Aquatech China

The inaugural edition of Aquatech China, held from 21 to 23 May 2008 in the Shanghai Mart, was deemed a great success by exhibitors and visitors alike. The international exhibition for process, drinking and waste water hosted over 291 exhibitors, representing all major international and national brands in the industry, and was visited no less than 14,120 times by water professionals from all over the world.The inaugural edition of Aquatech China, held from 21 to 23 May 2008 in the Shanghai Mart, was deemed a great success by exhibitors and visitors alike. The international exhibition for process, drinking and waste water hosted over 291 exhibitors, representing all major international and national brands in the industry, and was visited no less than 14,120 times by water professionals from all over the world.

The event was opened by Tineke Huizinga, the Dutch State Secretary for Transport, Public Works and Water Management. As a mark of respect for the victims of the Sichuan earthquake, a minute’s silence was held and the VIP delegations made a donation to the Chinese Red Cross Foundation (CRCF) to help reconstruction work. This collection was continued during the three days of the event and, combined with the contributions from exhibitors and visitors, raised 1.4 million yuan (approximately 2 million US dollars) for CRCF.

In addition to the stands of 291 exhibitors from 22 countries, Aquatech China offered visitors many other attractions. The ‘Aquastage’ programme of interactive show floor seminars was so popular that it was literally standing room only at all three AquaStages. This dynamic format was appreciated by many exhibitors who were able to showcase their latest technologies. Visitors too were able to make the most of their stay at Aquatech China thanks to this valuable learning moment. And the overall show programme was further augmented by a high-end scientific conference programme organised by the International Water Association (IWA).

“It was excellent to see the show deliver for both exhibitors and visitors,” comments Paddy Young, Senior Product Manager from the Aquatech team. “Working closely with the market we put together an ambitious and complex event marketing plan, including VIP programmes, hosted buyer trips for the industrial and commercial water sectors, and a comprehensive telephone and direct marketing campaign. Combined with the professional way our exhibitors approached the event, we were able to deliver a quality audience that also left very satisfied.”

The show welcomed a strong field of partner trade associations from China and abroad as well. “The close cooperation with these leading associations was very successful and will definitely be continued in the future,” adds William Wang, Project Manager of Aquatech China. “Their members enthusiastically attended the sessions.”

Plans to repeat the show in Shanghai next year, targeting a broader audience from across the Asia-Pacific region, were very well received by exhibitors. Many have already reserved stand space for the next Aquatech China, which will be held in the spring of 2009.