With 31,264 trade visitors, Hortiflorexpo IPM Shanghai held from 10-12 May 2017 at the Shanghai New International Expo Center, registered a 57 per cent rise in participation
According to the organizers this is a testimony to the fact that the Chinese horticultural market is booming and that the home gardening trend has arrived in the middle class.
“Just like our exhibitors and visitors, we are enthusiastic about this year’s event. The figures speak for themselves. The standard of living of the Chinese population has altered enormously. More money is being spent on flowers and plants. The green sector in general and Hortiflorexpo IPM as its most important horticultural fair in China in particular are profiting from this,” said Oliver P Kuhrt, CEO of Messe Essen.
Kuhrt pointed out that the cooperation between the China Flower Association, Shanghai Intex Exhibition Co Ltd, China Great Wall International Exhibition and Messe Essen is bearing fruit. “Two fair brands have grown together here and are now reaping successes together," he said.
On an area of over 37,000 sq m, 795 exhibitors from 30 countries showcased their products and services in the plants, technology, floristry and garden features areas.
The supporting programme at the event addressed topical subjects: in addition to a guided horticultural tour on the day before the fair, specialist seminars gave insights into innovative technologies, modern greenhouses and new plant breeds. In live shows, a top-class German florist demonstrated floral design on the highest level.
German exhibitors presented themselves on a joint booth promoted by the Federal Ministry of Food and Agriculture. A total of 13 firms showed quality products under the "Made in Germany" tag. Other official national participations introduced themselves from the following nations: Colombia, Ecuador, France, Japan, Korea, Netherlands, Taiwan and Thailand.
Steven Anderson, CEO of Mayer GmbH, Germany, who participated in the event said,“For us, the fair was a complete success! We were able to hold a lot of interesting discussions and improve our understanding of the needs of the Chinese market. The new contacts established will help our firm to continue to participate in the growth of this exciting market. Today, we are already looking forward to next year's fair in Peking.”
Hortiflorexpo IPM 2018 will take place in Peking, in the China New International Exhibition Centre from 10 -12 May 2018.
