"The 30th edition of the International Spring Fair is a good occasion to point out that there is something that is functioning well in the new B2B concept", said Mr. Traycho Traykov, Minister of Economy, Energy and Tourism in his address at the opening of the business forum. "In spite of the difficult times, I am sure that the exhibitors have not wasted their money, because the changed concept is the best formula for a major trade exhibition in the conditions of market economy", added the Minister before cutting the ribbon.
"At SPING 2010, we meet the most innovative and vital companies within the consumer goods industry creating the style of life. Most of them are small and medium-sized enterprises, but they demonstrate great flexibility and have already outlined their projects to overcome the crisis. Let us hope that when we see each other at SPRING 2011, the most difficult time will be behind us", affirmed Mr. Ivan Sokolov, Senior Director of IFP.
The International Spring Fair is taking place with the participation of 291 companies and exhibits from 23 countries, such as Austria, Belarus, Bulgaria, Chinese Taipei, Czech Republic, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Kosovo, Moldova, Poland, Romania, Serbia, Slovakia, Spain, Switzerland, Turkey, UK. Official participations are organized by Indonesia, Poland and Hungary.
By tradition, following international exhibitions are organized within the framework of the International Spring Fair, i.e. Foodtech - Food Products, Machines and Technologies; Cosmetics - Perfumery and Cosmetics; Mebeltech – Furniture, Machines and Technologies; Stroytech Spring - Building Materials, Machines and Technologies; Horeca Plovdiv - Equipment for Hotels, Restaurants, Cafeterias and Commercial Facilities; Boats & Sports Expo – Yachts, Boats, and Equipment for Sports and Leisure Time; Exhibition of the Municipalities; Business Consulting; Impressia Art Salon, as well as the National Exhibition of Specialized Companies and Cooperatives of the Disabled.
This year, a Consumer's Choice Competition will be organized for the first time and visitors will have the opportunity to assess food products presented by exhibitors. Among the new highlights are also the Coffee Days held from 11 to 15 May with attractive demonstration and tasting.
Further highlights of the accompanying programme are the one-of-a-kind International Fair Poster Competition organized by International Fair Plovdiv in cooperation with UFI – The Global Association of the Exhibition Industry, the National Corporate Calendar Competition and National Design Competitions. One of the most attractive events is the National Culinary Cup Contest to be held on 14 and 15 May, where chefs and confectioners will show their professional skills.