Ipex organisers have expressed confidence that the exhibition will bounce back strongly at its 2014 edition at the event's open day at the Excel, London. While acknowledging that Ipex has seen some high-profile withdrawals, those behind the exhibition insist that the changes that have been made will result in a stronger 2014 showing.

"It has not been a boring couple of years at Ipex Towers," admits Peter Hall, managing director of Informa. "Long cycle shows can feature escalating costs and many exhibitors couldn't justify the spend. We believe, however, that we still offer a relevant, valuable event focused on the needs of printers."

The fact that 300 attendees had signed up for the open day was cited as an indication of a step forward by event director Trevor Crawford, who also pointed out that 80 percent of exhibition space had already been sold, with half of the expected 450 – 500 exhibitors having confirmed attendance.

"The purpose of this open day is to give exhibitors the tools that they need to ensure that their Ipex experience is a successful one," Crawford states. "At the same time, we want to assure people that Ipex is on the right path and moving in a positive direction."