Seatrade Cruise Connection

December 2005

First-time Exhibitors looking for big break into Cruising

The Seatrade Cruise Shipping Convention attracts attracts thousands of visitors and hundreds of delegates to its massive trade show every year, but it also brings scores of new exhibitors. And while they come from many different industries, they all have the same goal — to break into the multibillion-dollar cruise business.

An example is Navalis Environmental Systems, which designs and builds the Navalis Poseidon blackwater and graywater treatment systems. According to Steve Markle, engineering director, members of the Navalis team have attended Seatrade as both visitors and delegates, and have recognized the value of exhibiting.

“We are seeking better understanding and appreciation of cruise ship wastewater treatment needs through dialogue with industry professionals dealing with the unique operating requirements of cruise ships,” Markle said. “And Seatrade offers Navalis the opportunity to convey its unique story in an efficient manner to a variety of future customers.”

Another new exhibitor seeking to increase its cruise presence is Schwan's Food Service, which supplies highquality pizza doughs, finished pizza products, Asian appetizers and dispensed ice cream under such well-known brands as Tony's, Red Baron, Freschetta, Proof Perfect, Minh and Arctic Express.

According to David Fleischmann, key account manager and cruise specialist for Schwan’s, over the past two years the company has made a concerted effort to grow it's business with the cruise lines.

“All of us at Schwan's believe there is no better avenue to have as many decision makers see and taste our products along with answering their questions in a one-on-one atmosphere than at the Seatrade Convention,” said Fleischmann.

Many first-time exhibitors are like true adventurers — they have never attended the convention, but are confident in their product and eager to break into the cruise business.

Kathleen Wetli, director of sales for Okabashi, a spa shoe and sandal/flip-flop company that sells to large hotels and retailers.

“Our shoes have therapeutic beads in them which as you walk massage your feet; they are also slip resistant which is perfect for the ships pool area,” she said. “We are exhibiting at the Seatrade show because we believe our product would be the perfect addition to the ships gift stores and spas. We have never participated in the show before, and we hope to get connections with major cruise ship spa directors and shop buyers.”