StocExpo Europe 2017 Hailed a Major Success

StocExpo Europe 2017, the world’s leading international event for the tank terminal industry, celebrated a triumphant return to Rotterdam last month. The show, which successfully launched the inaugural Tank Storage Awards, and unveiled a brand-new conference format, has been hailed a massive success, with an 8 per cent increase in visitor numbers since the 2016 edition in Antwerp.

Nick Powell, Divisional Director for the Easyfairs StocExpo &Tank Storage Portfolio, commented: “What a show. It doesn’t seem possible to have fitted so much into just three days, but somehow, we managed it. By every measure, we had our most successful show to date. We increased visitor numbers, featured over 200 internationally renowned suppliers, hosted over 16 hours of educational content in our revamped conference programme, and had nearly two-thirds of exhibitors rebook for next year. I am thrilled with the level of interest from the industry, and the obvious desire for a show like this. We now move onto Dubai for StocExpo Middle East Africa where we expect to see the same level of success.”

Delegates were treated to a new conference format designed to boost networking. All sessions started with ‘speed networking’, maximising networking opportunities with industry peers. On top of this it featured seven expert panel sessions, hosting over 30 speakers from oil majors, tank terminals and financial institutions. Speaker, Luis Sala, Managing Director at TEPSA, commented on the new conference format: “It is the best programme in Europe focussed on the terminal business.”

Visitors to the Ahoy, Rotterdam, were provided with unique access to over 200 leading suppliers, partners and industry associations, spanning the entire bulk liquid spectrum. With nearly 50 percent of the show floor launching new products to the market, there was plenty to see and discuss. The show also introduced a new smart badge system, which enabled visitors to register their interest in an exhibitor’s stand, and then receive a summary email at the end of each day with links to the products and services, thus eliminating the need to carry around heavy brochures.

Visitor, Tony Woodward, Operations Manager at Oikos Storage Limited, explained why he felt the 2017 edition of StocExpo Europe was such a triumph: “It was a well-organised event, and the new ‘smart badge’ touch and go system is excellent. The conference was very good, and the venue has great facilities.”

Alwin Held, CEO at Tripl-A Projects, agreed: “I support start-ups in the tank industry and search for innovative ideas. StocExpo Europe was a good show and great for networking.”

The inaugural Global Tank Storage Awards ceremony was held at the end of day two of the show, taking place at the Floating Pavilion. It celebrated the achievements of terminal operators, ports, equipment suppliers and individuals making a difference in the bulk liquid sector. Loadtec Engineered Systems took home ‘Best Technology Provider’, LBC Cepsa won ‘Most Efficient Storage Terminal’, ‘Individual Achievement’ went to Ellen Ruhotas, Managing Director at Ratio Group, and Elios by Flyability was crowned ‘Most Innovative Technology’.

The sold-out ceremony and gala dinner has received critical acclaim from its 180 attendees. Thomas Overbeck, CEO at Timm Elektronik, praised the debut Awards, saying: “Professional organisation, a knowledgeable audience and highly qualified judges made this event high scale, and gave the award winners good recognition and broad acceptance for their individual products and performances. It was an impressive event.”

Other show floor activity included the ‘Best in Show’ awards, designed to recognise StocExpo Europe exhibitors. It saw Agidens pick up the award for Best Stand, Emerson Automation Solutions collect the award for Best Entertainment for their Easter chicken themed party, whilst Implico was selected for Best Pre-Show Marketing Campaign.

Exhibitor, John Delaney, VP at CST Covers, commented on his company’s show experience. “StocExpo Europe had good attendees, with meaningful questions and a genuine interest. It was successful for us, as we have some great meetings and interest out of it.”

Sonia Grijpstra-Muir, Owner at Ragworm by Jetset Hydro International, agreed: “StocExpo Europe 2017 proved yet again to be worthwhile exhibiting at. New connections were made, so compliments to the organisers. See you all next year!”

The next StocExpo Europe will take place at the Ahoy Rotterdam on 20-22 March 2018. For more information please contact Divisional Director Nick Powell on +44 (0)20 3196 4301 or at [email protected]