Yet again, the world seems intent on hindering the success of the London Boat Show. Last year we had the economic climate in free fall. This year we had the real climate helping to make this one of the most unrewarding shows in its history.
 
A let down for visitors, exhibitors and maybe for our new sponsors, Tullett Prebon, as well.
 
Well done those companies reporting significant sales, but those screaming success were in the minority. The sad fact is the greatly diminished size of the event was apparent to everyone, as was the absence of any ‘show’.
 
It seemed universally acknowledged the London boat show would be better described as ‘An Exhibition of Boats and Equipment on the outskirts of London’. Plus some entertaining ladies demonstrating massage machines and some bloke selling glue (albeit very fine glue I’m sure)…
 
While the standard exhibitor discussion centred on the same old things, I attended one of the LIBS 2011 breakfast briefings and found myself pleasantly surprised.
 
Impossible
Most of the discussion points were pre-empted and effectively tackled by Andrew Williams and Paul Strzelecki, who had clearly looked at the show from every feasible angle, proving theirs is a virtually impossible task.
 
It was also encouraging to hear how the new development of ExCeL in 2011 could help us get the ‘show’ back, with an impressive new entrance and a sunken floor to accommodate boat viewing at the appropriate level (yes, just like Earls Court), to mention just two.
Nevertheless, the London boat show is diminishing in popularity, so is it time to ask more fundamental questions about its future?
 
To my mind the most basic of these is the ever present ‘Why does the UK need two shows?’
 
I’m aware it’s simply impossible to satisfy everyone’s requirements. However, it was noticeable at the Thursday morning briefing that many more hands went up in favour of one British ‘Super Show’ than for retaining two shows.
 
I heard this repeated throughout the show, so perhaps its time to go with the majority and stop flogging the unhealthy horse to death?
 
When and where?
So now it’s when and where? While Southampton is the more successful event, why is that? Is it because Southampton is a more inviting place to visit? Or that the show’s on water? Or, is it because it’s outside at a better time of year rather than in the middle of winter? And can these things be achieved elsewhere?
 
The big concern with Southampton is space. How would one Super Show in September fit in?
 
A single show is likely to be better supported. Most would probably spend two thirds or more of their annual show budget on a larger, more impressive display. So Southampton would obviously struggle - even with the planned development completed (sometime in the future; one day, possibly, maybe).
 
So if we accept that September is the better time of year and that a true boat show should involve water, what’s wrong with ExCeL?
 
There’s plenty of space inside and out with a vast water frontage. Imagine watching a dinghy race from one of the bridges! Or perhaps a water skiing display; a canoe demonstration or even a fly casting competition. None of these can be considered in January.
 
But benefits aside, many people just don’t like the location of ExCeL. Access via the Jubilee Line proved temperamental again and the closure of Bank station undoubtedly caused some difficulty. Is this usual, or is line work done during the quieter months of mid winter?
 
Improved transport
What’ll be the effect of the improved transport services in the run up to, and following the 2012 Olympics? I would also invite National Boat Shows (NBS) to use the Thames and arrange a ferry link from Waterloo. My father used the Clipper Ferry to Canary Wharf on the opening day this year, bypassing snow in the City.
 
Could arriving at the London boat show by boat be a solution to the uncertainty of the underground? Would this enhance the day out experience and encourage the south coasters to make a trip beyond Southampton?
 
January is certainly ideal for launching summer clothing and selling boating holidays, but is this reason enough for the rest of the industry?
 
Perhaps one of the holiday and travel shows in January, February or March might be equally, or more successful? I don’t know. (There’s even one at Earls Court for the particularly nostalgic).
 
Don’t forget that many builders are also in favour of a show in January where sales carry them through to Southampton. But are we to believe that buyers simply won’t buy without a January show, or that saving the cost of exhibiting at a second show is not something worth at least considering? Especially with Düsseldorf later in January.
 
Someone else will
What about the argument that if NBS don’t run a show in Southampton in September, someone else will.
 
Well that may be so, but remember the Earls Court ‘revival’ show and its lack of success?
 
‘IF’ the Industry as a whole was to decide to support one show, any rival would surely struggle to attract any exhibitors!
 
The British marine industry supports a great many people and, in many areas, leads the world in innovative technology and design. Surely then, we should have a truly international show to promote ourselves to the international market.
 
Are we satisfied with the criticism we were hearing from both visitors and exhibitors at LIBS 2010? Does this show truly reflect British maritime expertise? Not in my book!
 
My preference is to have one ‘WOW’ factor SHOW that will bring back the ex-visitors, confirm the regulars and, most of all, entice the potentials.
 
September appears to have universal approval as a date, so it’s location that remains the issue. As we acknowledge the success of Southampton, we must also acknowledge its limitations.
 
Just consider the benefits of ExCeL when used to its full potential…

Ian Cooke has asked BB to point out this article represents his own views and not those of the BMF South.