Three hundred twenty-five (325) visitors representing 221 companies have participated in one of the three events held in the Middle East and Africa in April 2024.
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The three cities were Lagos in Nigeria, Nairobi in Kenya and Dubai in the UAE.
Each event lasted just one day and was only open to buyers, distributors, and suppliers. Each was invited personally, having a proven ability to import products, even if they had never done so from China.
Over three-quarters of the attendees have never purchased from China nor visited Zhuhai, where many of the Chinese-based exhibitors are based.
Many visitors attending the first printer, copier, and supplies expos wanted to know how the organizers found and invited them to the events. C-RT had spent months researching the latest up-to-date buyer database from various government and customs reports.
Visitors thanked organisers for bringing the event to the regions, adding they were placing large orders with new suppliers at the event. Other buyers also commented on the quality of the exhibitors.
“These VIP events are a daunting concept for organisers and exhibitors alike, especially when held only a few days apart,” said Mr. David Gibbons, international Events and Communication Director of Comexposium Recycling Times (C-RT).
According to the newly appointed Ms. Cecile Zheng, Vice-General Manager of the Zhuhai-based organiser, the exhibitors were promised at least 150 large VIP distribution companies. “We surpassed our goals of 300 visitors from 150 companies by 32% over the three days,” she said.
5-star hotels and venues that could provide extraordinary catering were chosen to provide a relaxed environment for business.
Those exhibitors who were kept the busiest had used the database supplied by the organisers to pre-arrange appointments with the buyers.
“A unique feature of this VIP Expo model is that every exhibitor is given a full list of expected attendees ten days before the expo,” Gibbons explained. “We provide an updated list within a week after the expo is completed.”
“We have helped build a sense of community and industry in these three locations,” said Mr. Gustavo Molinatti, the C-RT Event Manager. “I was constantly approached by visitors thanking C-RT for bringing these events to the Middle East and Africa. It is very satisfying knowing you are helping to build their respective businesses and the industry in these regions.”
The African continent is home to 1.4 billion people, and as an emerging market, there is a growing demand for printers, copiers, and supplies. This is unlike the mature markets of North America and Western Europe, where the demand for similar supplies has flattened and is declining.
Over 14 days in June, exhibitor-suppliers and visitor-buyers will again participate in VIP Expos in three more cities in Latin America: Santiago (Chile), Sao Paulo (Brazil) and Lima (Peru).
Covered By: Imaging Solution / C-RT
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