The Independent Hotel Show took place on the 17th and 18th October 2017 at Olympia, London, and what a superb event it was, with some beautiful stands and products showcased. Celebrating six years, the show recognised the passion of independently spirited hoteliers, who drive the hospitality sector forward with their creativity and bringing innovation to develop their guest experiences. This year there were over 30 seminars and interaction workshops. BCFA/Design Insider had a stand at the event and were also an Industry Supporter for the show, and there were 15 BCFA Members exhibiting around the hall.
The show commenced with an eager queue of visitors coming through the doors as soon as the exhibition opened, with opportunities to meet some of the industries most innovative suppliers. It was great to see so many familiar faces visiting the BCFA stand and the team received some positive feedback about the footfall of the event over the two days. We saw some new and innovative features from our members as well as some fantastic collaborations with designers around the show. The atmosphere around Olympia portrayed a feeling of enthusiasm and the event attracted large crowds throughout the exhibition.
Some of the BCFA team took the time to walk around the exhibition and check out some of our member stands. Axminster carpet had a spectacular stand, displaying a beautifully woven carpet across the stand. We were also very impressed with Wychwood’s stand which proved popular with the visitors with some amazing products showcased. Concept Contract also did a collaboration with another member, Roca, to complete their room set and provide an interesting new offer to their clients.
The highlights of the event included the guest speakers, whom attracted huge audiences and a chance to interact and engage with the visitors. The BCFA recommended Harriet Forde, Interior Designer, to the organisers to present her ‘Perfect Hotel Bedroom’ concept live at the show, and Harriet was also one of the speakers on the panel, it was encouraging to see so many people enjoying the talk. To visualise what was needed for the room, Harriet came up with an imaginary couple who were the personification of the target audience taken from a survey, which was a poll for 2,000 hotel guests to determine their preferences which inspired the final concept. The couple “Pete and Sara Dixon” are in their mid- 40’s, have children, but are staying on a night out in London. Harriet also included BCFA members products on her installation at the show. To read ‘The Perfect Hotel Bedroom’ report, featuring a Q&A with Harriet Forde, click here.
Overall, another successful event with a great turnout and some thought provoking stands and speakers at the show. We look forward to next year!
Check out some of the BCFA member stand images below…
