Buying and marketing group Euronics has heralded the inaugural Euronics Showcase a success, with more than 94% of members represented.
Stuart Cook, the group’s chief executive, commented on the results of the Euronics Showcase 2012: “This is an incredible result; the new Euronics Showcase format has emphatically worked. I am very grateful to the members for attending the Euronics Showcase, because without the members, we don’t have a show. The feedback from members is that there is business out there, although margins are under pressure, but our members are getting down and doing the business.”
More than 50 suppliers exhibited their products and services at the buying group’s inaugural Spring show at the NEC in Birmingham. “The suppliers have surpassed themselves again, with huge investments and great theatre on their stands – we have raised the bar, again, and this year’s show is now the benchmark for the Euronics Showcase moving forward,” said Mr Cook.
Mr Cook also reported that some 50 prospective Euronics members had attended this year’s Euronics Showcase. “We’ve had some really positive meetings with those guys, who have now seen what we are all about – they can see the benefits and I’d be very surprised if we didn’t sign up the majority of them.”
Mr Cook pointed out that Euronics welcomes approaches from brands wanting to deal with independent electrical specialists. “The door is wide open to brands that have a clear channel strategy. Support us and we will support you.”
Recognising the significant investment made by suppliers at this year’s Euronics Showcase, the group presented two awards. The award for best in show was presented to the Electrolux Group; Samsung scooped the special recognition award “for driving technology”.
Hayley Butler, national sales manager at the Electrolux Group, said: “We are absolutely delighted and thrilled to have won this prestigious award. We have had a lot of support and we are over the moon. This is one of the best shows we have had ever.”
Colin Rodgers, Samsung’s general manager for independents, said: “This has been the best CIH show that Samsung has attended. We’ve had the most positive response to our new technologies. We are delighted to have given Smart interaction and demonstrations to so many retailers, who we know will go out and promote it to the consumer in the right way.”
