Knowledge
Make a diary date for this ‘very unique exhibition’
WITH THE REMIT OF FPS EXPO 2019 HAVING BEEN BROADENED, FUEL OIL NEWS SPOKE WITH DAWN SHAKESPEARE ABOUT
THIS YEAR’S EVENT WHICH TAKES PLACE IN LIVERPOOL ON 15TH &16TH MAY
“This is the place people have in their diary
to come to every year,” said Peter Hughes,
Williams Tanker Services
Asked about the main driver for broadening the
exhibition, Dawn explained:
“The broadening is very much in line with
changes in the industry, with the focus being
on targeting a wider range of businesses from
every corner of the fuel oil distribution industry.
“As well as equipment, which remains
a key area, this year’s specialist exhibition
appeals to manufacturers, suppliers and end
users in oil supply, tanker manufacturing,
oil companies, lubricant companies, fleet
operators, petroleum enforcement officers and
environmental agencies.”
Additionally, relevant trade associations
such as OFTEC and The Oil Recycling
Association will have a dedicated area focusing
on renewables – including bio kerosene.
This will enable fuel oil distributors to look at
how they can future proof their businesses in
readiness for a decarbonised future. (Enquiries
from other relevant exhibitors are welcome for
the limited space left available.)
“Having previously received feedback that
FPS EXPO had too many tankers, delegates
have asked for more exhibitor variety; this year
we’ve had the opportunity to do just that.
Tanker manufacturers will still be present at this
year’s show, and, of course, we will be happy
to welcome back, those unable to attend this
year, to next year’s FPS EXPO.”
“A very unique exhibition providing
exhibitors with the opportunity to meet
decision makers at all levels. It allows
exhibitors to promote new products and
receive instant market feedback to assist in
future product development,” Brian Mosley,
Tecalemit
“Importantly, this year will see the introduction
of our Industry Discussion Panels, offering
short discussion forums and panel sessions
on the key topics affecting today’s fuel oil
distribution industry.
UK SUPPLY CHAIN – understanding
future challenges & opportunities in the
downstream sector and the impact of Brexit
CLEAN GROWTH STRATEGY – what
does the future of heating look like?
ROAD TO ZERO – the future of road
transport fuels; Ireland issues from Brexit
through to smuggling, truck cartel and ADR
LEGISLATION for trucks and roads, plus
driver training
TECHNOLOGY to improve or protect your
business, plus what is new on the horizon that
may affect you?
Asked what the main topics of conversation
were likely to be at this year’s event, Dawn
replied.
“I think the government’s Clean Growth
Strategy and the future of the industry will be
key topics of conversation – along with Brexit
of course. We hope our industry panels will
not only help answer some questions, but also
spark some great debates!
“Among the many social and networking
opportunities available at this year’s event is
a new feature which will offer an onsite pay
bar and catering concession area; weather
permitting this will be situated on the outside
decking area, making it the ideal place to meet
customers and to network.”
The president’s reception will take place
in the main exhibition hall which will also host
the FPS awards. Awards for depot and driver
of the year will be presented along with two
new awards – the Green award and exhibition
stand of the year.
“Hosting the awards ceremony in the
main exhibition hall means visitors can stay
longer in the exhibition giving exhibitors more
opportunity to showcase products & services.
“It will be hard to beat our previous FPS
EXPO after show parties but we’re hoping
everyone will join us for an exciting evening at
the fantastic Pump House on the Royal Albert
Dock.”
In organising the industry’s key annual event,
what does Dawn find to be the most satisfying
aspect?
“Arriving on the Sunday, I love seeing
the transformation from an empty hall to a
stunning, vibrant exhibition by the Wednesday
morning. Year on year exhibitors impress me
with the effort they put into their stand designs
and, as they leave the show, I love hearing
feedback from visitors who are already looking
forward to returning next year!
Moving forwards
“The FPS prides itself on its passion for change,
improvement and constant development.
Whether that’s quality of content, visitor
experience, execution of build, or the ever-
changing range of features, products & services
on offer, we’re eager to keep moving forward.
“As we approach the 40th anniversary
of FPS EXPO in 2020, we will be hoping that
changes introduced in 2019 will be a great
success with exhibitors and visitors alike, and
that we will have seen record breaking visitor
numbers this year,” added Dawn.
Fuel Oil News | April 2019 13