Facilities Show had one of its most successful years yet in 2019, consolidating its status as a leading global event for cleaning and facilities managers with further visitor growth.
Taking place from 18-20 June at ExCel London, in association with the Institute of Workplace and Facilities Management, it demonstrated a 3% visitor growth increase on 2018, continuing a three-year upward trend.
35% of visitors were C-suite executives, heads of department, directors or owners, representing a combined annual purchasing budget of £9.2bn. 40% of total attendees had the responsibility to authorise or make a purchase, making the event ideal for businesses showcasing their innovative products and services. Visitors came from 62 different countries and a wide variety of industries including the construction and property sector.
282 exhibitors showcased over 2,000 solutions, products and services across all FM vertical sectors including workplace technology, cleaning, health and wellbeing, recycling and waste management and washroom space. Launches included a new micro scrubber dryer from Vaclensa, who used virtual reality to demonstrate product benefits.
Sustainability was a key message, with the Bywaters stand focused on reducing single-use plastics through innovative recycling solutions. Both Vaclensa and Tennant showcased cleaning machines made from recycled plastic. Streamline Systems displayed its new electric vehicle, with a high-pressure washing, skid mounted system, designed to clean at height in areas with emission zones, such as central London.
Facilities Show 2019 helped connect visitors with ideas and developments shaping the profession, with 100 continuing professional development (CPD) accredited seminars, presentations and case studies.
The Inspirational Speaker Series drew extensive footfall as the show welcomed 2019’s keynote speakers: journalist and broadcaster Steph McGovern, ‘Eddie the Eagle’ Michael Edwards, and rugby legend Jonny Wilkinson. Each shared their personal stories of courage, resilience and breaking the mould.
New for 2019, the Smart Buildings Expo showcased transformative technology and featured a 196m² working replica of a smart office building, created in partnership with Master Systems Integrators, Vanti. The Workplace Wellbeing Show, another new addition, included the Workplace Wellbeing Theatre, which hosted speakers and panels who discussed key ideas and developments within wellbeing.
Event Director Chris Edwards said: “Facilities Show will continue to evolve, based on visitor feedback to better reflect the changing face of the profession. New features and seminars will be added, building on the success of this year’s new areas including the Smart Buildings Expo and the Workplace Wellbeing Show. This will ensure Facilities Show remains a critical destination for FM and workplace professionals, continuing its upward trend.”
Facilities Show will return to ExCeL London in 2020 at the earlier date of 19-21 May.
