Located in the Flanders region of Belgium, the Port of Antwerp-Bruges serves as a major gateway for international trade, especially for goods entering and leaving Europe. Overall, the port handles a wide range of cargo, including containers, bulk goods, and liquid bulk, and is home to numerous industries and businesses involved in logistics, shipping, and related services. As one of the largest seaports in Europe, the Port of Antwerp-Bruges has a significant presence at AntwerpXL as a key sponsor and host.
The city is strategically situated on the River Scheldt, which provides a direct link to the North Sea and makes it accessible for large ocean-going vessels. In addition, Antwerp is located at the crossroads of major European transport corridors, providing easy access to markets in both Europe and beyond. ‘People love the city. And they love the opportunities it offers for networking as well. So it’s a nice bonus! Especially the opportunity to make relevant contacts in just a few days; you have spoken to everyone in the industry,’ says Jo Van der herten, key account manager at Port of Antwerp-Bruges.
TARGETED BREAKBULK EVENT
AntwerpXL is a highly targeted breakbulk event, ensuring that both exhibitors and attendees are able to connect with key partners. ‘The atmosphere is really nice as it really is the home port for breakbulk and project cargo. And it’s great to see that the community keeps coming together here. We saw a lot of networking during conference hours, as well as afterwards in the beautiful city. And that’s also a great feature,’ says Van der herten.
Exhibiting at the event gives the port and its service providers the opportunity to showcase its capabilities in handling and transporting a wide range of cargo, often including oversized and heavy items. AntwerpXL provides an opportunity for both the port and attendees to connect with stakeholders and industry professionals from around the world, sharing knowledge and expertise, and exploring new business opportunities.
Looking back at the 2022 edition of AntwerpXL, Van der herten, says: ‘I really appreciated the high quality contacts during the event. All relevant attendees were present for a focus on breakbulk. All the attendees and exhibitors are key and active in the market segments. This ranges from shippers, shipping lines to terminal operators, logistics service providers and so on. But all very niche oriented – and that is exactly what makes it a great fair.’
STANDING OUT AT ANTWERPXL
Port of Antwerp-Bruges’ exhibition stand is often one of the many highlights at AntwerpXL, featuring interactive displays and experts discussing the port’s cutting-edge technology and sustainable practices.
In addition, the Port of Antwerp-Bruges’ participation underscores its leadership in the global breakbulk and project cargo industries and its commitment to innovation, sustainability, and customer service. Van der herten says: ‘The Port of Antwerp-Bruges’ booth will be hosted by our team of breakbulk and project cargo experts. And they’re all very eager to connect forwarders, cargo owners, shipping lines terminals, with each other.’
WELCOMING THE INTERNATIONAL MARKET
In particular, the Port of Antwerp-Bruges team is excited for the 2023 edition of AntwerpXL where, for another year, world leaders in the breakbulk and project cargo sectors will gather to share their insights, expertise and solutions. Van der herten comments: ‘2022 was the first event post-COVID and there were still some travel restrictions in place. But 2023 should see the event restored. And while everyone can travel freely again, we hope to welcome both local as well as global players in the market during the conference.’
‘I hope that we will see more international visitors and that people have relevant connections going home with good business connections that can help them grow their own business. We will return in 2024 and stick to the annual rhythm from now on’ Van der herten adds.
Source: Cyann Fielding, AntwerpXL 2023
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