Source: Europa Press
Alimentaria 2010 closed its doors last Friday with a provisional figure of 140,542 professionals, a volume which is 8% higher than the initial forecast, and 4,000 exhibiting companies, said Alimentaria Exhibitions
These figures are especially important considering the current economic and trade show environment. Following a week of intense trade show activity at Fira de Barcelona's Gran VÃa venue, Alimentaria defended its status as the benchmark Spanish event for the agri-food sector and its position among the top three most important food and drink trade shows in the world.
According to its organizers, Alimentaria 2010 Food meant an "injection of optimism" for a sector of great economic importance in the future.
The participating companies, about 4,000 firms from 75 countries have positively assessed the large influx of international professionals, over 36,000 people from 155 countries, 9% more than originally planned.
Josep LluÃs Bonet, chairman of Alimentaria and Fira de Barcelona, emphasised that Alimentaria 2010 has more than fulfilled expectations, thanks to a great deal of work and two years of preparation. 'It's impossible to improvise a success such as this,' he said, after indicating his satisfaction with how the show went at an edition which was anticipated to be 'especially decisive'. 'Alimentaria has demonstrated the strength and energy of its trade show model, as well as that of a sector which is strategic for the country's economy,' Bonet underscored.
Mr. Bonet appreciated the support and the presence of the Prince of Asturias, who inaugurated Alimentaria’s 18th edition accompanied by the Minister for Environment and Rural and Marine Affairs, Elena Espinosa, President of the Generalitat, José Montilla,
At the end of the event, all attendees were invited to taste and enjoy the various dishes prepared by D. Marc Claverol, chef of the Restaurant BroadBar of Barcelona.
More than 8,000 meetings have taken place at Alimentaria 2010 Barcelona.