Breakaway LOFA exhibition looks set for another successful showing.
Bucking the trend, outdoor leisure exhibition SOLEX 2009 is sold out, according to organiser The Leisure and Outdoor Furniture Association (LOFA).

Solex is the trade show for LOFA members and took place for the first time in July 2008. The dates for this year's event are July 13-15 and it will again be held at The Telford International Centre.

Speaking to DIY Week, LOFA company secretary and show organiser Richard Plowman said: "We're absolutely full, with 43 exhibitors overall and we've actually had to expand the show into the Ironbridge suite upstairs."

Asked why he felt the show had been a success for exhibitors and visitors alike, Mr Plowman said: "Obviously, our ability to fill the stands is partly because it's an exhibition for our members, so we've effectively got our exhibitors working for us. However, our visitors do get to see all of the major brands and players in the barbecue and outside furniture markets in a relaxed and friendly environment."

Although the association originally exhibited as part of the GLEE exhibition, LOFA had long felt that a July exhibition was felt to be more in harmony its members' buying patterns and announced the launch of a separate show at the Goring Hotel, London in July 2007.