The GIMA Buyer Connect event has become one of the most highly-anticipated parts of Glee’s programme of content. This year is set to be no different as the trade association confirms the return of these special 10-minute speed networking sessions.
Taking place on all three days of Glee, within the GIMA Business Lounge’s new location within Hall 6, GIMA Buyer Connect will bring together a host of buyers, suppliers and manufacturers to forge new relationship for the coming season and will enable retailers to source products they might have missed around the exhibition. Key retailers already confirmed for the 2018 event includes Crocus, Great Western Partnership, Perrywood Garden Centre, JTF Whoesale, Decco, QVC, Kingfisher Group, and Longacres Garden Centre.
Speaking about their involvement in Buyer Connect 2017, Caroline Linger, Crocus.co.uk Head of Buying, said: “I have been involved in Buyer Connect on several occasions and have always found it fun and very useful. It enables retailers to find new and different products and suppliers that may be otherwise missed, and in a unique way! The Crocus team will be attending this year.”
Neil Grant, Managing Director of Ferndale Garden Centre added: “GIMA Buyer Connect is a quick and easy way to build new relationships with exciting and emerging brands. Having taken part in the 2017 event I can honestly say it was the best two hours spent at Glee. I was able to meet with a whole range of suppliers and manufacturers, many of whom I would not have seen had it not been for Buyer Connect. I strongly urge any interested parties to register their interest quickly.”
Vicky Nuttall, GIMA Director, said: “Buyer Connect is a perfect example of the kind of activities that we can support our members with. One of our roles as a trade association is to connect retailers and suppliers, so events such as Buyer Connect have become an even more essential part of our offering in the face of a fast-changing marketplace. We are here to respond to, and support, our members’ needs so we urge any retailer that is interested in our ‘meet the buyer’ events to get in touch.
Glee Event Director, Matthew Mein, added: “Events such as Buyer Connect are a really important part of Glee’s offering, and represent a great opportunity for all of those in the supply chain to network and build new professional relationships. We appreciate GIMA’s continued efforts in bringing Buyer Connect to Glee each year and look forward to seeing which UK and international brands participate in 2018.”
Suppliers and manufacturers who would like to participate in the 2018 GIMA Buyer Connect are invited to register their involvement. To confirm your interest, simply visit http://gima.org.uk/buyer-connect/ or email info@gima.org.uk
Ends
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About ITE Group plc
ITE Group plc was founded in 1991 and is now one of the world’s leading organisers of international exhibitions and conferences.
ITE Group’s strategic vision is to create the world’s leading portfolio of content-driven, must-attend events delivering an outstanding experience and ROI for our customers. The Group recently launched its Transformation & Growth (TAG) programme, which is designed to transform the Company from a geographic-led business to a product-led business that focuses on market-leading events, wherever they are in the world. ITE strives to run the best shows and offer the best service to its customers throughout the world regardless of location. By putting exhibitors and visitors at the heart of everything we do, we plan to drive sustainable growth for our shareholders.
ITE Group is a public limited company and has been listed on the main market of the London Stock Exchange since 1998.