Cold Link Africa May 2022 | Page 24

FEATURE
2022
Direct access to industry leaders Several independent research reports prove that exhibitions provide direct access to decision makers - therefore opening up the opportunity for visitors to engage with all of the role players that can make things happen for a business or industry at-large through advice or ongoing engagement . This platform allows a forum to ask and listen and then build bridges with the industry ’ s most powerful stakeholders .
Many opportunities come about to engage with suppliers and network with old friends .
• Careers opportunities Exhibitions are a great place to get the youth involved in an industry by allowing them to learn about all of the aspects of industry dynamics , technology and design . This platform is also great if you may be interested in a career change . Exhibitions provide a glimpse of what you could expect to get involved in and sample first hand until you are satisfied to settle into something new .
Visiting exhibitions essentially always provides visitors with the things you never even knew you needed or wanted – and in today ’ s times of such a lot of changes – this is a great place to get up to speed with everything and everyone in the same place , at the same time .
PLANNING AHEAD AND GETTING THE MOST OUT OF FRIGAIR 2022 With so much to do and so much to see , how do you ensure you get the full experience ?
Having been four years since the last FRIGAIR , and having attended many golf days , virtual events , meetings and seminars ( where allowed face to face ), it is easy to spot the vast changes that have happened in the industry with many people and companies exiting or merging , in addition to just as many new entrants coming in , new engineers graduating and more contractors offering their services .
As were the wishes for the last FRIGAIR in 2018 , may the 2022 experience indeed create stimulus for the industry . Positive news for the sectors that rely heavily on the sector ( other than perishable products ) is that with the removal of the ‘ state of disaster ’, it is clear that the country is ready to get back to normal - and that means many hospitality sectors again coming into full-swing .
At this year ’ s show you will clearly note that the international pavilion was not able to attend ( due to travel restrictions / requirements ), however this gives exceptional opportunity to focus on and engage to the max with the local manufacturers and suppliers this year .
Visiting stands You will be doing a lot of walking so come prepared with comfortable shoes . There are two exhibition sites for FRIGAIR , namely Hall 5 and the allocated outside space . Have a look at the floor plans that will be around the halls and assuming you have been following all of the media releases , you will identify who you really must see versus who you want to see versus the ‘ nice to sees ’.
If you are travelling a far way to attend the show , you should probably plan to stop by all the stands , not just select a few . Knowing what the industry is up to and what new technology is available will come in handy at any point - even if it doesn ’ t seem so obvious at that moment . This is something we can personally testify to – you
never know when knowing some specific details can open or close a door ! Make sure to utilise the official FRIGAIR Catalogue as a guide to help you navigate your way around . The catalogue also has contact details for the exhibitors , should you want to look any of them up after the show .
The exhibitors have put in a lot of time and effort to bring you the best possible engagement , so spare them some time for a chat . The industry has changed dramatically so you want to know who the new players are . It ’ s who you know , remember … whether you are a consultant , a contractor , or even part of the competition , knowledge is power !
Events and launches Exhibitors are planning numerous fun and exciting moments . As with the last exhibitions , there were many lucky draws , competitions , and live demos to attend . Other functions and celebrations will also be taking place during the three days – so make sure you check in with your suppliers / connections to find out what else is happening . There are sure to be some pretty exciting activities on the exhibition floor so keep your eyes ( and ears ) open – you may be a winner if you have entered .
Free-to-attend workshops At this year ’ s FRIGAIR ( as with the 2018 event ) the South African Institute for Refrigeration and Air Conditioning ( SAIRAC ) has put together a very informative programme that will run concurrently with

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