MacExpo to target 'switchers'

Posted on 19 Sep 2002 at 12:51

MacExpo, the UK's largest Mac show, is attempting to broaden its horizons this year, with a concerted effort to attract Windows users considering switching to the Mac.

Plans include getting Mac-using celebrities to talk about why they use Apple machines and a series of seminars on the theme of 'Is your computer just too PC?'. Seminars will include creating home movies and how the Mac can perform tasks as efficiently if not more efficiently than a PC.

Show director Richard Hease said, 'This is a serious attempt to alert consumers and educate them to take steps to make a Mac their next PC purchase - especially in the run up to Christmas. At MacExpo 2002, visitors can get their hands on Macs to understand how they work and the real power that these machines have as workhorses, digital hubs and truly creative machines. Not only is the hardware on show but true "Switchers" can find out about the software available and every accessory that they'll ever need.'

However the shows organisers promise that existing Mac users will not get short shrift. An expanded series of seminars and workshops will be held, both for home users and professionals. Seminars to be held in two specially constructed theatres will cover subjects such as the digital darkroom, the intelligent office and image editing. Home users will be served with sessions including movie making, creating DVDs and the home office.

MacWarehouse and MacUser are sponsoring 'The Digital Hub: Go-digital!', a new arena that will showcase the digital lifestyle and the products that make it work, while the new Developers Feature will showcase 'independent, cutting-edge software designed to push the boundaries of what Macs can achieve'.

Apple's stand will undoubtedly be the event's main attraction but other major exhibitors include Microsoft, Iomega, HP, Xerox, Hermstedt, Oki, Sony and LaCie. And if last year's show is anything to go buy, there will be plenty of opportunity to pick up bargains from the various resellers' stands.

MacExpo is at the Business Design Centre , Islington, London from 21 to 23 November. Tickets are £5, £10 on the door.

Author: Simon Aughton