As OFFSITE EXPO 2023 came to a close, the organisers, speakers and exhibitors reflected on another outstanding event. With 3,740 attendees across the two days – an 8% increase from 2022, we have to ask what is the formula that attracts so many to Offsite Expo and how is success measured?
“Getting the content right is vital,” said Julie Williams, Business Development Director, Offsite Expo. “The show is curated by leading offsite experts and understanding the construction agenda is important, but where Offsite Expo scores big points is not only highlighting the industry issues but providing solutions. From achieving new Building Safety Regulations to creating houses that meet the Future Homes Standard – attendees are able to access information and advice. This is why it is standing room only at most of our CPD-Accredited Masterclass sessions.”
“It’s been great – the Digital Construction Masterclass was excellent. It was good getting everyone involved in an interactive way and hearing the speakers touch on subjects the audience really cared about and were most pressing to the industry. I’m looking forward to hearing more about international innovation – it’s been interesting to see not only where we are but where the industry is going and where we aim to be in the next year.” Delegate – Alex Fairweather, Design Systems Technician, Apply Structures.
Offsite Expo was well ahead of the MMC curve, now it has imitators but the original still stands strong and is acknowledged as a highlight of the construction calendar. It is certainly not the largest event of its kind, but it is one of the most highly focused – this is one of the many aspects that really appeals to construction professionals.
“I’m here to meet likeminded people who are all about sustainability and innovation and looking forward to growing my personal network. There have been a varied and engaging set of speakers with some real innovators and collaborators in the room. Very impressed so far.” Speaker – Chris Oldham senior policy and programme manager, City of London Corporation and project lead for the skills for a sustainable skyline task force.
“With over 70% of the floorplan booked or reserved for Offsite Expo 2024 at this year’s event, we know we are doing something right,” added Julie Williams. “But there is no ‘magic formula’ – it is down to dedication, hard work and an in-depth understanding of the offsite arena. We measure success in terms of feedback. In order to access the speaker presentations and information from the event – construction professionals have to complete a feedback questionnaire. This approach ensures we can review and refine content for our next event.”
“It’s been a really positive response. We’ve had some good conversations with people coming onto our exhibition stand looking at offsite construction as a viable option for their builds. I’m looking forward to seeing some old colleagues and meeting new faces, it’s a good opportunity to interface with the industry.” Exhibitor – Richard Bacon, Business Development Manager, British Offsite.
“As the first specialist event of its kind, Offsite Expo has played an instrumental part in driving transformational change in the built environment,” Julie concluded. “Now, following our fourth event, the construction industry is not only embracing factory-based build methods, but the government is mandating its use in public sector projects.
“We have been overwhelmed by not only the positive feedback but also the enthusiasm of all those taking part. We appreciate construction professionals taking time out of their busy working lives, but regular attendees understand that a day at Offsite Expo is time well spent. Extending supplier networks, making new contacts, gathering intelligence and learning new skills and specialisms, is all part of the Offsite Expo experience.”
‘It’s been a fantastic day – seeing a lot of people embracing manufacturing as opposed to construction and how the two can go hand in hand. There’s a really good balance of suppliers, equipment and service offers here that I can see us taking forward in some of our solutions. So overall it’s been an excellent event. It’s a great environment to have conversations about collaboration, particularly with the forums that have been set up.’ Delegate – James Withey, Managing Director for Algeco Offsite Solutions.
