The successful staging of this year’s Bloem Show continued its growth in stature as an economic catalyst in the Free State. This diverse consumer event celebrated a milestone of existing for 140 years as a thriving economic activity.
According to Elmarie Prinsloo, chief executive officer (CEO) of Bloem Show, this year’s edition grew significantly with the influx of patrons: The number of visitors and exhibitors surpassed that of 2022 and even 2018. Sentiment followed an introspection of the event, held annually in Bloemfontein, which closed on Saturday (06/05).
“Within challenging economic times, the show still saw a 14.6% increase in attendance versus the post-Covid show of 2022 (13 742 more visitors), and 1.7% more than in 2018 (1 819 more visitors). In total, there were 107 464 visitors that attended this year’s show from 27 April until 6 May,” said Prinsloo.
Last year, approximately 93 722 people attended the show over the course of ten days under relaxed Covid-19 regulations. During this period, the showground was certified to host 30 000 people.
“Bloem Show has, once again, proven itself to be one of the most popular shows in central South Africa, which resulted in a major financial and economical injection for the city and the region.
“Once again, the show assisted with a great economic boost for Bloemfontein and the Free State. Compliments and positive feedback were received for the variety, quality and addition of several new exhibitions to this year’s edition,” said Prinsloo.
She said the current economic outlook did not dampen the spirit of consumers and businesses who wished to be part of the event’s 140 milestone celebration.
“There were 312 exhibitors and 62 food stalls, as well as 2 067 submissions for the creative crafts and arts department. It is especially pleasing to see that many entries for the creative craft and arts there are from schools – what incredible pride there is to see their articles displayed at Bloem Show.
“Currently, the division is the largest of its kind in South Africa. There were also 289 dairy product entries received from various dairy factories in South Africa. The programme included 21 championships with 5 083 participating horses, cattle, sheep, and goats. We thank every visitor, exhibitor, service provider, sponsor and the media for the incredible support and contribution to the success of Bloem Show 2023,” said Prinsloo.
