Diversified Communications, producers of Seafood Expo North America and Seafood Processing North America, announced that the exposition had a record breaking year with over 20,680 seafood professionals.
The exhibit hall, which featured 220,130 square feet of exhibit space, was represented by 1,204 exhibiting companies from 51 countries— surpassing last year’s record by 22,700 square feet. New and expanded country participation included Brazil, Canada, Senegal, Morocco, China, Ecuador and Spain.
“This is the first time that a Brazilian Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture came to an international expo,” said Boston’s first time exhibitor, Emerson Raiol, Head of Service – International, Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture.
“Mr Helder Barbalho was very pleased to see the significant representation of Brazil at the exposition and is considering expanding the Brazilian presence next year.”
“This year’s exposition is by far the largest edition in the event’s history in terms of exhibit space and participation, reflecting the importance of doing business in the North American market,” said Liz Plizga, Seafood Group Vice President at Diversified Communications. “This has been an incredible year and feedback from exhibitors has been positive.”
“Being at the show gave us excellent exposure to the right people and high quality leads. We’re expecting to receive many calls after the expo as a result,” stated Christa Svensson, Export Sales, Marketing and Sustainability, Bornstein Seafoods.
In addition to the exhibits, attendees had the opportunity to participate in a series of special events including a conference program on the most relevant topics in the seafood industry, culinary demonstrations by renowned Chefs and networking opportunities.
The 9th annual oyster shucking competition, which took place on the second day of the exposition, was won by Daniel Notkin of Notkins Oyster Bar who competed against 13 other contestants.
Winners of the 2015 Seafood Excellence Awards, which recognizes product leaders in the North American seafood market, were announced during a live judging by a panel of seafood buyers and experts from the retail and foodservice industries. Yihe Corporation won the “Best New Retail” award for its Alaskan Jack’s and High Liner Foods won the “Best New Foodservice” award for its Pulled BBQ Salmon.
“Seafood Expo North America was a great opportunity for Absolutely Lobster® to launch its new products. We definitely reached our goals and created new connections,” said Nickie Boston, Director of Brand marketing for Absolutely Lobster® and Seafood Excellence Awards finalist.
Visit http://www.seafoodexpo.com/north-america for more information about Seafood Expo North America/Seafood Processing North America.
