Chief Executive Officer, Elmarie Prinsloo, told the OFM Business Hour they had aimed for at least 100 000 people to attend this year’s Bloem Show, however, they ended up seeing more than that in the 10 days of the event. “We had 10 glorious days of hosting the 140 years Bloem Show, it was well attended, we had a 14.6% increase in attendance. We had anticipated that if we could get 100 000 people over the 10 days it would be amazing, and we ended up with 107 500 people.”

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She explained that over the course of the event, there were over 300 exhibitors and over 60 food stalls. “Bloem Show is a great platform for any business to market their services, and products to existing and potential clientele,” said Prinsloo. Another thing the Bloem Show focused on for their 140 years birthday event was to ensure that there is great quality and variety in the products and services that were offered, which will continue to be the focus as the years goes. “Some of the exhibitors who have been with the Bloem Show for 15 to 20 years had the best show ever this year, and in these trying economic times, this is one of the best compliments one can receive.”

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Prinsloo stated that they have indeed seen an increase after the two years hiatus due to the Covid-19 pandemic, and she believes it is because people are trying to find joy amidst all the negativity in the country. “We are surrounded by so many negative things in life, especially economically, so I believe people are just seeking for some good time and smiles. As the Bloem Show, it is always an absolute pleasure to offer just that for our patrons.” Another great feedback they have received is due to their agriculture side, which accommodated over 21 championships, and over 5 000 livestock.  

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As far as the future is concerned, she said the aim for Bloem Show 2024 remains to ensure that they offer great business quality and increase diversity. “We will also add a variety of entertainment, this year gaming was introduced and the plan is to increase this as we saw a growing interest.” They are also looking into a bigger agriculture show for 2024, which has already been booked. On that note, Prinsloo will also be attending the 2023 Nampo Harvest Day, she said this is a great way for Bloem Show to offer Nampo support. “It is always great to be on the other side of the event. From Bloem Show to Nampo, we wish them all the best and this is also a great opportunity for us to offer them support.”

In closing, Prinsloo gave her warm gratitude to every supporter, visitor, participant, and roleplayer. “I can only say thank you to everyone who took part, it wouldn’t have been possible without you all. To OFM, thank you very much; we have received compliments on the OFM Showcase.”

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