9 days of exhibition, 12,000 m², 160 exhibitors, 38,000 visitors, a serene economic climate, a sustainable salon, and successful outcomes. At the conclusion of this 2010 edition, Nice-Premium spoke with Marina Peré (the salon’s communications manager), who shared her insights about the event.
Nice Premium: Was it an anticipated and well-attended salon?
Marina Peré: Nearly 38,000 visitors explored the aisles of the salon between November 6th and 14th, some out of curiosity and others with concrete plans. A slight decrease compared to 2009 (about 5%) but it aligns with the normal attendance level of approximately 35,000 visitors annually. The extensive range of offerings and the eclectic nature of the stands allowed everyone to connect with the decor proposals, with satisfaction regarding the quality of the Palais’s layout and the quality of products and activities offered.
N-P: Can you provide us with the turnover? Is it satisfactory?
M.P: Despite a rather bleak economic climate at year’s end, the exhibitors, having put their best foot forward with new collections, stylish presentations, and business opportunities, observed a serene business atmosphere, supported by figures and sales records. Key moments maintained a regular dynamic: the late-night opening on Tuesday, November 9th was particularly successful, as was the Femin’in event on Wednesday, November 10th, which consistently attracts numerous and loyal female visitors every year. For reference, this event generates nearly 11 million in turnover, both during the exhibition (approximately 9 million) and in the following months in stores.
N-P: A new approach to organization was noted…
M.P: Organizing a well-established event with 43 years of history, while incorporating Sustainable Development directives, is possible! The Eco-Manifestation Charter of Nice Côte d’Azur was signed and adhered to across its 6 commitments: waste sorting during setup and dismantling phases, inside the Palais for visitors and at the stands for exhibitors, children’s activities by Recycling Ambassadors, and information provided as a KIT for visitors and exhibitors at www.salondumeuble-nice.fr. Carbon® and environmental assessments were conducted during the salon (results due in December). “We integrated the environmental principle into each step of our organization. At first, it seemed daunting, but over time, it became second nature,” recounts Christiane Petrilli, the salon organizer, while President Jacques Kotler remarked, “We had to do something without distorting our event, which remains dedicated to furniture and decoration. We successfully adapted our organization method and are very proud of it!”
N-P: Can we talk about successful outcomes?
M.P: Art and Design, a star Designer, 2 retrospectives, and… an enthralled audience. For the gallery owners present in the Mezzanine, the trial was successful, and the numerous visitors did not hesitate to confirm the current trend: our interior decor is unique, so why not bring Art into it? Or a branded item by Ora-Ïto, Pierre Paulin, or Pascal Mourgue?
