Operators and suppliers in the fitness industry have hailed the first SIBEC UK event a resounding success.

The event was the first in the UK dedicated to the local authority, trust and educational sectors.

Initial feedback from post-event questionnaires have revealed that 100 per cent of buyers and 80 per cent of suppliers who responded would definitely consider attending SIBEC UK again next year.

Up to 20, 20-minute meetings were scheduled for each of the attending delegates over the two-day conference, with additional meeting and networking opportunities available throughout the event.

“The positive feedback we have received confirms that we have plugged a gap in the event calendar specifically serving the public sector,” said SIBEC’s event director, Nigel Wallace.

“This is a great platform from which to launch towards our November event for suppliers and operators working in the private and trust markets.”

The results of the 4th Health and Fitness Omnibus Survey (HAFOS) were also reveled at the event.

HAFOS, in association with SIBEC, is commissioned every six months.

The survey showed that people still believed in the value of exercise with nearly half of those questioned believing exercise to be very important. Nationwide, 29 per cent of people ranked physical activity as the number one factor for improving lifestyle.

A good range of equipment was seen as the most important factor in influencing peoples’ decisions to workout at a fitness facility. This was followed by friendly staff and the availability of a wide range of classes.

The sample was selected to be representative of the national population with street interviews conducted in London, Manchester and Sheffield. See Health Club Management for results of HAFOS survey.