The show was opened by Bob Masterson, first vice-chair of IAAPA and president of Ripley Entertainment, who commented that he was very impressed with the exhibition, noting that the booths were very busy and orders taken. He expressed his surprise, however, at the lack of direct participation by US companies; those that were involved were via distributors.

Much in evidence this year was the wider variety of product being shown, including many Russian companies offering products as representatives of Japanese, USA, German and other overseas companies.

Non-Russian companies, 76 in total, accounted for around 42% of those taking part. As is being experienced with other international exhibitions, there was a higher presence from China and Taiwan (11), as well as the same number from Italy. Regular exhibitors from India, meanwhile, included Arihant Engineering, Premier Irrigation and Syndicate Printers.

US suppliers may have been few and far between but, taking advantage of the UK Trade and Investment grant scheme, there were a record number of exhibitors from Great Britain, most of who were members of ALES-UK.

One such company, Elton Games International, enjoyed a large volume of enquiries once again. The supplier of the popular Kentucky Derby game already has around 20 games operating in many parts of Russia. JNC Sales, meanwhile, as the only UK suppliers of coin-operated amusement equipment considered their presence to be very worthwhile.

Brit newcomers included Dark Light Laser Tag, FX Simulation, Interlink, and Zone EU. Interlink's John Hudd stated that he had attended without having any preconceptions or expectations but was more than satisfied with the response, noting leads from many parts of Russia. Indeed, one of the most significant aspects of this year's show was that the quality of visitor, those already involved in operating amusement facilities, was greater than before.

Accompanying and preceding the exhibition was a seminar programme covering many practical operational aspects of managing parks and attractions, the majority of sessions presented by Russian speakers.

RAAPA has now introduced an Autumn event (October 3 to 5), smaller than the main RAAPA Show and designed primarily to enable companies not familiar with the market to meet owners and operators. This will take place not just in an exhibition environment but on site, with visits scheduled to FECs, parks, waterparks and other amusement facilities as an integral part of the experience.

Gerry Robinson heads Trade Shows International, a representative for RAAPA. Full details on the RAAPA autumn conference may be obtained from him by e-mailing tsi_ltd @hotmail.com

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