Datateam Business Media Ltd., the new owners of Sign & Digital UK and the organisers of Printwear & Promotion LIVE! (the annual exhibition for the UK garment decoration industry) are pleased to confirm that the two shows will run alongside each other at the NEC, Birmingham, from Sunday, February 25th February until Tuesday 27th February, 2024. The shows will be in adjoining halls, with SDUK in Hall 2 and P&P LIVE! in Hall 1.
Event Director, Tony Gardner, commented, “Following the acquisition of Sign & Digital UK, positive discussions have taken place with Exhibitors. The co-location will be a first for the UK’s sign, display and garment decoration markets, and many exhibitors have identified that there is an exciting opportunity to enhance and energise both shows with a co-location.”
He continues, “There are many areas of crossover between these industries, which we believe will provide a real synergy between the two shows. Several exhibitors have traditionally exhibited at both events, and around 10% of total visitors already attend both shows. Co-location presents a ready-made and convenient opportunity for each audience to explore the other market. Visitors will have even more compelling reasons to attend, with the added benefits that a two-show experience will bring. With all this in mind, we are anticipating a combined audience in excess of 9,000.”
How will the co-location work?
The two shows will maintain their identities with separate promotions, online registrations and entrances. However, visitors to each will be encouraged both before and during the show to attend the other event. There will be a seamless link between the two halls to allow for easy access from one into the other, without the need to exit and re-enter through the two main entrances.
Date Change
As a result of co-locating, there is a change of open days for Sign & Digital UK, from the usual Tuesday to Thursday. This will see Sign & Digital UK open on a Sunday for the first time, which has consistently been viewed as a positive step by other shows that have made a similar change, including P&P Live! itself. Smaller sign-makers, in particular, are increasingly busy during the traditional working week and often need help to spare people and time to attend shows.
By opening on a Sunday, buyers have a chance to take in the show in a more relaxed and informal manner and enjoy the opportunity to see the latest technology, learn more about industry trends and developments at the seminar zone and spend quality time with partners, suppliers and peers.
This is backed up by statistics from P&P Live!, which says that Sunday is always the busiest day, with well over 2,000 visitors regularly in attendance.
Visitor Registration
Online visitor registration for SDUK at www.signuk.com will open at the start of November.
Keep an eye on the website for further updates and news on the 2024 exhibition.
