Visitor numbers totalled 71,239 (subject to audit), outstripping the previous two years’ attendance figures. International visitors also increased by eight per cent to over 5,600, compared with last year.

Managing director of Emap Connect, Louise Young, commented: "Spring Fair International 2010 has been a resounding success. Our feedback indicates that substantial orders have been placed. Retailers are keener than ever to restock and differentiate their offering.

"The retail industry is one of the UK’s biggest employers and if the high street thrives in 2010 it will help lift the country further out of recession. No one is resting on their laurels now thinking it will be easy, but exhibitors at Spring Fair have provided an outstanding range of products to give retailers the best possible platform for success in the year ahead.

"We worked hard during our preparations to give exhibitors the best possible return on their investment in a show that would make the industry proud. I think we have succeeded. But there is always room for improvement and discussions with suppliers, buyers and trade bodies about Spring Fair International 2011 have already begun."

Spring Fair International 2011 will be held from February 6th-10th at the NEC, Birmingham.

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