Hong Kong Electronics Fair Draws 5-percent More Attendees

October 22, 2012

The four-day Hong Kong Electronics Fair (Autumn Edition) and the concurrent electronicAsia attracted more than 97,000 buyers from 140 countries and regions, with the electronics portion drawing a 5-percent increase, compared with last year’s show.

The Hong Kong Trade Development Councils’ combined exhibitions at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre also welcomed 3,900 exhibitors from 28 countries and regions.

The electronics fair alone drew more than 64,000 buyers, a fair record. An increase in buyers came from Asian regions such as the Chinese mainland, South Korea and Taiwan, as well as significant growth from ASEAN and emerging markets such as Columbia, the Czech Republic, Ukraine and Vietnam.

Among the major retailers represented were Best Buy (United States), Carrefour (France), MGB Metro (Germany), ozon.ru (Russia), Future Group (India), and PChome (Taiwan).

HKTDC Deputy Executive Director Benjamin Chau said emerging markets are standing out as developed European and American economies remain mired in uncertainty, and buyers become more cautious.

“On the other hand, middle class consumer segments in emerging markets such as South America and Eastern Europe are expanding relentlessly and people there are going after consumer goods with outstanding designs and features,” Chau said..

He added, “With the increasing popularity of mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets, there is huge demand for related accessories, audio-visual products and apps. So there is still handsome growth potential in the market.”

This year’s Autumn fair was the first to introduce a Small-Order Zone, which offered more than 1,000 premium products from 220-plus suppliers.

An “Experience Corner” also was set up to allow buyers to inspect or try out products. Approximately 19,000 buyers visited the zone during the fair, creating nearly 13,000 trade connections during the event’s four-day period.

German buyer Rolf Weimann said the new feature helped her find what she needed. “We concentrate on identifying practical small household appliances, and in the Small-Order Zone I have tested out some products. This gives me a better understanding of their features and more confidence in them,” she said. “There are many variables in the market and our sourcing strategy has changed. At this stage we will mostly buy in small batches and will only place repeat orders if market response is good."

Industry players said they also appreciated having two events in a single venue to find the latest products, technology and market information, according to show organizers.

“Hong Kong is the best location for sourcing,” said Mihaela Babaran, an Eastern European buyer. “The simultaneous running of two major exhibitions has allowed me to come into grasp with product as well as industry trends in one go.”

The 33rd edition of the EFSE and the 17th edition of the electronicAsia will be held next October in the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre.

Add new comment

Partner Voices
One of the most iconic names on the Las Vegas Strip just got an upgrade. Mandalay Bay has everything that your business needs from a refreshed convention space designed to inspire productivity and creativity, to an impressive selection of world-class restaurants and amenities. If you're looking for a venue that's both inviting and innovative, you have to be here. New Wave Experiences Mandalay Bay continues to invest in a new wave of enhancements both in the convention space and within the resort as a whole. New restaurant openings including Orla by Michael Mina, drawing inspiration from the award-winning chef’s childhood in Egypt and with flavors and décor inspired by the spices found in markets common to coastal Mediterranean towns, as well as Caramá by Wolfgang Puck, bringing the essence of Italy and spirit of Wolfgang into one concept, are recent additions. The Four Seasons Hotel Las Vegas also experienced a recent remodel of all 424 rooms. Swingers, a high-end, adults-only golf and entertainment concept will debut in Fall 2024. Enhanced Technology Creating a truly effective conference venue requires careful thought into what a business needs: the right technology, capacity, and inspiration to bring ideas to the next level. As part of the resort’s refresh, Mandalay Bay implemented state-of-the-art technology upgrades, installing cutting-edge Cat6A Ethernet cabling throughout the convention center. This advancement doubles the frequency of data transmission, enabling lightning-fast speeds up to 9400% faster. The convention center now boasts 11 dynamic digital walls, spanning up to 24' x 13', strategically positioned for brand placements, sponsorships and targeted event messaging. Additionally, attendees can benefit from 20 double-sided 55" mobile flexible display units, facilitating effortless navigation to meeting rooms and events. RFID locks were installed on all meeting room doors, and over 200 motion detection cameras have been placed throughout the space. Refreshing New Design & Fine Art The newly remodeled convention space provides a bright and vibrant atmosphere that complements Mandalay Bay's tropical-inspired brand. Featuring white-washed walls and ceilings adorned with bold floral patterns in cerulean and coral tones, the space is complemented by warm walnut accent walls. In addition to the redesign of all pre-function spaces, meeting rooms and ballrooms, Mandalay Bay's 1 million square feet of exhibit space has undergone a rejuvenation, including new paint, covered pillars and relocated strobe lights. Sustainable Spectacles Mandalay Bay is committed to Focused on What Matters and creating more responsible meetings. Refillable water stations all available around the resort, cutting unnecessary plastic usage from single-use bottles. The Mandalay Bay campus’ recent upgrades represent a bold step forward in redefining the Las Vegas experience. With a focus on innovation, sustainability, and unparalleled service, Mandalay Bay sets a new standard for excellence in business hospitality. Whether you're seeking cutting-edge conference facilities, world-class dining options, or simply a luxurious retreat, an unparalleled meeting experience awaits.