Amsterdam, The Netherlands –
Officials in charge of IBC 2009 have released official attendance
figures: 45,547 actual attendees, a seven percent reduction from 2008
figures. Against the challenging backdrop of both the world economic climate and
the downturn in the media broadcasting and technology industry, the
drop of 7 percent in attendance this year is hugely positive, says a
representative.
''IBC is about the quality of the exhibition and the conference,'' says COO Mike Crimp, speaking at a morning press conference. ''And I think you'll be surprised at how well we've done.''
Against the challenging backdrop of both the world economic climate and the downturn in the media broadcasting and technology industry, the drop of 7 percent in attendance this year is hugely positive, says a representative.
IBC provides the opportunity to network with industry peers from around the globe, to promote new thinking, and to create opportunities in the marketplace. It remains vital in the current climate and continues to exhibit a positive image for the future of our industry, adds the representative.
Crimp says: ''We're not just a trade show, but an event where people can see the results of all the hard work in our industry. We call this the IBC content experience.''
At the same time, the exhibition portion of the event boasted more than 1300 exhibitors this year, including new stands from around the world. The new Production Village in Hall 9 also created buzz on the show floor.
IBC has been around for 40 years and has witnessed many economic highs and lows.
The Production Village enabled exhibitors to target their customers -- videographers, film makers, and camera enthusiasts -- and was a hit with visitors and exhibitors, combining a comprehensive collection of the latest technology with professional and exhibitor training sessions on everything from how to shoot in low light conditions to how to shoot the perfect interview.
IBC 2009 featured panel discussions with international students, green debates, discussions on 3D, presentations on the future of sports and news, and a wealth of speakers, with keynote addresses from authorities on a range of topics.
To date, reveals an IBC official, nearly 23,000 square meters of stand space has already been ordered for next year. IBC2010 will be held at the Amsterdam RAI from 9 to 14 September 2010.