Buyers from as far afield as Australia and Taiwan all enjoyed the event which is now in its seventh year and was formerly known as ‘Meet the Buyer’. Now in its seventh year, the speed dating format of the event, with twenty minute meetings arranged for Buyers and Suppliers over the four days, has proved a very efficient and effective way to do business and BMF members have benefitted greatly from these events over the years.

Howard Pridding, Executive Director of the BMF said "Over the last seven years, the Buyer missions have generated millions of pounds worth of business for our equipment suppliers. We are delighted with the interest in the project and look forward to another successful event." Buyers, including purchasing managers and directors, like the event because they see a concentrated stream of new Suppliers over a short period.

A Buyer at the event, David Elderkin from French distributor Vidal Marine, said: "One to one meetings are the most successful way to meet new people and suppliers. It is my preferred way to visit shows and events. This one in London was a great event and well organised. Superb job guys!" Wilco Smit from Vitters added: “Very positive one to one meetings, well organised and definitely recommended if you're expanding your range of suppliers.” “I have found the International One to One interesting and have met a variety of new people and products,” said Gert Kaijen from Amels.

Emilio Lledo from Northwind Yachts in Barcelona said, “I want to congratulate you and the whole team of the BMF for the high level of the one to one meetings to which you invited me. The event was very well organised, and you have taken very good care of us. All the meetings have been very interesting.” Don Dennison from Sencora finished, “Apart from being a refreshing break from the shipyard office routine, the chance to discuss, face to face, with new (and someknown) suppliers, was for me very beneficial. It is a far more effective way to communicate ideas and information in depth than over the telephone or by email.”

Conversely Suppliers find the event a very efficient way to see new companies from around the world without all the normal associated travel. Hugh Cunningham of Halyard said, “The International One to One was instantly successful for us. At our first meeting the Buyer told us he would visit our stand at lunch time to order from us - and he did! The event once again has been an important way for us to meet Buyers.”

The Buyers also had programme of evening events, culminating with the main Gala Dinner at the Crowne Plaza, where nearly one hundred guests dined. UK Trade & Investment (UKTI), the export arm of Government, supported both International One to One and the International Business Lounge (South Gallery rooms 7 & 8). Marine specialist international trade advisors will be on hand throughout the week if companies are looking for advice from UKTI.