Innovation Awards’ winners switched on
March 10, 2017President’s Ball back in its traditional home
March 10, 2017The Hardware Show 2017 broke all records with over 2,000 visitors in attendance at the RDS Simmonscourt last weekend. The biggest trade expo of its kind in Ireland, drawing just under 1200 visitors made up of hardware stores and builders merchants on its first day – making it the best attended event in its history.
Over the two days of the expo, the sold-out trade event was expected to do deals in excess of €20 million among the 160+ exhibitors.
The Show focuses on four key product areas; HOME – GARDEN – BUILD – HARDWARE/DIY, mirroring the commercial layout and content of successful merchant stores.
Speaking at the opening of the trade show, Annemarie Harte, CEO of Hardware Association Ireland says the record attendance mirrors a defined period of confidence and growth in the sector; “After a bruising recession, the impact of which is still being felt among many DIY retailers and builders merchants outside of Dublin, the sector is regaining confidence. 2016 was a solid performing year, with our monthy Hardware Association Ireland Business Index showing a 10% increase in revenue among hardware/DIY retailers and builders merchants, compared to 2015.
“While retailers and merchants remain cautious, the first morning of the Hardware Show 2017 has been marked by strong trading, with many exhibitors experiencing brisk sales and huge interest. A real area of interest this year is digital e-commerce sales, with a focus on practical demonstrations and business upskilling that will benefit hardware retailers and builders merchants. The addition of Google Garage and similar-style demonstrations has been really well received, and as an association we’re keen to help our members address skills and knowledge gaps around online business to help them compete with the bigger brands and international franchises who really dominate online.”
