PCHi 2009 in Guangzhou reports a strong domestic flavour

On the final day of PCHi 2009, China's personal care and home care ingredients suppliers show, organiser Reed Sinopharm Exhibitions has announced that the show is on track to get more than 5,000 visitors which have included domestic companies as well as representatives from internationals including P&G, Estée Lauder and Johnson & Johnson.

Many companies have praised the exhibition's increased footfall on PCHi 2008 and the show's buzzy atmosphere. "It's very good," commented Jin Chun, vp of liquorice derivatives specialist Fanzhi Pharmacy. "It's this company's first time at PCHi but it is very professional and there are very many people here." The high quality of visitors was also noted. "There are definitely more people and they're more technologically focused," said Jerry Wang, China business line manager, personal care and home care for Evonik Degussa China.

However, PCHi's visitor statistics were not immune to the global economic downturn. Wang, like a significant number of others, felt that the show has been less international than 2008's Shanghai-based event and PCHi's predecessor PCIA events in China. "Here we have more local customers. This year there are less Asian customers – they're saving money. We've hardly seen any Korean or Japanese visitors," Wang commented.

On the other hand, organiser RSE is delighted with the volume of local presence. "You will not see more Chinese exhibitors or buyers at any other show," sad Paul Lee vp, RSE. In addition over 20 experts showcased their research in a Technology and Innovatons area while conferences took place throughout the show covering topics such as spa, claims substantiation, regulations and marketing trends.

Next year PCHi will return to Shanghai’s Everbright Convention and Exhibition Centre, running from 10-12 March 2010.