Comment by BVAA CEO Rob Bartlett

A very firm favourite in BVAA’s external exhibitions programme has always been the Valve World Expo in Dusseldorf. 

One of my priorities when I first arrived at BVAA was to re-kindle our Association’s commitment to Valve World participation, at that time held in Maastricht. 

British Valve industry representation at one of the few valve industry-specific gatherings of size globally seemed a complete no-brainer to me, especially with the event being virtually on our doorstep. 

For several years I joyfully trooped off with literally tons of member-literature to set up a small booth, and advise visitors on the benefits of dealing with British suppliers of valves and related products.

Mercifully modern technology soon negated the need for all that paper!  However, I made some great friends as a result of attending the show, and most particularly with Bill Sandler, my opposite number at the VMA.  We co-operated together on our participation for many years.

The BIG change however came with the transfer of the expo to Messe Dusseldorf, who engaged enthusiastically with us.  All parties were keen for us to grow our presence, putting a great deal of support in place to make that possible, and very soon our BVAA Group Stand became a recognized focal point in the much-improved expo.  Scores of BVAA members and guests attend every year, and the stand has become a virtual ‘British Embassy’ for the duration of the show.

As well as a very professional expo, one of the highlights each year is the fabulous ‘British Reception’ - again generously supported by the Messe – and I am delighted this will again take place in the evening of the first day of the exhibition.

It’s been a challenging few years for all exhibitions in the post-Covid era, not helped by a global energy crisis layered on top.  Nevertheless, attendance at exhibitions is not only a joyful experience, but also vital for cementing relations, finding the latest innovations and new players in the market.  This really is a ‘must-attend’ event for anyone in our industry.

Personally, I can’t wait, and I hope our many readers will drop by and see the BVAA Team on stand D31 in Hall 1!

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