Hi Everybody,
Its me - the old fart on the Hunter Systems stand. Now what's all this cr..p coming from the mouths of so called manufacturers/Traders who were more than pleased to be going to the Beale show when times were good and when they were creaming a damned good living from the exhibitors pockets. Also, the exhibitors enjoyed the shows - How many people remember Richard Howard putting his hand in his own pocket and putting on a damned good fireworks display worthy of the New Year celebrations!!
Ok, the show has gone down hill in the last few years and we know why. Myself, Ron Dean and some of the major manufactures have spent a long time chatting to Richard Howard on ways to bring the show back to health and one of the ways is to promote - improve and put some faith back into doing it. Not winge because it has taken a beating.
Myself and Ron and several other reputable Manufacturers who have been in business for many years and have seen many shows go to the wall even when there was no recession. Shows go down mainly due to the show going out of balance. A show requires several key elements - A good Organiser - Trade - Exhibitors - public. If one or more of the elements drop down then the apple cart is tipped. This has happened to many good shows and Beale is heading that way.
Unless of course the Trade attend - the exhibitors attend followed by the public. Mix them all up and you if you are lucky - you have a good show!
Hands up all who enjoyed the Beale show of old. Hands up all who have said "that was a cracking show and I will go again" Hands up all who said "That was a good show, I made a lot of money and will be back next year"
Yes, I know Richard is out on a limb this year but it takes all of the elements to make the show, so please don't dismiss it and become one of those elements who only think of themselves and winge when the going gets tough. Believe me, life is too short.
Maybe, we will see each other at Child Beale. REMEMBER A really good venue plus Free Camping and yes - a free stand to the trade this year. So no winging ok? To all of the trade - If you are not prepared to put something in - don't winge about it - don't bother to go - you are not needed or wanted.
Nuff said, I am going to get my mug of cocoa!
Sermon over!
Graham Sheppard (Past Chairman of the MMMA)
Late News. I have heard on the grapevine that the Beale Centre will be available to the trade - and not outside as was spoken about before.