PIMEX 2014 organizer hyped about January date

PHUKET: The next Phuket International Boat Show (PIMEX) is open for business, having been taking bookings since early last month, May 2013.

PIMEX 2014 is confirmed to take place between January 9 and 12 at Royal Phuket Marina and remains a permanent fixture in the island’s event calendar as it approaches its 11th year.

“After careful analysis of the last six years, it is clear that in terms of visitor numbers, exhibitor satisfaction and diversity of products on display, early January stands out as a preferred choice,” said Andy Dowden, exhibition director.

Visitor numbers were down in 2012 and 2013 when the show was held in March, he notes.

“The way that dates fall in 2013 means that the first weekend will be difficult for organizers and exhibitors alike due to the proximity to New Year,” Mr Dowden explained.

He said that the event has already received strong interest from lifestyle and luxury goods producers looking to participate.

“We are in discussions with major automotive brands as well as high-end liquor companies, and cigar bars, among others who have expressed interest,” he said.

“A number of private banks, jet and helicopter brands were VIP visitors at the 2013 show to assess the potential and were introduced to some of the leading exhibitors,” he added.

Mr Dowden confirmed that, once again, Paul Poole (South East Asia) Co Ltd is on board to drive sponsorship and partnership channels, while Infinity Communications will be handling Public Relations campaigns in the region and throughout Thailand.

“We are already in discussions with major regional and local media and will begin a comprehensive region-wide marketing campaign six months out from the show. The full marketing plan will be finalized and available by the end of June,” he said.

Mr Dowden noted that discussions are underway to partner with organizations such as METS (Amsterdam), the Turkish Marine industry through the commercial attaché, as well as AIMEX and AUSTRADE in Australia.

“To boost the nationwide presence in Thailand, we have met with the organizers of the Ocean Marina Pattaya Boat Show to promote cross participation in both locations and together raise the profile of boating and the marine lifestyle nationwide,” he added.

Commenting on the show’s social media and web strategy, Mr Dowden said: “We will use Facebook extensively, and Twitter nearer the event to reach potential visitors, and to support exhibitors and sponsors.”

Meanwhile, the show website (see end info) is undergoing a revamp and and will carry links to booked exhibitors throughout the remainder of the year, he added.

In addition to all this, Mr Dowden said that there will be a two-day conference organized by the Institute of Marine Engineering, Science and Technology, which will be held in co-operation with PIMEX, with additional events to be considered throughout the year.

As for exhibitor space, Mr Dowden said that prices will remain the same for the sixth year running.

“Floor and site plans are complete and booking is now open. We are happy to discuss requirements and locations. We are confident we have a good formula to return to a beneficial blend of marine and lifestyle with quality footfall for the 2014 show.

For more information, contact Andy Dowden, Exhibition Director by telephone on +66 81-892 7670 or email info@phuketboatshow.com or visit phuketboatshow.com.

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