Nice Fair: Smiles and Grimaces

The Nice Fair closed yesterday. Last day and therefore last rush, last bursts of energy to convince customers to buy. It is also the time for informal assessments while waiting for the official one from the organizers.

Behind his bottles of Bordeaux and Burgundy, Marc, a commercial in wine sales, awaits customers. Disillusioned and grimacing, he notes a 30% decrease compared to 2005 and explains it: “The largest wine consumers belong to the middle class of the population. They are the most affected by the decline in purchasing power. Wine is therefore being sacrificed. The gloomy climate in France doesn’t help and causes a reduction in meals between friends. It’s not an easy fair this year.”

A few rows away from Marc, Philippe watches over his leather coats that he is displaying. He too is waiting for customers. He discusses with his neighboring stand holder, complaining about not selling enough. But when asked about it, his speech differs: “Apparently it’s not as good as last year, but I am satisfied. I love fairs and the Nice Fair. I will return without hesitation in 2007.”

Valéry, seller and manufacturer of light fixtures and glass and crystal vases, notes a difference compared to previous years: “It is found in the approach of customers. They seem frightened when approached. Is it perhaps because our colleagues are more insistent and once they reach our space, they crave more tranquility? We should ask them.” From this 2006 edition, he draws a correct assessment but enhanced by the sale of two chandeliers at €25,000 that he will be delighted to bring next week to Cape Verde. A smile for Valéry.

Perplexity for Simon, exhibitor in outdoor furniture. “I will tell you more in a month. We had contacts, exchanges of coordinates with hospitality and restaurant professionals and even some deposit payments, but no direct sales. It’s the first year we’ve been here. If we are present again in 2007, it will be because we were satisfied with 2006.”

Not far from there, Olivier stores garden decoration in marble, teak, and granite and deciphers the specifics of his business: “We sell on impulse and also to professionals like the wooden beach hut. Speaking of Nicexpo 2006, I think it holds up compared to other years. We must admit that by exhibiting outdoors, the good weather was an advantage.” The Nice Fair, and this is the wish of Paul Obadia and the organization, evolves year after year. Visitors evolve as well. This is the analysis of Christian, a pool seller: “People negotiate prices all year round. They haggle. Previously this system was reserved exclusively for fairs. These meetings have become exhibitions. We show what we do. Visitors look, budget if they have planned the purchase for the short or long term. I think that’s the case for expensive products.”

The Nice Fair has therefore closed. Assessments will be made. They will certainly be positive for the number of visitors. For exhibitors, it’s rather a sorry sight. Still, they always sketch a smile in front of customers as good merchants do.