Networld & Internet `98, the industry`s flagship networking and Internet business-to-business exhibition, opens on Wednesday with only 34 exhibitors - down from last year`s 110 which even then earned organiser Aitec a thumbs down from the industry.
Jo Melville, MD of TML Reed Exhibitions, this year`s show organiser, said the disappointing response is due to the unstable economic climate. She said 100 exhibitors didn`t seem an unrealistic goal at the end of June, but many potential participants pulled out as they perceived participation in the trade show as a risk under current economic circumstances.
Melville was positive, however, that "albeit small, this will be an extremely successful show". She pointed to the presence of Novell, the Government Communication Forum and I-Net Bridge as highlights of the show.
Keynote speaker at the official opening on Wednesday is Charles Smith of US-based Real Media, who will speak about international trends in electronic media and information.
The show runs from 16 to 18 September at Gallagher Estate, Midrand.
The Networld & Internet Web site is at http://www.nilive.co.za.
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