Promising signs

The level of bookings made by the end of November for the fourth Asia-Pacific Sourcing fair was interpreted by Oliver P. Kuhrt, executive vice president of Koelnmesse, as an “indication of the Asian economy’s recovery from the crisis, which was still seriously affecting the markets just two years ago”. More than 500 exhibitors had already made bookings for the fair, to be held in Cologne from 9 to 11 March 2011. Koelnmesse considered this to be a good result at that juncture. The participants will display products and services in the following segments: tools, locks and fittings, DIY, ironmongery and wire products, fastenings, outdoor furniture, garden tools, barbecues, camping articles, sporting goods and games, and leisure equipment. Among the visitors expected to attend are buyers from a variety of retail and wholesale organisations in Europe and North America. The fair organisers, in cooperation with the Home Improvement Industry President’s Council, are to stage their “Buying Day” matchmaking programme on the second day of the fair. Menards, an American home improvement retailer, has already announced its intention to participate. Download: