The London Golf Show has consolidated its position as Europe’s premier consumer golf show with the appointment of an internationally-renowned businessman as the new chairman.
Colin Brunton, 56, made his name in the UK and Canada before establishing himself in Dubai, where he is currently chairman of Red Entertainment Distribution, which looks after Electronic Arts, Eidos, Universal Vivendi, Activision and other interactive software companies.
He began as a journalist and has worked for The Financial Times and The Observer. A stint in the Middle East for Time Magazine, after assignments for other publications, led to his decision to acquire, build up, and sell on various publications. More recently he spent 10 years as president and owner of The Copyright Company and Videomaster, in the Middle East, running Warner Brothers, Paramount, Universal, Dreamworks, BBC and other film and video distribution in the region.
The London Golf Show returns to ExCeL-London on 27-30 April 2006 and Brunton said, “The show’s first-year achievement as the biggest European consumer show launch suggested great things for the future – and it was an attractive opportunity.
“I’m delighted to be associated with a group of professionals who have a clear idea of what can be done and how to achieve the objectives.
“This year’s show was a resounding success and I am hopeful, with a stronger board, we can bring the necessary discipline to the financial planning which will ensure the show’s long-term growth.”
He added: “I have spent the first few weeks working with the management of ExCeL-London – which is an ideal venue for the London Golf Show – as well as with the other companies, including exhibitors, who were instrumental in making the show a success.
“I am hoping the strong relationships built at the time of the first show will be maintained going forward.”
The London Golf Show’s marketing director, Andy Barwell, who was instrumental in introducing Brunton to the company, explained, “Colin brings with him a wealth of commercial, board-level experience in both the UK and abroad.
“His appointment provides the company with a stability demanded by the modern business environment and strengthens our standing. He also has six months with which to work in advance of next April’s show.”
The first London Golf Show, at ExCeL-London in April 2005, proved to be a resounding success and bookings are currently running 200 per cent up on the corresponding period last year.
London Golf Show 2006 www.thelondongolfshow.com
Global Edition
