Commercial Vehicle Show has appointed Michael Costain as its new Event Director, to oversee delivery of Britain’s biggest road transport event and help businesses thrive amid the transition to zero emission and automated vehicle technology.
Mike has a proven track record in event management having successfully launched, organised and grown large-scale events during the past 25 years – most recently driving the eight-fold expansion of the InstallerSHOW in just four years to become a major sector event. He also brings expertise from his time as Managing Director at Lyrical Communications, part of B2B event organiser Nineteen Group which was announced as the CV Show’s new strategic partner in July, where he developed successful event strategies.
The new appointment for the show, owned and operated by the partnership between the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) and the Road Haulage Association (RHA), will cement its long-term status as most important business date in the road transport calendar. With fresh insight and a reinvigorated strategic vision, the show will deliver entirely new opportunities for companies and build critical industry awareness in a rapidly changing global industry – underscoring its reputation as the place where business gets done.
The CV Show has run at NEC Birmingham since 2000, and is the most popular place for buyers and operators to meet manufacturers and view their latest products and services. Reflecting the development of the industry over the past quarter century, the 2024 edition will feature an all-new content programme, including new stages, innovative features and zones, live demonstrations, and a host of networking initiatives on the expo floor. Additionally, a record number of new zero-emission truck and van models from world-leading brands will be showcased.
Given the UK’s ambitious net zero targets and rising use of automated vehicles, the show’s role of helping businesses sustain existing partnerships while delivering new growth is more important than ever. It’s a challenge that requires new, engaging and high-impact experiences for attendees and exhibitors – a goal that makes Mike the perfect fit for the show.
Mike Costain, CV Show Event Director, said:
This is a great opportunity to build on the legacy of previous editions of the event and develop new initiatives that will set the standard for the industry. I'm looking forward to working with the team and our partners to create exceptional events that drive innovation and growth in the commercial vehicles sector.
Mike Hawes, SMMT Chief Executive, said:
Just as the commercial vehicle sector embarks on its own new chapter of technological change, it’s fitting the CV Show takes on a new Director with an ambitious vision. Mike’s years of expertise make him the perfect fit to deliver a dynamic, impactful event that drives business for exhibitors and attendees.
Richard Smith, RHA Managing Director, said:
We’re very pleased that Mike Costain is on board to help us continue the evolution and growth of the CV Show. We will deliver a first-class event to drive innovation across our sector at a time of great change, challenge and opportunity. Mike and his team will be key in supporting us to achieve that.
The Commercial Vehicle Show 2025 will be held at NEC Birmingham from 29 April to 1 May 2025.
