Spring is in the air, and even though this print edition once again has company closure announcements, board shakeup coverage at an industry critical convention center and other general and/or statistical gloom and doom on the industry, the fact is, many positive signs are coming to surface.
Our cover feature on challenging times for Exhibitor Appointed Contractors (EACs), uses language like, “dismal business climate.” How’s that for garnering support for climate change? Unfortunately, a large part of companies returning to profitability depends on other companies going out of business. In an industry overbuilt by 30 percent at its peak, some of the fallout, in the form of company closures, will continue in the months ahead.
Meanwhile, most – some more than others – industry segments are fighting more aggressively for the smaller tradeshow pie. Will this industry infighting affect our ability to fight for the overall marketability of face-to-face as a medium of value into the future? Be sure to read Anna Huddleston’s piece (page B7) titled, “EIC releases Best Practices for Exhibitors.” The Exhibit Industry Council (EIC) lists 11 key points in the 10-page document titled, “Full Disclosure and Control of Exhibitor Costs.” The guide’s aim is to provide exhibitors with a reference frame for better industry standards.
The EIC is currently comprised of several key industry associations and makes recommendations for possible solutions. Check out the Web site and get involved with your industry’s future.
This month’s print edition has extensive coverage of EXHIBITOR2010 held recently here in Las Vegas. From technology and educational offerings to Best of Show and Buyers Choice Awards, we have all the coverage.
Not to be outdone, this year’s MOD Awards once again celebrated excellence in portable and modular exhibit design (see coverage on the section B cover). In addition to the panel of celebrity judges and gourmet food and drink, an announcement was made during the evening that industry design legend Mitchell Mauk would be designing a line for MOD presenting sponsor Abex Exhibit Systems.
Until next month, see you on the Web!
Don Svehla
Group Publisher
