Visitor numbers up at APEX and IRE

The APEX and International Rental Exhibition (IRE) attracted around 30% more visitors than the previous exhibitions in 2023, with more than 7,000 in attendance over the three days in early June.

The exhibitions, which were supported by IPAF and the European Rental Association (ERA), saw a high level of rental company delegates, attracted by more than 210 exhibitors and the co-location of the ERA’s annual convention as well as the European Rental Awards dinner.

The success of the events is prompting the joint organisers, KHL Group and I.P.I. BV, to consider increasing the frequency of the events from their current three-year cycle and a shift to Amsterdam.

There were more than 210 exhibitors at the IRE and APEX shows. (Image: Joe Mather, KHL Group)

Innovations at the shows this year included a show-floor seminar space where more than 20 exhibitors offered short technology presentations.

The event hosted several important events, including the ERA’s 20th Convention, the rental awards dinner attended by more than 430 guests, and events organised by IPAF and ERA to promote the participation of women in the access and rental industries.

IPAF also held its AGM at the event and organised safety demonstrations daily in its outside stand.

Exciting three days

“It was an exciting and positive three days”, said James King, CEO of KHL Group, “There was so much going on, from the ERA convention and new opening party, to the awards celebration and the initiatives around women in the industry.

Visitor numbers were around 30% up compared to the 2023 events. (Image: Joe Mather, KHL Group)

“The shows demonstrated the appetite for an international event focused on the needs of the equipment rental industry, covering access equipment, rental technology and compact equipment.

“We are looking at a shift to Amsterdam to make it easier for international visitors to attend and considering an increase in the shows’ frequency.

“Watch this space for announcements soon.”