Plant and Waste Recycling Show

In this special edition of Plant Product Focus we report on events at this year’s Plant and Waste Recycling Show (PAWRS), which took place on the 8th, 9th and 10th of June in Paignton, Devon.

Following the success of last year’s show, the 2010 event was around 35% larger in terms of space and exhibitors. The show attracted a high quality of visitors, comprising representatives from business and local authorities – all of whom convened on the picturesque Paignton seafront to enjoy the glorious weather.

But suntans were far from the only benefits on offer – Paignton has established an excellent reputation over the years for allowing industry representatives to network with one another and foster new business relationships, within a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere.

One particular highlight was the awards evening, described by organisers as a roaring success. 160 local authority officers and business representatives attended the evening, which was hosted  by Sky Sports’ John McDonald. Meanwhile John Conteh, the former world light heavyweight boxing champion, handed out the awards, and also made an excellent after-dinner address.

Other attractions included the South West Recycling Forum Conference, running in conjunction with the show, and an event organised by the Campaign for Real Recycling, running for three days in the Conference Suite, in conjunction with May Gurney and Torbay Council. In general there has been a particularly green theme to this year’s gathering, with environmentally sustainable operations becoming an increasing priority for councils and private businesses alike.

Comments from exhibitors have been incredibly positive. Brian Beacon of VL Test Systems said it had been ‘a very worthwhile show’, and received ‘some excellent enquiries’.

All in all, the organisers say the show has been incredibly successful. Already, many of this year’s exhibitors have confirmed they’ll be back for more in 2011. The PAWRS Eco Team, led by Richard Hunt, looks forward to seeing everyone back at Paignton for next year’s event, on 7-9 June.