With a reduction in exhibitors, but sustained visitor numbers, the fifth edition of the Asia Bike trade show ended in Nanjing on Monday 12 October. A total of 433 (2014: 487) brands, of which 72% were international, presented their product innovations across over 40,000 square meters of exhibition space at the trade show for sports and luxury bicycles.
A total of 13,224 visitors – 8,866 trade visitors and 4,358 bike fans on public day – got a comprehensive overview of the market during the four days of the event, which is a sister show to the world’s largest bike expo, Eurobike.
In addition to the strong visitor numbers, the organisers point to the high quality of the dealers in attendance, representing every Chinese province and many foreign countries. Stefan Reisinger, Eurobike Head at Messe Friedrichshafen, was pleased with the latest edition of Asia Bike.
“The Asia Bike 2015 stood out and really sent a signal in a challenging market environment, showing that we are on the right path with our trade show concept in China,” Reisinger said. “We focus on uncompromising quality – at the exhibitor and visitor ends, in terms of a fair value for your money, and concerning individualized support for our customers and partners – and it’s paying off.”
“The rates of growth of the Chinese bicycle market have slowed in comparison to last year,” said Project Director Richard Li. “This is also reflected in the visitor numbers to the Asia Bike 2015 – we saw a somewhat lower increase in visitors than we have had before. But exhibitor feedback makes it clear: the quality of visitors was especially impressive on both trade visitor days and the show is highly regarded for its organization and level of service.
“Asia Bike is considered an indicator for the Chinese bicycle industry and we are convinced that this market will continue to grow in the future.”
Jack Oortwijn, Editor in Chief of the industry publication Bike Europe, agreed. “My impression of the show is that it is done to a very high standard. I have been to other trade shows in China and Asia Bike really stands out in comparison.
“When you take a look at the high level of the presentations and stands, these correspond to European standards. The show is a real highlight and can be favourably compared to its sister trade show, Eurobike in Friedrichshafen [Germany].”
Oortwijn continued, “The future of Asia Bike depends on what will happen in the Chinese market in the future. But one thing is clear: the Chinese market will continue to develop.”
Asia Bike’s accompanying program was also reported t be popular with exhibitors and visitors, and featured new elements such as a Triathlon Village, individual product designs, cycling events and a Club Village.
Although there was rain on Demo Day on the day before the show, ‘the enthusiasm displayed by visitors and cyclists was surprisingly high.’
According to a visitor survey, 85% of visitors were pleased with Asia Bike 2015 and 98% expressed their intention to attend the sixth edition of Asia Bike. This will take place from 13-15 September 2016, with Demo Day being held on 12 September 2016.
