European Coastline Fair returns to Brittany in 2010

Building on the success of the first European Coastline Fair, which took place in 2009, this event will bring together decision-makers in public- and private-sector procurement, as well as professionals working in economic planning and development in coastline regions. In 2010, the European Coastline Fair will take place in October, in the port of Lorient, in Brittany (western France).

The European Coastline Fair is an innovative and multi-sectorial event for decision-makers, executives and managers from across Europe. It is the leading B-to-B meeting place for professionals in regional planning, equipment, technology and services linked to the coastline economy.

The European Coastline Fair provides a forum for B-to-B meetings, as well as opportunities for debates and the exchange of information. It is the only event of its kind in Europe. The first Fair, which took place in 2009, was attended by the leading decision-makers and professionals from across the coastline sector.

A survey of participants from the 2009 fair revealed very high levels of satisfaction with the event, which was organised by the SAFYM agency. Over 95% of the 71 French and other European companies that exhibited in 2009 have confirmed their attendance in 2010.

Alongside business meetings, there will also be a full programme of conferences, round-table debates and exhibitions, which will provide participants with the opportunity to discover innovative technologies and solutions, as well as to share relevant experiences.

In 2009, the 1,800 visitors/decision-makers in public- and private-sector procurement from France, French overseas territories, other European countries, Asia and Africa found practical answers to coastline-related problems through 14 conferences, which were organised in partnership with Cap l'Orient (Communauté d’Agglomération du Pays de Lorient – Lorient Area Community).

The themes previously addressed in 2009 are now more topical than ever, and will include sea-front planning, equipment and procedures to combat coastline erosion, floating barrages, waste management, the maintenance and protection of ports, oil-recovery vessels, clean renewable energies, retention basins, water and wastewater treatment, research and consultancy departments, and the integrated management of costal areas.

The European Coastline Fair is sponsored by 40 partners from across the EU, including the European Commission; the French Ministry of Ecology, Energy, Sustainable Development and Regional Planning; the office of the French Secretary of State for the Sea; and the Regional Council of Brittany. Other participating organisations include the Conference of Peripheral Maritime Regions (an organisation bringing together representatives of 160 coastline regions across Europe); the Association Nationale des Élus du Littoral (the French association for elected representatives of coastal regions); Cap l’Orient; the Brittany Maritime Cluster; the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur (PACA) Maritime Cluster; and the Conservatoire du Littoral (a French organisation dedicated to protecting the country’s coastline).

About the European Coastline Fair

The European Coastline Fair (Salon Européen du Littoral – SEL) will take place from 5 to 7 October 2010 at the Parc des Expositions in Lorient, in Brittany (in the west of France).

Lorient, which is located in the heart of southern Brittany, was chosen to host the event because of its diverse and dynamic maritime economy. The town and its port are well-known for the innovative research carried out by companies and organisations in the area.

For further information, and to register to attend the event, please go to: www.sel-expo.com