Numbers up but mood is mixed at Off-Price

Exhibitors were split over the success of the Off-Price Show last week, despite a 5% hike in visitor numbers.

Some exhibitors reported brisk business at the fair, which specialises in the sale of clearance and end of line stock, while others said the show had been quiet.

Leigh Charman, sales manager of young fashion business Cult Clothing, said: "It's been quiet but we've done well, and have booked for next season already. The mix of foreign to UK buyers has been 50/50."

But Mark Eley, director of UK Apparel, the UK distributor for US brand Goodie Two Sleeves, said he would not be exhibiting next season. "It's been quiet and the calibre of visitors has been dubious," he added.

European visitor numbers were up by 2% on last year, and organisers said they were actively courting European buyers. Event director Buzz Carter said: "The UK climate is tough and a lot of exhibitors are happy to supply abroad."

Off-Price Show will extend its footwear offer next season. About 60% of exhibition space is understood to have already been sold for the next edition, on April 6-7 at Olympia.