BIRMINGHAM, U.K.— The Federation of Manufacturing Opticians (FMO) announced that is has contracted with the Mark Allen Group (MAG) to manage Optrafair to 2020.

Since it’s takeover of Optician magazine, FMO’s media partner last October, MAG ensured the delivery of a successful show at the NEC last month, an announcement said. Additionally, MAG was already contracted to manage FMO’s Optrafair 2017 which will incorporate its centenary celebrations.

“We have been very impressed with the fresh approach that MAG has brought to Optrafair, and want to build on our successful relationship not just next year, but in the years ahead when we believe that the sector's own trade show will go from strength to strength,” FMO chief executive Bryony Pawinska said.

The decision was made at FMO’s board meeting on May 4 and was held at the office of FMO member Heidelberg Engineering in Hemel Hempstead, led by vice chairman, Andy Yorke.

“This was not a difficult decision to make in the light of the really excellent pre-show sales that MAG has already secured for Optrafair 2017,” Yorke said. “As an exhibitor as well as a Director of FMO, I see this commitment as a real advantage for the whole sector.”

MAG's chief executive, Ben Allen added “'MAG's Exhibitions Division, headed by Ed Tranter, works internationally on many trade fairs in a wide range of industry sectors, but Optrafair is a very special event, with FMO's members and other stakeholders passionate about a very British show that is run by the sector, for the sector. We share that passion and are proud to have our association with FMO consolidated for the next four years, which will enable us to work with FMO on their plans for 2018 and 2019, leading to a sector-wide event to celebrate the turn of the decade in 2020.”

Optrafair 2017 will be take place from April 1 to 3.