Amusement Trades Exhibition International
New players give ATEI extra vitality

ATEI (Amusement Trades Exhibition International) is aiming to break through the 300-exhibitor barrier for the first time in its history in January 2005. The London-based show has been steadily increasing its numbers in recent years and in 2004 reached an all-time high of 294 companies from 26 nations, 41.8 per cent of which (123) were based outside the UK.

A significant proportion of the growth has been through new companies joining the showcase, as ATE sales manager Karen Cooke explains: “Over the last five years we have welcomed more than 60 first-time exhibitors at each show, representing between 22 and 26 per cent of the total number of companies on the exhibition floor. Even more significant is the number who decide to return following a successful debut: in 2004 ATEI not only welcomed 66 new exhibitors but also hosted 24 (34.8%) of the previous year's 69 debutants. The rate of first-time exhibitor returns has already reached the same level for 2005 with 23 out of 66 having booked their space for next January's show.”

Around 200 companies had confirmed their stand space for ATEI 2005 by the beginning of July, including eight brand new companies. The octet, representing the first wave of next year's new entrants, comprises Custom Snooker, Ealing Electronics, Reflex Gaming and Unique Gifts (UK), Gamaco and Mr. Edd (Belgium), Gamesystem (Poland) and Odrex (Ukraine).

Karen Cooke concluded: “A continually evolving selection of new suppliers is good news for any exhibition, or indeed any industry. New companies breed new ideas and with such a healthy supply of new blood ATEI continues to offer the best place to find innovation in the global amusement industry.”

ATEI takes place at Earls Court 1, London on 25-27 January 2005. For more information visit www.ATEOnline.co.uk/ATEI or email Karen Cooke (kcooke@ateonline.co.uk).