How usual suspects and pleasant surprises combined at EFTTEX Awards

The usual suspects were joined by some pleasant surprises at a rejuvenated EFTTEX and its Best New Product Awards in Budapest.

While the likes of Pure Fishing, Shimano and Far Bank Enterprises picked up their fair share of accolades on awards night, lesser known brands that included Plastools of Italy (main picture), Dinsmores (UK), Cralusso (Hungary), Finntrail (Estonia) and adventer & fishing (Czech Republic) made multiple visits to the podium. Returning UK exhibitor, Sonik Sports, also enjoyed outstanding success with its newly launched Nytro brand.

Plastools picked up three product awards and one for the best booth to become the unexpected darlings of the show.

One of the biggest cheers of the night was reserved for Ukranian-based tackle supplier, Ibis – owner of the Favorite rod brand – whose team travelled from their war-torn country to take part. Favorite picked up the prize for best coastal rod for the Black Swan in the saltwater category.

The occasion was also special for former EFTTEX General Manager Janet Doyle, who was recognised for her contribution to the success of the show in the past.

It would be fair to say that the return of EFTTEX after a four-year break – spearheaded by Istvan Pal, Managing Director of Energofish – surprised many pundits by its success. Although smaller in format and missing the major players from the industry, there was a buzz of activity that lasted throughout all three days of the show.

The theme of the show – Let’s Get Back Together – ran throughout the occasion, delivering not only a sense of business being done, but fun and enjoyment in accomplishing it.