Once again proving that it’s the definitive platform for its 145+ exhibitors to showcase their industrial technology solutions, the KwaZulu-Natal Industrial Technology Exhibition (KITE) attracted a captive audience of over 4 200 industry decision makers in late July.

Nick Sarnadas, portfolio director at Specialised Exhibitions Montgomery, explains that the exhibition’s success stems from its multi-layered approach to promoting its diverse exhibitor base.

“Obviously, the exhibition stands take centre stage. The interactive stands provide the visitors with an opportunity to experience the best-of-breed industrial technology solutions in the KZN region, all under one roof. Not only does this eliminate the hassle of having to source every single solution from a variety of suppliers who may be scattered all over the province, but it also places visitors in a position where they have access to live demonstrations on a wide variety of products and services. In addition, the event provides peer-to-peer and exhibitor-to-visitor networking opportunities not found elsewhere.”

In addition to the exhibition, various educational and training opportunities were available to the visitors. The free-to-attend SAIMechE Seminar Theatre retained its popularity with 18 highly-informative sessions from the well-versed speakers. The MESA Special Interest Group allowed a concentrated group of attendees to find out more about ‘Data Matters: Triple Vision– Hindsight, Insight and Foresight’. The LEEASA conference was well attended by the 60 delegates, who received information on the latest technology, trends and regulations within the lifting industry.

For the first time, the exhibition hosted the Artisan Training Zone. Organised by the Artisan Training Institute (ATI), this dedicated area allowed visitors to see artisans demonstrate the trade skills they had learned at the Institute. According to Institute representatives, the interest exhibited by the visitors was very encouraging.

Sarnadas says that the feedback received from both the exhibitors and visitors underlined the success of the event in bringing suppliers and consumers of industrial technology together in a highly positive and productive manner.

“What a fantastic turnout. It was my first time exhibiting at KITE and it has exceeded all my expectations. I’m over the moon,” said Ernie Koopmans of Integration-Services. Similarly, Shaun Botha of G. Fox, was highly satisfied: “What a fantastic show. I can honestly say that the number of decision makers at KITE was unprecedented.”

Long-term exhibitors Beckhoff Automation were equally pleased with the number of high-quality sales leads they received. “KITE fulfills three major goals for us: connect with new customers; discuss new technology with existing customers; and reinforce our brand in the industry,” says the company’s Kenneth McPherson.

The visitors cited the great variety of superior products and services on display at KITE as being a great reason to visit the Expo, with 80% of the attendees making or influencing purchasing decisions. Gansen Chetty from Edison Power KZN said: “We had great exposure to products we normally wouldn’t see. The opportunity to network with new suppliers and potential business partners was a big plus. This was a 100% worthwhile experience.”

“We are thrilled at the response from both the exhibitors and visitors to KITE and we are grateful to the support received from our sponsors, the various representative industry bodies and our partners. We are now in the planning stages for KITE 2021, which will mark 40 years since the show was launched".