Growing importance of Shanghai show, except for Europeans

SHANGHAI, China - More halls and more exhibitors did not attract as many EU trade visitors as expected to the 7th China International Bicycle & Motor Fair last week in Shanghai. This was compensated by Eastern Europeans, the Indians and Americans who came to China in large numbers.

Although the number of visitors in general was less than in 2006, the trade visitors if not buyers, regard this show still as a perfect indication to keep on track with China’s development. Locations of production facilities are shifting quickly due to rising labour costs in some regions of China and more and more local companies are now, or will be in the near future, able to meet the required quality standards of European bicycle makers.

Just a few well known A-brands presented themselves to the local market. Among them were Bianchi, Specialized, Colnago and Shimano recognizing the huge sales potential of this market. ‘Shanghai’ is the show for sourcing, not for new product presentations. This was obvious again this year. For launching new items and technologies exhibitors still rely on ‘Taipei’ and after the summer, the Eurobike.