Formex, which marked the start of the season for the Nordic décor and gift industry, drew to a close last weekend. This spring’s fair attracted 876 exhibitors. Interest from abroad continued to grow, with the number of foreign visitors up 7%. The total number of visitors was 25,389.

This spring’s Formex drew just under 5% fewer visitors compared with last spring’s record attendance figures. However, the number of foreign visitors is continuing to grow, with this spring’s Formex attracting 1,277 international visitors compared with 1,187 last year – an increase of over 7%. Finland was the top visitor nation with 546 visitors, followed by Norway with 152. Denmark is now the third largest with 114 visitors, an increase of 63 compared with spring 2011.

“We’re delighted to note that visitor numbers were largely unchanged compared with last spring’s record figures – particularly since these are tougher times,” says Chicie Lindgren, project manager for Formex. “It’s also pleasing that interest from abroad is continuing to rise. The figures show that we have a strong position in the Nordic region, and that some people came a long way to get here – including 50 visitors from Japan.”

The theme exhibition “Neither fish nor fowl” by Synnöve Mork, the ”Below the Snow ” buffet area by Note Design Studio and the Young Design Café “Indigo Mood” by Cecilia Dreyfert all proved extremely popular, as did the talks. Inspiration and knowledge are an important part of what the fair has to offer.

“We’re continuing to work to make it clear that Formex consists of three areas: business, inspiration and knowledge,” adds Chicie. “We’ve also divided the knowledge area into three parts in an attempt to clarify our offering. This involves more in-depth knowledge in various business techniques: how I can boost my sales, how I can create attractive shop windows, and so on. At the fair, visitors should also be able to find out about the latest trends through our exhibitions. The third part of our knowledge area relates to the fact that we want to strengthen our visitors and give them a lift through our inspirational talks.”

Media interest is also continuing to grow, with 927 accredited representatives compared with 904 last year.

Formex is held twice a year at Stockholmsmässan. The next fair will take place on 16-19 August 2012.