Hyve Group, the event organizer responsible for the UK Autumn Fair, is introducing a groundbreaking initiative called Connect @ Autumn Fair. This innovative digital meeting system aims to revolutionize the traditional trade show model by offering a transformational new approach to buying. Excitingly, some of the UK’s major retailers, including John Lewis, have already endorsed this initiative, highlighting its potential to connect retailers and brands on an unprecedented scale.
Set to begin in September, Connect @ Autumn Fair will lead the way for the retail community, completely transforming the buying experience by facilitating thousands of meetings before the show opens on September 3-6. The ultimate goal is to connect thousands of the UK’s leading buyers and retailers with all 600+ Autumn Fair exhibitors before the event even begins.
Powered by cutting-edge yet user-friendly technology, Connect @ Autumn Fair provides exhibitors with the means to generate leads, orders, and opportunities with buyers, transforming random encounters into guaranteed connections. The event expects to host over 6,000 meetings, each lasting 15 minutes and mutually agreed upon. These meetings will take place directly on the exhibitors’ stands, allowing buyers to explore the exhibitors’ full product range. Buyers have the freedom to participate in as many double opt-in 15-minute meetings as they desire, limited only by availability and mutual interest. If more time is needed, follow-up meetings can be scheduled during or after the show.
Addressing the importance of this investment, Nicola Meadows, Portfolio Director at Spring & Autumn Fair, emphasized that it is the largest investment in the history of the event. Recognizing that buyers’ time is precious and justifying time away from their retail space is increasingly challenging, Connect @ Autumn Fair aims to tackle these concerns head-on. It allows buyers to proactively source and plan their time at the show in advance, ensuring they meet with suppliers who can meet their specific needs. Detailed information about every exhibitor and product category, including details on origin, sustainability credentials, pricing, and minimum order values, is readily available to retailers. This means they can pre-select meetings with brands that align with their requirements.
Connect @ Autumn Fair has the potential to revolutionize the future of trade shows and create a more efficient and personalized buying experience. This bold initiative provides a glimpse into a future where technology seamlessly connects retailers and brands, making trade shows more strategic and valuable for all parties involved. Hyve Group’s investment in this initiative showcases their commitment to innovation and driving positive change within the trade show space. As Connect @ Autumn Fair debuts, it will undoubtedly set a new standard for trade shows and pave the way for similar transformative initiatives in the future.
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