The 22^nd Motorcycle Trade Expo that took place last month at Stoneleigh Park in Warwickshire was a full success according to the organisers.

Promoted as Europe’s biggest motorcycle trade- only show, the organisers report that attendance increased by 8.4 % over the previous year with a record visitor number of 4332 and 170 exhibitors, mostly from the UK.

The “ biggest motorcycle trade- only show” label is a bit of a red herring as trade shows on the continent (Europe, that one again) are many times bigger but shows like EICMA or Intermot also open their doors to the general public at least on designated days.

Demand was driven by the desire among dealers to see the latest Euro 4 machinery, as well as to source the latest clothing, accessories, replacement parts and to evaluate finance and insurance services that especially focus on bike dealerships.

 Many exhibitors reported that they had seen a terrific 2016 for their companies, however I also spoke to dealers who have experienced the opposite.

 Whilst some wholesalers and dealers see price rises as a good thing, the majority of us see price rises with mixed feelings, ultimately effecting turnover and profit. The mood id cagey, nobody knows where the self inflicted Brexit journey goes to and where or when it will end.

However, work is apparently already undertaken to organise next years Expo and I am looking forward to the show.