Momentum is building behind Water Alive, the new consumer show for fishkeepers, which will run alongside trade exhibition AQUA 2023 in October. 

News of the event was announced last month and the aquatic and watergardening world has been buzzing with excitement – already over half of the available stand space has been reserved.

AQUA 2023 is being held on Thursday, Friday and Saturday, 12-14 October, with Water Alive being open to consumers on the final two days (Friday and Saturday). The Thursday of AQUA 2023 will be a trade-only day as in previous editions.

The idea of Water Alive is to help consumers become more engaged with their hobby and feel part of an amazing industry. They will be able to see and touch all the latest launches from leading manufacturers and suppliers as well as buy products from specialist retailers.

Organisers of Water Alive are keen to stress there will be strict commercial guidelines in place at the event to uphold the industry’s principles and keep the show professional. As a result, all direct-to-consumer sales taking place at the show will be handled by retailer stores, who must hold an OATA retail membership.

“Water Alive is an exciting addition to the aquatic and watergardening industry,” said Mark Winter, chairman of organisers OATA Impact Exhibitions. “We will ensure the highest standards are upheld so that everyone can enjoy a professional and successful show. All UK retailers with OATA membership are invited to take a stand at the show – this is a perfect opportunity to put your store on the UK aquatics map.”

As well as finding out what’s new to the market, visitors will be able to learn more about their hobby from experts giving talks at a special seminar area called Speakers Corner, plus a range of other hobbyist focussed features. 

Companies wishing to exhibit at AQUA 2023 and Water Alive and retailers seeking more information about taking a stand should call the organisers on 01892 862848 (office open 9am-5pm Monday-Friday).