Trade fairs have changed their look. Taipei Cycle, In Taiwan, it remains the world reference, despite the indoor expos (inside pavilions) facing a period of decline. And yet Taipei remains a favorite meeting point for many, visitors and industry professionals.
We asked Claudio Marra, vice president of FSA-Vision, great expert of the Taipei Fair and Taiwan, to guide us to discover theexhibition which will take place from 26 to 29 March.
Is Taipei Cycle still a point of reference?
The Taipei Expo, open to bicycle industry professionals and the public, is changing its appearance compared to what it was until 2010/2012. Until those years Taipei Cycle's central role was undisputed, you couldn't miss that fair. During three days of exhibitions the whole world met. More generally, the entire trade fair sector within the pavilions is suffering and probably. Taipei, although suffering, is the one that remains in vogue, it is a trade fair that is always well organized and well attended.
Why is the world of indoor expos suffering so much?
The reasons are varied. Seasonal patterns and new product launches have changed. The big bike brands organize ad hoc events and they disappear from the big fairs and everyone adopts a cost-cutting policy. The market faces a difficult and uncertain period, despite Taiwan and Asia remain a reference for production. Along with a decline in industry expos, the Taichung event, which is not open to the public and is dedicated exclusively to industry professionals, has grown significantly. Last but not least, on the consumer side, there is the increased interest in outdoor events and demos, where you can also pedal and try out bicycles.
Has Taichung replaced Taipei?
Only partially. From a strategic point of view, Taichung presents itself as an easy, practical, fast and concrete event from a business perspective. Obviously the final consumer is missing.
The future of bike shows as we know them?
Taipei Cycle remains and will remain a meeting point extremely important, to be present undeniably brings advantages. It will be able to shift focus to the aftermarket, intended as a trade show where you can preview our components. For example, as FSA-Vision, we'll launch new products during the 2025 edition with the aim of generating particular interest. Bicycles will be there, but at the same time, I don't think the big brands will return.
Is Asia a meeting point?
Taiwan and Asia in general play a strategic role. The Far East remains the reference for production and also for technologyThere is a shift especially towards Eastern Europe, but the role of Asia remains central.
