SPACE 2014, held from September 16 to 19 at the Rennes Exhibition Center, surpassed the records set in 2013: 1,427 exhibitors (1,403 in 2013), including 457 international exhibitors from 36 countries and 114,718 visitors (+0.1%), including 1,350 international visitors (+10%) from 118 countries (110 in 2013). The net exhibition area of over 68,000 m² of stands represented 500 m² more than last year.
This 28th edition was inaugurated by the Minister of Agriculture, Stéphane Le Foll. During his visit, he had the opportunity to discuss important issues in depth with industry stakeholders.
SPACE's ranking as the second largest livestock expo (After Eurotier Germany) is further confirmed this year. The increase in international visitors was widely noted by exhibitors. The foreign dignitaries, including the Minister of Agriculture of Guinea Conakry, the Ambassador of the Netherlands in France and the President of the Senegalese poultry association, were extremely pleased with their visits. Thanks to Space's unique and diverse offering and the top quality facilities and services, participants were able to build relationships and contacts with a view to increasing their international trade.
SPACE 2014 played a leading role for livestock professionals in a warm and friendly atmosphere. The dynamic and positive business-oriented atmosphere at Space energized the participants for the coming months. SPACE 2014 fulfilled this mission despite the backdrop of price volatility, unstable international markets and the uncertain consequences of the Russian embargo, stricter environmental regulations and the difficulties besetting certain companies.
The strong involvement of the exhibitors makes SPACE an important business event that allows participants to meet, exchange ideas and unite their teams. The 49 Innov'Space (including 3 special mentions) illustrated the crucial role of innovation and research for the livestock industry of tomorrow.
The research and development village focused on "work design". At the Village, farmers, technicians and agricultural officials discussed the organization of work on farms to find the best balance between productivity, profitability and quality of life.
The Breed Event had an especially international flair this year with the presence of the participants of the International Normande Breed Council Conference (CINOR) and four international judges for the competitions. The first multi-breed auction reflected the high level of livestock presentations at SPACE and demonstrated that it is a leading global event in terms of quality.
SPACE is also an excellent vector for developing employment in agriculture: The job-dating event organized by APECITA was a huge success: during the 311 appointments (200 in 2013), 24 companies made 185 job offers (80 in 2013).
In closing, after this year's event that highlighted promising future prospects and smart investment choices for the livestock industry, the organisers look forward to seeing you from 15 to 18 September 2015 at next year's expo that aims to be even more professional, more international and more friendly.
