Brought to you by Composites UK and Fluency Marketing, the International Composites Summit (ICS) is the UK's only exhibition focused solely on the composites market. Taking place on 8-9 September 2021 at the ILEC Conference Centre, London, ICS will bring companies together to address the worldwide opportunities for sales and growth in the composites sector required to help deliver the climate change targets set out in the green agenda for every Nation.
Q) What are the reasons for holding an ‘international’ event like ICS?
The International Composites Summit is the UK's only exhibition focused solely on the composites market. Following discussions with industry, it was clear that there was room for a specialised composites event. We felt this became more important than ever due to the recent global pandemic.
Q) What do you plan to do differently to existing composites-related tradeshows and why should people attend?
We have decided to make ICS really accessible to all companies in the industry. We have Pods which are great for companies that want to try exhibiting for the first time, or those that want to be part of the growing composites story.
Q) Can you comment on the event’s predicted attendance, stand space sold, value and how it will perform in the post-pandemic climate?
We expect 70+ exhibitors and have received a very good response so far. I think people are pleased to see something on this scale that is focusing on the composites industry and, in addition, the companies that want to buy from the industry. Both Composites UK and Fluency Marketing know the industry well, and this event will make the best use of this.
Q) What is on the agenda for the ICS and what kinds of innovations can visitors expect to see throughout the event?
We will have a free-to-attend open forum running on both days of the show. Whilst we are looking forward to sharing the programme, it is currently in development. However, we can promise hot topics such as market trends, supply chain complexity, flexibility and innovation, sustainability, international trade and more.
Q) What is Fluency and Composites UK doing together to help various exhibitors, delegations and VIPs to meet and see each other?
We are listening to attendees to make sure we get the most relevant audience, to help make this a success. We have created packages for every budget, ensuring no one feels they can’t join the exhibitor ladder. We are also helping companies to advertise the fact that they are at the show.
Q) Would you say that Fluency and Composites UK’s long-standing personal partnerships and relationships with the industry provide the glue that will make this show a success?
Absolutely. We live and breathe the composites industry and we have a passion for its success. This event will benefit from both companies working together, helping us give something back to the industry and to support its growth.
Q) Are tradeshows still the right way to meet up generate business? What about ‘virtual’ tradeshows as a means of a way forward?
There is an inherent need to be with people. That hasn’t gone away. We are now ready to safely move on and to do business face-to-face, to meet new and old friends, and to get the industry back on track. Virtual tradeshows have not worked. We are human and we live for personal interaction. We love to smile with each other, and this desire hasn’t gone away.
Q) Finally, $64 million dollar question: just how important is ICS for the future of the UK composites industry?
I think it is a higher value than that! We need a UK-focused show – it’s an important industry that will continue to grow, and we will provide the ideal place for companies to do just that – grow!
