David Audrain Takes the Torch from Lew Shomer as New SISO Executive Director

At the annual business meeting lunch during the Society of Independent Show Organizer’s CEO Summit, held April 13-16 on Kiawah Island, S.C., the association’s chair, Charlie McCurdy, revealed that Exposition Development Company (ExpoDevCo) was named SISO’s new management company and David Audrain, CEO of ExpoDevCo, as new executive director.  

“I’ve been humbled … I’ve been very lucky these last couple of years to have the support of SISO,” Audrain said.

Trade Show Industry Grows by Modest 1.8 Percent in 2014

The Center for Exhibition Industry Research released its full-year 2014 Index Report indicating that the trade show industry grew by a modest 1.8 percent last year, which was slightly less than the 2 percent originally predicted.

The growth in 2014 also was 1 percentage point higher than 2013’s total growth.

"We are optimistic for the performance of the industry overall this year. Economic and job growth should continue to drive expansion in exhibitions," said CEIR Economist Allen Shaw, Ph.D., chief economist for Global Economic Consulting Associates.

Spokane Convention Center Unveils $55 Million Expansion

The Spokane (Wash.) Convention Center finished its $55-million expansion in late February, adding 91,000 square feet of meeting and exhibit space.

Now, the facility overlooking the Spokane River features 120,000 sq. ft. exhibit hall, as well as additional ballroom and up to 32 meeting rooms. Most of the new space features either second-level or ground-level views of the river thanks to a completely glass north side.

Exhibitor Education + a Lead Management Plan = Success!

Submitted by rwimberly@tsnn.com on Fri, 04/10/2015 - 21:26

Your booth space is reserved. It’s in a great location on the show floor and has the potential for maximum exposure and foot traffic. Now is the time to create your lead management plan to drive traffic to your booth.

A solid plan for your next event starts well before the first badge is scanned in your booth. Capturing the lead

is only 10% of the equation. By taking advantage of educational and marketing opportunities, you are ensuring a successful event.

David Lawton

David Lawton, EVP of Sales at Convention Data Services has over 20 years of experience in the tradeshow industry with 6 of those years as an active exhibitor at numerous shows each year. His diverse background also includes experience in sales, customer support, design and product development. ConventionDataServices.com. 

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NO WISH IS TOO BIG AT THE ORANGE COUNTY CONVENTION CENTER
Overview: The award-winning Orange County Convention Center (OCCC) goes the extra mile to make every day extraordinary by offering customer service excellence and industry-leading partnerships. From their dedicated in-house Rigging team to their robust Exhibitor Services, The Center of Hospitality brings your imagination to life by helping you host unforgettable meetings and events. With more than 2 million square feet of exhibit space, world-class services and a dream destination, we are committed to making even the most ambitious conventions a reality. In October 2023, the Orange County Board of County Commissioners voted to approve allocating Tourist Development Tax funding for the $560 million Phase 5A completion of the OCCC. The Convention Way Grand Concourse project will include enhancements to the North-South Building, featuring an additional 60,000 square feet of meeting space, an 80,000- square-foot ballroom and new entry to the North-South Building along Convention Way. “We are thrilled to begin work on completing our North-South Building which will allow us to meet the growing needs of our clients,” said OCCC Executive Director Mark Tester. “As an economic driver for the community, this project will provide the Center with connectivity and meeting space to host more events and continue to infuse the local economy with new money and expanding business opportunities.” Amenities: The Center of Hospitality goes above and beyond by offering world-class customer service and industry-leading partnerships. From the largest convention center Wi-Fi network to custom LAN/WAN design, the Center takes pride in enhancing exhibitor and customer experience.  The OCCC is the exclusive provider of electricity (24-hour power at no additional cost), aerial rigging and lighting, water, natural gas and propane, compressed air, and cable TV services. Convenience The Center is at the epicenter of the destination, with an abundance of hotels, restaurants, and attractions within walking distance. Pedestrian bridges connect both buildings to more than 5,200 rooms and is within a 15-minute drive from the Orlando International Airport. The convenience of the location goes hand-in-hand with top notch service to help meet an event’s every need. Gold Key Members The OCCC’s Gold Key Members represent the best of the best when it comes to exceptional service and exclusive benefits for clients, exhibitors and guests. The Center’s Gold Key memberships with Universal Orlando Resort, SeaWorld Orlando and Walt Disney World greatly enhance meeting planner and attendee experiences offering world-renowned venues, immersive experiences and creative resources for their events. OCCC Events: This fiscal year, the OCCC is projected to host 168 events, 1.7 million attendees, and $2.9 billion in economic impact.  The Center’s top five events during their 2022-2023 fiscal year included:  AAU Jr. National Volleyball Championships 2023 200,000 Attendees $257 Million in Economic Impact MEGACON 2023 160,000 Attendees $205 Million in Economic Impact Open Championship Series 2023 69,500 Attendees $89 Million in Economic Impact Sunshine Classic 2023 42,000 Attendees $54 Million in Economic Impact Premiere Orlando 2023 42,000 Attendees $108 Million in Economic Impact
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