Halco Tackle celebrates first ever EFTTEX award

Australian lure supplier Halco Tackle has described winning its first-ever product-related European award as a significant milestone after an EFTTEX show that exceeded the company’s expectations.

Returning to the exhibition for the first time since 2019, the Fremantle-based business used the event to reconnect face-to-face with its European customers and strengthen relationships across the region.

“Winning an award is always a great feeling,” said Halco’s Global Sales and Account Manager, Tim, Carter (right in picture) of its Karcass Micro Jig metal lure. “The work and time put into every product is sometimes overlooked. It is our first category win in Europe, which is very satisfying.”

However, the company stressed that industry awards are only one part of the commercial equation. Carter added: “An award is a pointer that you’re on the right track, but there are no guarantees. Many factors outside an award determine success, including marketing, consumer demand and trade support.”

Despite concerns over dealer attendance, Carter said the show performed better than anticipated. “It was slightly ahead of expectations, although obviously we would have liked to see more dealers attend. Having not attended EFTTEX for a while, we thought it was important to engage with our current European customers face-to-face, and the show provided that interface in one convenient location.”

While acknowledging that the exhibition remains ‘a mere shadow’ of its former glory days, Carter believes there are encouraging signs for the future. “We came with lower expectations, and the show beat those, which is pleasing. If some of the bigger companies were to get behind the event, it could be a great show again.”

Carter believes that the organiser may need to review the event format, noting that the final day attracted relatively light footfall. “If dealer turnout remains low, the question has to be asked whether the show should only be two days. Day three was very quiet.”

Away from the exhibition floor, Halco reported a strong year, driven by continued investment in marketing and impressive growth in the United States. “Sales have been good, with strong growth for us, particularly in the US market. That has probably been the most pleasing aspect of our business in recent times and is incredibly important for us long term.”

The Australian market, meanwhile, remains steady despite economic and regulatory pressures. “It is treading water at the moment. Inflation is rising, fuel prices are high and the government could best be described as lukewarm towards the angling public. Given those factors, the market is holding up okay.”

Looking ahead, Halco remains optimistic, particularly as its US business continues to expand. “We are optimistic for the future. With the US market growing for us, we hope to see upside for some time to come.”

However, the company indicated that the cost of travelling from Australia means annual attendance at EFTTEX is unlikely. “It is more likely we will attend every second or third year. The costs to display coming from Australia are very high, and attending every year does not seem a viable option on the current numbers attending.”