Australian exhibitor calls for big companies to support EFTTEX

A double award-winner at this year’s EFTTEX has reiterated his call on big players to follow the example of Pure Fishing and Mustad and put their weight behind the European show and also advocated a move to a two-day event.

Speaking to Angling International, Pat Levy, Managing Director of Australian lure supplier Gillies – owner of the world renowned Tassie Devil brand – praised the event in Barcelona as an improvement on 2025, but admitted that the show ‘needs to grow.’

Despite a positive experience, Levy believes visitor numbers still need to increase and has called on major industry players to provide stronger support for the exhibition. “We would love to see more attendees and that will only come if the big companies get behind their industry, like Pure and Mustad have in Europe.”

He also believes EFTTA is becoming more important as the tackle trade consolidates. “A trade association is always important and probably more relevant now as the industry gets smaller.”

Looking ahead, Levy said he would support a streamlined two-day format for the exhibition, while confirming he will return for the next EFTTEX in Prague.

“At this year’s show, we wanted to catch up with our current distributors, show them new products and look for distributors in countries where we are not represented. We were successful in making new contacts.”

Gillies continues to enjoy its strongest European presence in Scandinavia and the UK, but reported interest from additional territories during the Barcelona event.

One of the highlights of the show was Gillies’ success in the EFTTEX awards programme. It went one better than its success last year, with two awards this time around with its Slimline Level 150 Inflatable Life Jacket and the Bluewater Minnow – Pro Series hard bait. Pleased with the recognition, Levy was quick to credit his product development team.

“It’s always good to win awards, but the credit should go to the guys back home who spend their time developing new products every year. Our success reinforces our reputation as an innovative supplier focused on bringing fresh products to market.”

T: +61 419 317 681
pat@jmgillies.com.au
www.jmgillies.com.au