Published: 13-11-2009
A few years back even the name of the Marine Equipment Trade Show would have been unfamiliar with most superyacht owners. But many will be heading to Amsterdam next week for the METS, which has hugely increased its profile within the large yacht world over recent years.
Don’t get us wrong, METS has long been a must-visit exhibition for all those who are busy with the equipment and systems that are installed in modern superyachts. In fact, as installations have become ever more complex, the added value of an indoor exhibition where people can focus on the engineering nitty gritty without being distracted by gleaming white vessels on the quay and all the glitter and glam that comes with the top boat shows has been clear.
METS 2009 will certainly be no exception, with the widest range of marine equipment suppliers on hand among the record number of 1,232 exhibitors. In fact this year’s event will be the biggest METS to date with an increased floor space and 193 first-time participants. From air-conditioning to walls panels, propulsion solutions to bowthrusters, all the leading companies in these specialised fields will be in Amsterdam from 17 to 19 November.
Another reason why the large yacht community is increasingly attracted to METS is the so-called Superyacht Pavilion, which was first initiated in 2006. After a tentative start, this concept has taken off and no less than 33 companies will take part in this exclusive ‘show within a show’ solely dedicated to suppliers of products and services to the luxury yacht market. The associated Global Superyacht Forum is also very popular, with over 4000 delegates joining with the pavilion to ensure METS maintains a unique spotlight on the megayacht market.
One of the key focal points of this year’s Superyacht Pavilion will be the growing refit market. Exhibitors along the all-new Repair & Refit Boulevard include the HJB Refit Centre (a part of the Holland Jachtbouw yard), which is also sponsoring the well-known ISS Membership Mixer event.
“At Holland Jachtbouw we are very aware of the importance of captains, engineers and crew, both to the daily running of a yacht and during a new build or refit,” says Paul Dielemans, MD of the HJB Refit Centre. “We also truly appreciate their input, which is why we decided to sponsor the ISS drink at METS. METS has become an excellent place to meet and network with industry peers.”
METS 2009: When & where
17-19 November 2009, Amsterdam RAI
Opening hours
Tuesday, November 17 10.00 - 18.00
Wednesday, November 18 10.00 - 18.00
Thursday, November 19 10.00 - 17.00
Admission is € 100 per person or free of charge with a METS invitation card or for people who have pre-registered.