Exhibitions, said winning the shows demonstrated The NEC’s commitment to bringing in exciting new business.
He said: “We are proud to welcome these new shows to The NEC in what is turning out to be a promising year in the industry.
“Staging a new sports orientated event, and two strong consumer shows prove our commitment to winning new business from emerging markets and meeting increasing customer demands.
“Organisers and exhibitors can rely on our versatility and our excellent location with easy road, rail and air access to the whole of the UK.
"We wish the organisers of these shows every success."
James Robbins , marketing director of Pioneer Events, organisers of Streetlife, said: "There was no contest for us. The NEC has the largest scope as a venue and in future years we are hoping to expand the event with its help.
"The venue is unrivalled for its flexibility and all the transport links are there. We are looking forward to establishing Streetlife as an annual event in Birmingham."
RK _________________________________________