I love visiting PLASA as I get to see a lot of very big toys, admittedly most of which I’ll never get to use however, in the same way that Formula One cars feature developments which later appear on road cars, the kit I buy is often informed by what I see at PLASA. Plus, there is actually a surprising amount of very good DJ kit on most stands.
And then you have the reason I like to attend as many shows and exhibitions as I can – the networking. Even if it’s just a quick chat, meeting up with industry colleagues is my favourite thing to do. That was the main reason that Steve and I decided to bring Photobooth Expo over from Las Vegas. There just wasn’t anything happening in the photo booth industry which seemed a shame.
I’ve previously written about why photo booths fit so nicely with my DJ business. And so it proved at PBX Europe. Lots and lots of DJs were there, many of whom run booths alongside their DJ businesses. Some don’t, but still went for the same reasons I go to PLASA. To see what’s happening, meet up with colleagues and at least be informed of current trends.
I’ll admit that I lost a lot of sleep the night before opening day. I imagined that no-one would turn up, the seminar room would be empty and that despite breaking our ticket sales target we’d have to explain ourselves to Rob Savickis, the owner of the PBX brand. But of course, I needn’t have worried.
The seminars were packed, there was a fantastic buzz on the trade floor, and overall the first ever Photobooth Expo Europe was a smash hit. I’d like my eternal gratitude for Rob’s faith, Steve’s hard work and diligence, and also the humbling support of all those I know in both the DJ and photo booth world to go on record. See you all at PBX London 2024!
On to October, and BPM – The Show for DJs. I was really happy to see TeeJai Hayter in attendance. Teejai had never been to any BPM show, I was keen to hear the views of someone who is a very experienced DJ, but who is only just starting to get out to shows and exhibitions. To hear his enthusiastic response was gratifying. So much so, I asked him to produce this year’s BPM report. It’s a fabulous extended article and he really captures the essence of a DJ show.
What I’ve learned over the last few months is that any industry gathering, no matter how loosely connected to the DJ world, is worth attending. I had conversations at every one of these three shows that will develop into exciting new initiatives. Indeed, PBX Europe would never have happened had I not taken the time out to go and see both Mobile Beat and PBX International, in Las Vegas.
So, what will 2024 look like for me and my business? You guessed it, even more trade shows. I hope to bump in to you at one of them. I also hope the Christmas season goes as smoothly as possible for you, and that you celebrate the new year in style, whether working or not.
Bring on 2024!
The full review can be found in Pro Mobile Issue 122, Page 6.