Launching a new exhibition in a highly specialized industry such as the fishery sector can be a daunting task. But SEAFOOD EXPO EURASIA, scheduled to take place from December 7-9, 2023 at the TUYAP Fair and Congress Center in Istanbul, is up to the challenge. In this interview, we talked with Anna Shelkova, the Show Director of SEAFOOD EXPO EURASIA, about the valuable opportunities and challenges of launching a new exhibition, the goals and objectives of the organizer - Seafood Expo Development (SED), and how they plan to contribute to the growth of the industry. Join us as we explore Anna's insights into organizing the new event.
What makes SEAFOOD EXPO EURASIA a game-changer in the fishery industry, and how does it differ fr om other events?
Several reasons make SEAFOOD EXPO EURASIA a valuable event for everyone in the fishery industry. Firstly, it is a truly global exhibition that breaks down geographical and political barriers. It brings together fishery companies from around the world, creating an international platform for industry professionals to connect and collaborate. Secondly, SEAFOOD EXPO EURASIA provides a unique opportunity to connect with both small and large fishery companies. This presents attendees with a chance to discover hidden industry gems and expand their business network. Additionally, SEAFOOD EXPO EURASIA is designed with a business-focused approach in mind. The event understands the unique challenges faced by the fishery industry and creates an experience that meets the diverse needs of its attendees. Lastly, the event's flexible approach ensures a stress-free and successful experience, promoting a positive business spirit. We hope that our event will help participants to make meaningful connections and gain insights into the global market.
Seafood Expo Development (SED) is a new name in the fishery industry. Can you tell us a bit more about the organizers team?
Seafood Expo Development is a specialized event management company licensed to hold large-scale events for the fishery industry in Turkey. Our international team has diverse experience in fishery and exhibition organization, which enables us to better understand the needs of our clients. We are proud to represent different cultures and languages, including Turkish, English, German, Russian, French, Arabic, Chinese, and Spanish, which allows us to serve a wider range of participants.
With such a diverse team at Seafood Expo Development (SED), could you share with us which industry you come from - the fishery industry or the exhibitions sphere?
Although my background is primarily in the exhibitions sphere, I've gained extensive knowledge about the fishery industry since joining SED. With over 15 years of experience in managing projects for leading European exhibition companies like Koelnmesse, Messe Frankfurt, and Reed Exhibitions, I have a solid understanding of what it takes to create successful events that meet the needs of both exhibitors and attendees. Our ultimate aim at Seafood Expo Development is to leverage our expertise to build a platform wh ere industry professionals can connect, network, and conduct business.
As a woman leading a perspective international exhibition in the fishery industry, have you encountered any specific challenges or obstacles?
While being a woman in a leadership role may come with its unique set of challenges, it is important to remember that these issues are not specific to any one industry. Women in leadership positions across different fields often face similar obstacles, including stereotypes, biases, and double standards. However, despite these challenges, I'm excited to see a positive trend of increasing the number of women in fisheries, as it brings more diverse perspectives and experiences to the industry. Ultimately, success is determined by hard work, dedication, and perseverance, regardless of one's gender, and I believe that more opportunities and support for women in fisheries will only lead to greater success for the industry as a whole.
Organizing an exhibition for the first time is a monumental task. How does it feel?
Organizing a new exhibition is undoubtedly a challenging task, but it's also an exciting and rewarding experience. There are numerous challenges to overcome when launching an exhibition for the first time, such as organizing the work with the venue, selecting reliable vendors, and developing a comprehensive marketing strategy. For instance, marketing a fishery industry exhibition requires a deep understanding of the target audience, their needs, and preferences. We must ensure that our messaging is clear and resonates with potential exhibitors and buyers. However, with careful planning and diligent execution, we hope our hard work will be paid off and the show will be a great success. And certainly, it’s essential to mention the contribution of each member of our international team to growing SEAFOOD EXPO EURASIA. I really appreciate the commitment of all my colleagues. Welcome on board!