New location

While the multi-trade fair was held in London last year, it is moving to the National Exhibition Centre (NEC) in Birmingham for this year's event, when it will run alongside the Spring Fair International in February. The 2010 edition of the Totally Shows is shaping up nicely in their new home, according to the organisers, Brintex. Show sales director Paul Grinsell has commented that optimism is returning to the sectors covered by the shows, and there is growing interest in the new timing and venue.
Toolbank group sales director Simon Bicknell, a long-term supporter of Totally Tools, commented: "We are very positive about the move to Birmingham for Totally Tools 2010 and the link to the SFI. This will create a show that not only has a huge range to make the trip worthwhile for retailers and merchants, but a central location that will be convenient for most of our customers."
Brendan Allen, sales director at The Tool Connection, also welcomed the move. On the DIY front, Stax Trade Centres is returning to exhibit at the 2010 show - due to the change in location. David Hibbert, joint managing director, explained: "A DIY show at the NEC suits Stax. We have a West Midlands branch, and the NEC catchment area is much better for our network, so we will be able to get a lot more out of it. We'll be very active in promoting the show - not just from a product point of view, but also to get visitors interested in our whole operation."
Draper Tools, a long-term DIY exhibitor in London, is also looking forward to the move. "Building on our success at Totally DIY 2009, we will be increasing our presence at the 2010 show, using it as an opportunity to showcase new ranges and products to the industry.The new venue, combined with the joint exhibition, should mean a wider audience and increased footfall," said Draper manager, Nigel Whatley.
The shows' new home has meant a new floor plan, but show exhibition director James Murray commented: "We're comfortable that the New Product Piazza, which we introduced last year, has earned its place at the heart of the show. It will stay in its central show position and once again offer exhibitors the opportunity to run live demonstrations. In addition, we're also looking at running a half-day conference again for visitors. Our conference at the 2009 show was well-received, but getting the right speakers and content will be vital."
The following are just some of the companies which have rebooked to exhibit in 2010: Abingdon King Dick, AP…