France's major wine and spirits show Vinexpo, has made changes to the 2015 exhibition to focus more on gastronomy, a bespoke meeting booking service and networking.
France's major wine and spirits show Vinexpo, has made changes to the 2015 exhibition to focus more on gastronomy, bespoke meetings set up and networking.
The show, now in its 18th year, will take place in Bordeaux from June 14 to 18, 2015, and has been extensively redesigned so that all halls now face the lake.
At the centre of the exhibition, major brands will be on show in Les Terrasses, which will open onto Hall 1 and the lake. The halls will also feature more themed areas focusing on free tasting, digital, wine and food pairing workshops with renonwned chefs as well as a wellness centre.
Vinexpo chief executive Guillaume Deglise, said: "Vinexpo has a history and now we are writing its future. And this future begins with a series of new initiatives that we'll be launching in 2015."
Guillaume Deglise
The exhibition is also introducing a personalised appointment booking service - which allows exhibitors and visitors to state their requirements, then Vinexpo staff approach key decision makers to set up relevant meetings.
Transport to the show is set to be easier, as the new tramway service linking the Exhibition Centre with Bordeaux city centre in 15 minutes will be completed.
The show will also host three free tasting areas: two exploring the emerging trends for rosé and sparkling wines, and a third focused on sweet wines.
The lakeside catering area is being expanded to incorporate a varied offer ranging from gourmet restaurants to food trucks, and exhibitors will be able to bring their own wine for lunch at any of the outlets without having to pay corkage.
In addition, Vinexpo is ramping up its networking opportunities with a series of informal parties on four nights called The Blend, which will take place in Hangar 14 in Bordeaux.