While the UK economy has improved, we're still facing challenges such as rising interest rates. However, the plant hire sector remains strong, continues to do well and is seeing plenty of positive activity. This is great news for everyone involved, from the hire market to the various sectors rely on it. The push for net zero continues to gather pace, and there's a clear increase in interest and investment in alternative energy sources, sustainable solutions and new technologies that promise to revolutionise the way we do business.

Looking back to the recent 'Kick-Off' meeting at CBS Arena in September, there's already a buzz about the 2024 show. 96% of the stands have now been sold and just six stands remain for sale. A total of 24 first-time exhibitors will be joining the show in 2024, pushing the boundaries of innovation and ensuring an ever-changing mix of products to tempt and tantalise EHS visitors. The Kick-Off meeting also saw a great mix of regulars and new faces, all eager to get a piece of the action and do some networking.

Chris Moore, the Show’s Publishing and Events Director, talked about how well previous shows had done and how the 2024 event is already on track to be even better. He mentioned, “Working together made the 2023 show brilliant, and we’re aiming to do it again.” He's also been getting a steady stream of enquiries from top suppliers, suggesting that we're headed for a fully booked show.

Chris added “2023 was a record-breaking year with the show witnessing an overwhelming attendance of over 2,000 hire professionals, a testament to the resilience of the compact plant hire and equipment industry even amidst economic challenges.

The 2023 show set a benchmark, with collaboration at its heart. We anticipate an even bigger and better event in 2024."

Chris concluded his announcement by encouraging exhibitors to make the most of the event and highlighted the networking opportunities available for attendees.

One of the highlights for 2024 will be the Innovation Trail. Peter Haddock from Content with Media will be back, doing live interviews on the stands that will be shared on social media channels. The focus will be on new tech, sustainability and anything that makes tasks easier, safer or more environmentally friendly. Peter is also planning to create a live blog, which was a big hit at the 2022 event.

Before the main show, there are a couple of ‘Road Show’ events. The next one is on October 24th, from 2 pm to 7 pm at the Marriott in Glasgow, G3 8RR. After that, we have the brand-new ‘Wales & West’ roadshow on November 22^nd. Taking place at the Coldra Court Hotel in Newport, NP18 2LX, it is ideally located for Welsh and west country-based hirers. However, both events are relaxed and friendly events, they’re great for networking and catching up with hire colleagues and forging new connections, and those famous ‘show-only deals’ are always appreciated.

Circle 14th and 15th February 2024 on your calendar and join us at the Coventry Building Society Arena. The 2024 show is shaping up to be fantastic, and with Chris Moore and the team leading the way, expectations are high.

For more details on the show and a full exhibitor list, visit www.executivehireshow.co.uk.