Solutrans 2007: Five days of business for the world of transport

The latest edition of SOLUTRANS, the International Trade Show of Transport Solutions, was held at the Lyon Eurexpo site from 17 to 21 April 2007. Against the backdrop of a particularly favourable environment for business, SOLUTRANS 2007 also placed emphasis on “sustainable development”, the Show’s key communication theme, to which exhibitors lent full support.

A bumper business edition

SOLUTRANS 2007 welcomed almost 28,000 professionals from the haulage sector, up 5% compared to 2005.

NB: the method used to count visitors in 2007 differed from previous sessions: it no longer took into account the visitors associated with the exhibiting firms.

These active visitors, mostly decision-makers and buyers, of which 14% came from abroad, secured a great number of contacts and orders for the Show’s 850 exhibitors.

Visitors spent an average of two days at this year’s event (up one day on the previous session), thus demonstrating the interest professionals are showing in this ever developing event.

With 150 journalists on hand at SOLUTRANS, the media (both written and audiovisual press) gave full coverage to this 2007 edition.

Sustainable development at the Show

With its “Sustainable Development” theme, SOLUTRANS, on behalf of the entire profession, wished to demonstrate the active contribution that the industry’s players are making to these issues, and especially environmental matters.

With the “European Modular System” (EMS), a special Industrial Vehicle feature in Hall 66, it was proven that it is possible to “increase capacity for improved haulage”.

The “EMS” project is being conducted throughout France by the French Federation of Industrial Bodybuilders (FFC)

In Hall 5, the Light Commercial Vehicles (LCVs) showcased their alternative fuel solutions.

Information and innovation

Safety, the environment, European regulations etc., the SOLUTRANS conferences covered all topical and potential haulage issues. These events were held in the TV Studio, attracting a large audience, and they were also broadcast at the Show’s entrances.

The many diverse innovations showcased by the exhibitors were presented with SOLUTRANS awards. The firms LECAPITAINE, CIF and LAMBERET won the Technical Innovation in Industrial Bodywork Award in the following categories respectively: LCVs, Carriers >3.5 Tonnes, and Trailers and Semi-Trailers.

Guy Martin, President of SOLUTRANS and the FFC seized the opportunity of the award ceremony to present the former Show President, Nobert Detoux, with a trophy for his involvement and the major role he played in the development and success of SOLUTRANS.

The bodybuilder TROUILLET was also awarded a prize for its 50th anniversary.

International cooperation in the limelight

The French Federation of Industrial Bodybuilders (FFC) signed a Protocol Agreement with the Special Vehicle and Transportation Equipment Association (AMETVS) in Quebec to develop trade and foster partnerships between their members.

Solutrans President Guy Martin welcomed Brahim Bendris, President of the Algerian Professional Automotive and Mechanics Union (UPIAM), in the context of a Franco-Algerian study on automotive customer service.

Last but not least, a delegation of Turkish buyers was able to make progress on its plans thanks to its visit to the Show.

A comprehensive, detailed roundup of the 2007 edition of the Show will be sent to the entire press in the coming weeks.