I don't think so in the case of this show, but a couple of years ago when the February NEC show was organised by Ocean Media, their Outdoor Leisure Show ran alongside the Boat and Caravan Show (inclusive ticketing) for the three (if I remember correctly) final days of the six-day show, quite probably for the reason you've mentioned.
I cannot remember that last time I bought anything to do with camping in a brick & mortar shop. It was probably several years ago in Go Outdoors. Everything else, including our present FC was bought Online.
The Web has changed everything and shows like the NEC one is there for people to view and perhaps try out, but most folks will not buy there but go home and search for better deals online.
How those that show there make an money at all I just do not know.
they make money by not being in Argyll, nothing wrong with Argyll but it doesn't have the population densities of, the industrial northeast, the midlands or home counties.
Quote: Originally posted by LobeyDosser on 20/2/2013
Quote: Originally posted by sunshinetours on 20/2/2013
Lovely spot! Too far for us though guessing its Scotland or the Lakes?!
Inheriting an unwanted place can be a problem i can see that
Yes Scotland. I live in the village just north of the "T" jetty. That is the Gareloch which runs north and parallel to Loch Lomond which is in the next glen on the right.
That brings back memories - I learnt to sail there in 1975. It was a lovely place but still close enough to be handy for Glasgow if you really felt the need.
Back to OT
I personally think two shows at the NEC are one to many and it would be better to have a wider range of stands and encourage the tent manufacturers/importers. I would guess that a good proportion of caravanners started out with tents in their younger days and it would be a great way to encourage younger people to take up the lifestyle.
------------- 'A sure cure for sea-sickness is to sit under a tree'
I'm with Arthur. Campers - albeit tents or accessories - were very poorly served and we wish we'd saved our money. caravans, motor homes and fc's all well served. Shan't bother again..we see far more variety and choice at our local camping store.
Quote: Originally posted by arthur.daley on 21/2/2013
Hi Lobey
they make money by not being in Argyll, nothing wrong with Argyll but it doesn't have the population densities of, the industrial northeast, the midlands or home counties.
Most of our camping accessory shops are in and around Glasgow (20 miles away), including the Caravan Show next month at the SCC.
But, like I say, as all the main camping accessory shops are also online, it is better to save your money and forget the shows, unless ofcourse you have reached the age when camping means a park home, a static van or a lodge.
Not been to the show this year, and I seem to remember that it was not on at all at the NEC last year, they had it at Excel in London I think or was that the year before?.
So the last time I went to the February NEC show would have been 2010 and even back then it was only Yeomans who had a tent display, so there was nothing that you could not see regards tents in your local area.
Having said that I still enjoyed the show, and had a great time, even got a free lunch from the staff on the Spanish Tourist board stand who were dishing out Tapas, and there was even a stand giving beer away.
I plan to go next year, instead of the Manchester show.
I agree with others that they should just have the one big show at the NEC each year, even the Manchester show is a waste of effort for the exhibitors imho.