As usual, the International DM Fair boasted an astounding -- and often boggling -- assortment of attractions on the exhibition hall floor. A quick tour found a magician, twin blonde mini-skirted models (promoting de-duping software, natch); not one but two booths with pool tables; and a Disneyesque costumed character.
Wandering around the hall at any given time, one could spot a gloomy-looking bridal couple; a talkative robot; or a trio that looked like Devo rejects, walking zombie-like around the stands holding a fishbowl. If my life depended on it, I couldn't tell you what they were plugging--I sure as heck wasn't going to follow them.
And, of course, there was the usual day-long assortment of free candy, coffee, cake, ice cream and liquor. Hey, this is the INTERNATIONAL DM Fair. It must be cocktail hour somewhere in the world.
This year's award for best stand was presented to Colleagues Direct Marketing Ltd., for a high-ceiling booth featuring multiple television screens. JDA's stand was named most memorable for a garden motif featuring paper flowers and butterfly balloons, while Alterian Ltd. was honored for the most promotional presence. ETS Insert Control's stand, which was protected by two "bobbies," was named best use of space.
The DM Fair ended yesterday.
