Satisfying VIV Asia

I know there is doom and gloom everywhere, but I’m finding VIV Asia 09 a happy show.

This may not be the commonest way to describe a trade show, but it’s how I feel about the event. Exhibitors are enthusiastic, attendees seem to be positively excited, and there is a generally welcoming atmosphere.

Today, however, has been quite a special day for me. Almost from the start of my career in agricultural journalism I had an overseas contact who was a regular source of not only information, but also support. We maintained communication for more than 10 years, but never met. The opportunity did arise on once, but for various reasons, we couldn’t meet.

Walking around the show today I came across the booth of the company that he used to work for and I thought to myself, “What do I have to lose, I’ll ask if he’s on the stand.”

He was, he remembered me, wanted to know to where I had disappeared to for a couple of years and was as keen as I was to reestablish contact.

Trade shows can be tiring affairs. You walk for miles each day and must have endless patience to make contact with the right person. However, my experiences of today reminded me of just what a nice industry this is.