LWF fees came from “aggrieved” exhibitors

By Harpers Editorial

Published: 02 May, 2019

The London Wine Fair’s boss has come out in defence of the decision to charge certain visitors to this year’s show, saying the decision came from consultations with “several long-standing exhibitors, who were aggrieved that competitive businesses were not taking a stand yet attending the show en masse with a view to trading”.

The entry fee is one of the key topics surrounding this year’s upcoming fair, which has been introduced by Hannah Tovey in her sophomore effort as the show’s boss.

The measure is part of a move to reinvigorate as well as streamline the visitors who attend.

Tovey said: “We didn’t take this decision lightly, but it was necessary to both protect our exhibitors and also underline the inherent value of the show. The charge will be £60 a day – or £120 for two or three days. Anyone turning up on the day without having pre-registered will also be charged, so it is vital that those wishing to attend do register well in advance.”

She added that the vast majority of visitors will remain unaffected and that all members of the drinks industry will be welcomed.

The sectors of the trade that will be charged include importers – except those with a buying capacity – who have elected not to exhibit and who are considered competition to those companies who do.

Tovey also said she is expecting another boost in visitor numbers for 2019.

Last year there was a “really significant” visitor increase of 17% on the back of a “major investment” in LWF’s database alongside a revised marketing strategy, she said.

This year will see a return of the Education Zone, the UK-focused Drinks Britannia and The Innovation Zone, which launched in 2018 in partnership with Harpers to bring together the world of design, smart technology and social media engagement.

There will also be a “significant new feature area” called Champagne Boulevard.

A cross-section of Champagne maisons, growers and co-operatives will be located in the gallery area which by is invitation only.

The LWF returns to the Olympia from May 20-22.

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