Whilst Martin Johnson is probably still reeling from the pounding he got on Saturday, it seems rugby in England has managed to excel in other forms.

Remember in August when I told you about the inaugural Rugby Expo? Ja, well it happened – and it was a RAGING success by all accounts.

With 2oceansvibe’s Inside Centre massively involved in the undertaking, Rugby Expo provided fifty exhibitors with the chance to showcase themselves to nearly a thousand delegates over the two days and it’s clear from their feedback that it has proved an invaluable opportunity to developing their businesses further.

The conference side of the event was very popular and included
the likes of Ian Mccheeghan, John Allan and Dan Lyle.

Over the two days thirteen conferences took place, debating a range of hot topics from the world of rugby, which involved some leading panelists from the sport and business world. The likes of Dan Jones (Head of Sport Business Group Dottie) discussed rugby as a growing global business, Peter Wheeler (CEO, Leicester Tigers Plc) discussed the migration of players, Greg Thomas (Head of Communications, IRB) discussed what rugby needed to do to become an Olympic sport and David Butler (Marketing Director Honda Racing F1) gave his thoughts on building a brand profile.

Andy Steggall, Sky Sports News Presenter said: “We’ve talked a lot about sponsorship and rugby’s USP, but Rugby Expo’s USP has without doubt been the blue chip line up of guests in the seminars – first class minds that debated all the important pieces on rugby, demonstrating that Rugby Expo is not just a trade show.”

Alec Shepherd, Managing Director Rugby Expo, said: “With around a thousand people through the doors over the two days, it’s been a magnificent achievement for an event of this type in its first year. The feedback we’ve received from exhibitors, delegates and panelists has been exceptional and it is clear to us and to all that attended that rugby needs this event to help build on the commercial foundations of the sport. We will take the success of this year and build on this for next year’s event and for the years to come. “

If you have any further questions please contact Rugby Expo (Greg West) on 07870 685559 or visit the website at www.rugbyexpo.com.

Increase the gradient a bit, mate
– then you won’t be smiling.

That’s not what I heard you say, mate

Good Times

Congratulations, guys. Looking forward to the continued success of this annual event.