Exhibitions |
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In the days long before
multi-channel TV, or the Internet, exhibitions were an
effective way of showcasing telecommunication products and
services.
Photo: GPO stand at
Earls Court © BT Heritage 1960 TCB 417 E24782.
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Overview
In 1949 the Post Office Exhibition stand was designed as a permanent
feature at the Birmingham British Industries Fair held at Castle
Bromwich. BIF fairs were held
in Birmingham and London (Olympia), from about 1920 to 1960, and were organised by
the 'Department of Overseas Trade.'
On 10th April 1961 the Postmaster General inaugurated a particular 'Telephone Week'
during which period the public was invited to visit telephone exchanges.
'Telephone Weeks' pre-dated this occurence and these events later became 'Telecom Fortnights.'
The Daily Mail Ideal Home Exhibition was also a regular event at which
Post Office Telecommunications had a dedicated stand.
New marketing initiatives lead to the creation of 'The Buzby Special' -
a travelling exhibition.
Telecom Fortnights
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'Telephone Fortnights' were held annually
during which period the latest telephones could be marketed
and telephone exchanges were opened to visitors.
Buzby sticker:
British Telecom Fortnight 7-19 July 1980 © BT Heritage.
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Special Exhibitions
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Special exhibitions, such as the Radio
Exhibition at 'Earls Court', were useful in promoting the
work of the Post Office.
Photo: Radio and the Post Office, 1962 Earls Court © BT
Heritage TCB 473P 8062.
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London 2012
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Planning for the London 2012 Olympics
started as early as 2008 while the bids were taking place.
Although not a regular exhibition it was a demonstration
that BT could co-ordinate and deliver services efficiently.
Booklet: London 2012 (PHME 55321) © British
Telecommunications plc 2008.
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Daily Mail Ideal Home
Exhibition
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Post Office Telecommunications and then
British Telecom was a regular exhibitor at the annual show.
Scans: Daily Mail Ideal Home Exhibition Booklet 1972.
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The Buzby Special
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'The Buzby Special' was a travelling
exhibition of telephone marketing which did a whistle-stop
tour of many railway towns for a number a years.
Leaflet scan: The Buzby Special 1978.
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