We are pleased to report that The UK Audio Show continues to grow each year in terms of footfall and exhibitors. In fact, the 2022 show broke all previous records and saw tributes to Stuart Tyler's and Max Townshend's life achievements.

The former was celebrated through a display (above) of early speaker models, old photos, hi-fi show posters and brochures charting Stuart's company from its Celef beginnings to the present day with the ProAc K Series range.

Meanwhile, visitors were treated to Max's system (below), including the mythical Glastonbury Tor loudspeakers and hybrid valve/Class D amplifiers that Max Townshend developed but never put into production. Additionally, there was a display of the iconic Townshend Rock turntables in many forms thanks to Mat 'Rock Doc' McNulty.

However, while achieving year-on-year growth is impressive and attracts attendees looking to see new products and connect with brands, exhibitors need to do good business to make their investment worthwhile.

The Chester Group promised that The UK Audio Show 2023 would be more extensive, and we can confirm that it has secured a further large wing of the Staverton Estate. This will be sponsored by the Chester Group and host a complimentary industry event, ensuring brand-new footfall alongside crossover interest. The full details of what this will entail will be shared later.

LONDON AUDIO SHOW

Although we have seen a greater diversity in the crowds attending The UK Audio Show, pure hi-fi fans and the companies behind the exhibitions are now facing more shows across the country, as well as globally, now that everywhere is practically back to 'normal'.

As a result, the Chester Group has spent considerable time talking with esteemed audio industry members, specifically about its plans to restore the London Audio Show. Although the group has had more than fifty new enquiries for this new show, it recognises that England is reaching saturation point with the number of shows aimed at the same visitor demographic. Not only does this have the potential to dilute attendance, but the group also recognises the state of the economy and the danger of over-burdening funding.

So, rather than needlessly stretch exhibitor and show-goers' budgets any further this year, the Chester Group has postponed the London show to the same dates next year, the 27th – 28th of April 2024, to provide everyone with more time to budget and plan. This decision also enables the team to focus on the bigger and better Staverton show, which has already seen a 50% take-up of exhibitor space in the few months of the 2022 show closing its doors in October.

Stay tuned for more news about the UK Audio Show 2023, coming soon!