Who's Next - Première Classe beefs up security

By

Anaïs Lerévérend

Published
Jan 14, 2016

A special arrangement for special circumstances. Like its European counterparts, the Paris trade show Who's Next - Première Classe has strengthened security for its next edition. The professional event, scheduled for 22nd to 25th January at the Porte de Versailles exhibition centre, is of course having to adapt to present circumstances.

Greater vigilance will in fact be necessary right from the show's set-up. Starting from when the exhibitors arrive, the Porte de Versailles exhibition centre will organise checks on their vehicles. Before the show's opening and during show hours, the halls will also be inspected daily. Dog handlers will be added to the usual security arrangements organised by Who's Next, as well as beefed-up teams of security staff.

The fashion show is also planning more stringent identity checks. The issue of a name badge with proof of identity was already established practice for visitors, and this season it will be extended to exhibitors too. Even before this check at the show's entrance, metal detectors will be installed, and bags will be searched after access to the exhibition centre.

Finally, a key measure of which many visitors will need to be aware: the circulation of luggage will not be allowed inside the halls. Suitcases will have to be left in storage inside a dedicated marquee outside. Alternatively, visitors will need to plan ahead in order to limit having to bring along luggage as much as possible.

"This will necessarily create a problem for some visitors, especially in terms of access, since it won't be possible to always ensure it will be smooth at certain times," explained Bertrand Foache. "But we hope visitors will understand, we have to do all that's possible for their security," he added.

The circumstances are peculiar but this, according to WSN Développement's co-director, has not, for the time being, significantly affected advance bookings, which have increased compared to January 2015. "After the terrorist attacks, there clearly were worries among some of our contacts, but we feel that things are about to settle back to normal again," concluded Bertrand Foache.