Global Petroleum Show sees impressive attendance despite industry downturn
CALGARY, Alberta -- The Global Petroleum Show (GPS), one of the oil and gas industry’s largest events, ended on a high note, as event officials said that they welcomed 50,000 registered attendees during the week. Despite the economic climate, local and international delegates spent three days, June 9-11, participating in networking events, presentation theatres and world-class exhibits at Calgary’s Stampede Park.
“We are thrilled about the success of this year’s Global Petroleum Show, and we are particularly excited about the growing international presence on the exhibition floor,” said Wes Scott, executive V.P., dmg events, organizers of the show. “This year’s theme – Reimagine. Reinvent. Reposition. – was extremely timely, considering the current market conditions. Delegates from around the world were able to network and discuss the importance of remaining competitive, investing strategically and building a sustainable industry for the long-term.”
GPS opened on June 9 with the inaugural GPS Awards, which recognized and celebrated the leaders who drive impactful change and evolution in the energy industry through technology, corporate social responsibility and industry innovation.
Later that evening, GPS hosted the Opening Night Reception with remarks from Margaret McCuaig-Boyd, Minister of Energy. In her first speaking engagement to the oil and gas sector, as a member of the newly elected NDP government, McCuaig-Boyd shared her outlook on Alberta’s industry and assured delegates that the province remains a worthwhile place to invest.
The Energy Leaders Breakfast on June 10 saw high-level speakers from both industry and government come together to discuss strategic investment strategies during a period of falling oil prices. José Gutman, Director of the National Petroleum, Natural Gas and Biofuels Agency of Brazil; Ebrahim Takolia, Chief Executive of South African Oil & Gas Alliance; and Bill Boyd, Minister of the Economy, Energy and Resources for the Government of Saskatchewan, discussed how to remain competitive in a low commodity price environment.
The show delivered a number of new, interesting features, including the GPS Drilling Site Experience, which offered attendees a unique opportunity to get up close and personal with field operations that many industry workers have never had the chance to see. The presentation theatres were also expanded with the widest range of topics that GPS has offered in recent years, including heavy oil, safety, EOR, environmental and foreign markets.
