FIAA 2012 receives more than encouraging response

The 11th edition of the International Bus and Coach Trade Fair (FIAA) held in Madrid, Spain, during October 23-26, received overwhelming response.

The fair which was opened by Ms. Ana Pastor, Public Works Minister of Spain, attracted participation by 181 vehicle and coach builders and had representatives from the bus and coach supply industry for components, accessories and services from 18 countries.

The show really proved an attractive platform for presentation of numerous innovations and latest developments together with proposals to improve design, safety, efficiency and technology.

The IFEMA-organised biennial fair, which celebrated its 20th anniversary with a commemorative exhibition of its 10 previous editions, received 9,744 road passenger transport sector professionals from 51 countries, 70 per cent of whom were recognized, qualified decision makers in the industry such as company chairmen, chief operating officers and managers, operating directors and technical directors. The quality of potential buyers generated a dynamic business environment, which was highly valued by participating companies, including those in the public road transport industry.

Another highly-rated aspect was the clear global profile of FIAA: 45 per cent of the exhibitors were foreign firms while 15 per cent of visitors were international professionals and buyers. Foreign attendees mainly came from European countries, including Portugal, Italy, Germany and the UK. There was a marked presence of professionals from Latin America too, with a number of visitors from Colombia, Chile, Brazil, Ecuador, Peru and Mexico.

The fair witnessed presentation of the latest products and technologies by some of the leading names in the bus and coach industry, like Daimler, MAN, Irizar, Iveco and King Long, while global leaders such as ZF and Voith from the supplier industry also made their presence felt.

Speaking at the show grounds, Ms. Ana Sanchez-Teran, Sales Director, IFEMA, observed: “The first FIAA show was held in Madrid two decades ago when we had just nearly 60 exhibitors. Now we have over 180 participating companies, and in terms of surface the show has become five times bigger.

We are happy with the growth, and next time we would like to receive more manufacturers from countries like India, China, Turkey, Brazil and also other supplier companies.”