New direction for Ecobuild 2016 voted a hit by industry

Tens of thousands of industry professionals flocked to Ecobuild to see 800 brands across core areas of industry growth and market priorities: housing, infrastructure, design, energy efficiency, technology and skills. The UK’s definitive event for the built environment, Ecobuild 2016 unveiled its new direction, shook up its layout and delivered a robust three days of business.

It kicked off on a high note as Berkeley Group Chairman, Tony Pidgley CBE opened the Ecobuild Conference, which together with dedicated learning hubs across the show featured more than 350 high level speakers, celebrities and industry A-listers.

Martin Hurn, Event Director at Ecobuild, said “The built environment has fundamentally changed since Ecobuild launched 12 years ago. Government policy is at a crossroads but sustainability has become normalised. While we continue to maintain the eco-focus and promote sustainability standards with our partners across the industry, the smarter end of the market is taking a broader approach to sustainability, aiming to ensure buildings appeal to occupiers well into the future with improved building performance, design, efficiency, health and wellbeing benefits”.

Hurn added that Ecobuild had confidently set out a repositioned show to reflect market priorities after a period of consultation with customers and stakeholders. New areas introduced for infrastructure, digital construction, smart technology and resource efficiency in the built environment are hot prospects set to grow for the event in 2017.

He said “We’ve been thrilled with the feedback from Ecobuild 2016. The industry is changing and we’re changing with it, ensuring our visitors come away with new ideas and working practices as well as new connections.

“The response has been emphatic. It’s been our buzziest show for a number of years and exhibitors are already looking to book for 2017 in record numbers. I’d like to thank the exhibitors for once again showcasing the very best in innovative products and services that are helping to drive the construction and energy industry, meet future needs and adapt to the challenges ahead.

“I’d also like to say a huge thank you to our partners and look forward to our ongoing collaboration with the industry throughout the year.”