BETT 2010 was ‘a flying success’

Almost 30,000 visitors braved the ‘big freeze’ last month to attend this year’s BETT at London Olympia, according to figures just released by the organisers.

Hundreds of tech firms converged at the educational IT event, showcasing scores of products signifying new ways for the industry to sell into the lucrative sector.

Emerging technology, such as multi-touch enabled devices and 3D projectors attracted a great deal of attention at the show, which took place from January 13th to the 16th. According to the organisers, 29,736 educators, teachers and other visitors made their way through the snow to the show.

Keith Clifford, marketing manager at organiser Emap Connect, said: “Once again, BETT was a flying success in 2010 despite the adverse weather on the opening day of the show.

“With more than 700 exhibitors showcasing the latest in educational technology, we witnessed some ground-breaking product launches for 2010. Microsoft launched its innovative assembly tool, Semblio, and there was plenty of buzz around DLP’s 3D classroom resources, to name but a few.”

Major players in the PC industry used the event to show off their new visions for the modern schoolroom. Dell’s concept of a ‘connected classroom’ combined devices such as interactive whiteboards, netbooks and tablet PCs, while Panasonic’s ‘classroom of the future’ included gesture-recognition technology and a new shortthrow projector.

“It was clear to see that despite the recession and caution around school budgets, those involved in the education sector are still willing to invest in the future of education; the news that computer and software supplier RM’s shares have risen 13 per cent since the company’s impressive showing at BETT indicate the importance of trade shows like these in the current economic climate,” Clifford said.