Door Industry Journal - Winter 2019

THE door industry journal winter 2019 Locks & Building Hardware Also online at: www.dijonline.co.uk Europe’s Leading Security Trade Show - MLA Expo - To Return in 2021 After Record Event This Year Record numbers of attendees visited this year’s MLA Expo hosted at the International Centre, Telford from 4 – 6 October. The 20th anniversary event, hosted by the Master Locksmith Association and sponsored by DOM-UK, was hailed as the most successful to date with a 32% rise in visitor numbers. The biennial trade show is Europe’s premier exhibition for the locksmith and security industry. Initial figures show that the three-day exhibition attracted over 3,500 attendees from across Europe, with an unprecedented sell-out of many of the 80 training courses held during the event. Over 100 lock manufacturers, locksmith tool and security product suppliers exhibited across two exhibition halls at the venue. Demonstrations, training courses, seminars and new product launches were all held during the event with special MLA Expo deals available for delegates. Attendees travelled from across Europe to attend the show which received overwhelmingly positive feedback from delegates. Feedback showed that delegates appreciated the professionalism of the event and understood the importance and value in attending to see and hear about the latest industry trends and product innovations as well as attending discussions and presentations on the issues affecting the industry. Organisers, the Master Locksmiths Association, are already planning to bring the MLA Expo back in 2021 and are working closely with the Auto Locksmiths Association who collaborate with their Auto Locksmith exhibition area called ‘The Garage’ which showcases products and services specific to the auto- locksmithing industry. A dedicated exhibition hall is devoted to The Garage, which houses an auto locksmith seminar arena and on-vehicle training area. Historically, the MLA Expo started life as a small event hosted in hotels, it has grown significantly over the past 20 years and is now the largest Locksmith and Security event of its kind in Europe, requiring a purpose-built exhibition venue of 6000+ square metres to accommodate the number of exhibitors and visitors who attend. Some of the feedback from delegates and exhibitors included: ABS Avocet, Exhibitor: “We worked the best show ever with quality visitors throughout the 3 days and exceptional organisation in all areas. Well done to the MLA Team.” One exhibitor, Avocet ABS said: “We worked the best show ever with quality visitors throughout the 3 days. Exceptional organisation in all areas, no dramas, impressive exhibitor list, massive opportunities for the ABS Brands, stand size & selling platform were all perfect. We had an open house style and welcomed so many visitors from the Middle East and Europe. Big thanks to all of our loyal dealers for sharing, buying and supporting the brand. Well done MLA Team, you should be exceptionally proud…..what a team MLA.” Locksmith delegate P. Collins said: “A great show, all I needed in one place, first class training and meeting my colleagues and fellow Professionals, bring on 2021.” A visiting lock manufacturer commented: Another lock manufacturer who attended as a visitor commented on how large, professional and busy the show was and that next time they would be back as an exhibitor. 118