Disinfestando – an event with Italian flair

For the two days of 16 & 17 March, the key players from the Italian pest control industry gathered in the northern seaside town of Riccione to participate in Disinfestando. Primarily an exhibition, there were also a couple of supporting topical seminars. Without doubt, Disinfestando was regarded as a big success by all those present.

For many, northern Italy conjures up style and sophistication – as this is home to such well known world-wide brands as Ferrari and Gucci. So it should come as no surprise that this event in the international pest control calendar was not only held in an ultra-modern congress venue, but once inside many of the exhibitor’s stands were stylish and purpose-built.

Organised by the Italian pest control association, Associazione Nazionale della Imprese di Disinfestestazione (ANID), in excess of 1,100 visitors attended over the two days – something of a record as this is only the second time Disinfestando has been organised. As is often the case, a larger number visited on day one. Prior to the second day there was considerable concern as the Italian government had, only a matter of a few weeks earlier, declared 17 March as a national holiday – to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the unification of Italy. However, fears were unfounded and the visitors arrived.

As to be expected the majority of visitors came from within Italy, yet there were international delegates from around Europe and as far away as Australia.

The 31 exhibitors included virtually all the well-known Italian manufacturers and distributors such as GEA. INDIA, OR.MA, Zapi, Bleuline, OSD and Colkim plus the usual multinational organisations like Bayer and BASF. The UK was, as ever, well represented, with stands from Killgerm, P+L Systems and HQ Hygiene Supplies.

For those UK companies who did not have a stand of their own, their products were displayed by their local Italian distributors. One thing which was noticeable by its absence was the usual large array of products designed for bedbug management. Although a growing problem in Italy, this international pest appears to have yet to hit this market with full-force.

Professionalism key
In conversation with Sergio Urizio, president of ANID, he said: “Although this is only the second time we have organised Disinfestando, it is bigger and better than last time. All the best Italian manufacturers are here – it is certainly an excellent showcase for them to display their innovative products, not just to Italian customers, but also to customers worldwide.”

As a trade association ANID, which has over 250 servicing company members which represent 70-75% of the Italian servicing market, is embarking on a three year campaign on the theme of professionalism – professionalism in client servicing, in training, in health & safety and in the manufacturer of products.

Stylish and smart – as displayed on the INDIA stand
Sergio
ANID is strongly promoting professionalism, so says Sergio Urizio BASF Friendly and familiar faces on the BASF stand