SDEA (Shop & Display Equipment Association) and the Creative Retail Awards joined forces to host an industry networking evening on 14th April, during the VM & Display Show 2026, bringing together professionals from across the retail display and design sector.
Held on the rooftop at Bubba Oasis, overlooking the exhibition centre, it gave attendees the chance to connect with colleagues and peers in a relaxed setting away from the show floor – something the industry has consistently said it values alongside the more formal aspects of trade shows.
The evening was made possible by the sponsors: Antalis, candee.bio, Genesis Mannequins, Kesslers London, Mega Creative, N-Fuze, Northbanks and RetailWise. Their support helped create an environment where genuine conversations could happen.
Antony Behiels, Director of SDEA, said: “Events like this are where a lot of the real business gets done. You spend the day on a busy show floor, and then the evening gives you the space to actually sit down with people, catch up properly and have the conversations that matter. The response from everyone who attended was really positive, and we’re grateful to our sponsors for making it happen. It’s exactly the kind of thing we consistently build on.”
The VM & Display Show took place on 14th and 15th April at the Business Design Centre, London.
For more information about SDEA membership, visit www.shopdisplay.org. For information about the Creative Retail Awards, visit www.creativeretailawards.com.
INFORMATION FOR EDITORS
About the Shop & Display Equipment Association (SDEA): The SDEA is the UK’s leading trade association representing suppliers and service providers to the retail display and shopfitting sectors. It supports members through industry representation, networking and the promotion of best practice.
About the Creative Retail Awards: The Creative Retail Awards is an international programme recognising innovation and excellence across retail design, visual merchandising and experiential environments. Open across more than 20 categories, the awards celebrate projects and initiatives that shape the future of physical retail.
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