SHANGHAI, China — The Shanghai International Trade Fair for Heating, Ventilation and Air-Conditioning concluded its inaugural show, Sept. 26-28, at the Shanghai New International Expo Centre. The event ushered in a new opportunity for HVAC professionals to tap into the growing market for individual heating solutions across East and Central China. The fair played host to 164 exhibitors from 13 countries and regions. Over 8,000 square meters of exhibition space was used during the three-day event, and visitors totaled 8,326.

“We developed the Shanghai show with the goal of popularizing the utilization of HVAC products and technologies to more regional markets which traditionally have not been covered by central heating supplies,” said Richard Li, deputy general manager, Messe Frankfurt, China. “I believe we’re setting up our exhibitors with a wealth of opportunity.”

For exhibitors offering finished solutions to end users, the show offered the opportunity to connect with qualified local distributors to grow local market share. Jaga Radiator (Shanghai) Ltd. was one exhibitor who came to the fair to showcase its expertise in radiator development, eco-friendly design, and sustainability.

“We are a 50-year-old producer of radiators, heat pumps, as well as full home intelligent systems,” said Jan Kriekels, director. “Over 1 million units of our products are in use around the world and we believe China will become our largest market in the near future. We made excellent contacts at the show, and we were able to get better ideas on the different needs of heating professionals in the region. We will come back.”

For both local and overseas attendees, the show allowed visitors to meet the area’s major players, and learn how their business can benefit from the available opportunities.

Igor Duzenko, chief engineer, Frunze Plant JSC, sought valve and piping products for use in his production business in Ukraine and China. He explained: “The show was good. I was able to meet with some qualified suppliers with excellent quality products, and I intend to follow up with them.”

Since the integration of heating solutions in property development is a new concept in East and Central China, ISH Shanghai & CIHE offered a series of fringe programs to share the latest trends. Over 40 sessions ranging from floor-heating installation, classroom discussions, and industry forums took place during the fair.

“The response to the classroom discussions was very good, and met our expectations,” said industry mentor Dong Zhongming. “People in East and Central China, including industry practitioners and property owners, are not familiar with heating concepts that can meet their needs. They want to know if it’s good, how good it is, and what the concerns are. The positive feedback gives me motivation that we should continue our efforts with this show.”

The next edition of ISH Shanghai & CIHE is scheduled to take place Sept. 25-27, 2013. For more information, visit www.ish-cihe.com.

Publication date: 11/26/2012