Egerfish: EU lead restrictions are an opportunity for the trade

One of Europe’s leading manufacturers of lead-free fishing weights has called on the tackle industry to embrace the forthcoming restrictions on lead fishing weights, describing the regulatory changes as one of the most significant developments the sector has faced in decades.

Speaking after EFTTEX, Simon Henton (above right), of Czech manufacturer Egerfish, said the exhibition provided the company with an important opportunity to discuss the transition to lead-free alternatives with both existing customers and prospective new partners.

“As a leading producer of lead-free fishing weights, it was important for us to communicate the options already available to the industry now that restrictions on lead weights are finally being introduced,” he said.

He believes the legislation presents an opportunity rather than simply a regulatory challenge, with manufacturers, retailers and distributors needing to prepare for growing demand for environmentally responsible products.

“The move towards lead-free tackle is happening now. Companies that have already invested in proven alternatives are well placed to help the industry through this change, and trade events such as EFTTEX have an important role in ensuring businesses are prepared for the future.”

While visitor numbers at this year’s EFTTEX fell short of expectations, Henton said the quality of business meetings meant the exhibition remained worthwhile. “We would have liked to see more visitors, but despite the reduced attendance the event remains a positive experience for us.”

However, he questioned whether Europe’s flagship trade show has adapted sufficiently to the way the tackle industry now operates. “A European trade exhibition remains important because every industry benefits from exchanging ideas, discussing challenges and doing business together,” he said. “But the reasons EFTTEX was originally established have changed, and unfortunately the show has not evolved to match today’s market.”

He added that the organisers should focus on understanding why many industry professionals no longer attend rather than concentrating solely on existing exhibitors.

“The industry is no longer just a traditional manufacturer-wholesaler-retailer supply chain. E-commerce, direct-to-consumer brands and digital business models have fundamentally changed the market, and any trade show needs to reflect that reality.”

Despite its concerns, Henton confirmed Egerfish will exhibit at next year’s EFTTEX in Prague. “As the event is being held in our home country, it will be easier and less costly for us to attend than in most years. However, we do worry that unless the event continues to evolve, it risks attracting an ever-smaller number of exhibitors and visitors.”

T +42 775 877 881
minarik@egerfish.cz
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