Retrotech 21st May 2023 - Sports Connexion, Coventry

[Pamphonica]

The eagle-eyed amongst you may have noticed reference to a new venue for Retrotech for 2023, both on the BVWS website, and on the RetrotechUK website. The new venue is Sports Connexion near Coventry, less than 8 miles from the old venue at the Warwick Exhibition Centre (WEC).

The decision to move venue has not been taken lightly, and has involved a major search for an alternative (Thank you Greg H!). The primary driver has been the high cost of the WEC against attendance figures of roughly 500 this year. This event, the surplus from which provides essential funding for the Dulwich Wireless and Television Museum, was in danger of dropping into serious loss-making. There was no alternative but to plan a move to a suitable but far more economical venue.

There will be lots more information to come, but please be reassured that the new venue is a good size and does have easy access, reasonable free parking and suitable facilities. It should be an excellent new home for RetrotechUK.

-Jeremy

[Paul Stenning]

A lot of similar events, such as the Audiojumble as well as antique fairs etc, use large halls in sports centres like this, so it is a tried and tested approach and a great way to make the event viable for the longer term.

As and when details are confirmed we will update the RetrotechUK website and post here.

Please keep any questions etc until the FAQ on the website has been updated (aim is by end of September) as that should cover most of what you need to know.

The venue website is https://www.sportsconnexion.co.uk/

[Reelman]

Having lived in Coventry for a number of years I have been to the new location several times. It should prove to be an excellent location. A stones throw from my wife’s late grandad’s house.

If it is a success can we return to 2 events per year as per the NEC days…….?

Looking forward to it,

Peter

[Jolly 7]

I would like to request the organisers of Retrotech to consider other venues around the country as well. This should make it more affordable and easier for many visitors who don't live that close to Coventry.

[Paul Stenning]

Thank you Peter, that's very reassuring.

We need to get one or two successful (and profitable) events at this new venue before looking at different locations or increasing the number. One step at a time.

It's a lot of work to organise these events, which attendees and stallholders don't see.

[Pamphonica]

To respond to "Jolly 7"s very valid comment:

The BVWS committee have looked at a large range of venues for events, based on geography and facilities. Sadly, many just wouldn't even cover their costs. It's worth remembering that quite a lot of BVWS events were started by, and are still run by members, with help from BVWS committee and others. John Howes runs Punnett's Town, Mike Barker runs Royal Wootton Bassett etc.

So if anyone would like to start up an event for BVWS members nearer their location, why not give it a go? I'm sure it would be well publicised via this forum and BVWS channels. The key is to ensure that enough people will visit to make it economically viable.

-Jeremy