Industry Experts to Discuss the Impact of Tariffs on Trade Shows and Live Events
by Mark Hebert, Exhibit City News
The EDPA Las Vegas Chapter is launching its 2025 educational programming with “Tariff Talk,” a virtual discussion on February 18 at 10 a.m. PT / 1 p.m. ET. This event will explore the past, present, and future impact of tariffs on the trade show and live events industry, featuring insights from Kevin Carty, EVP at Classic Exhibits, and Rob Cohen, VP at Display Supply & Lighting.
Why Tariffs? Why Now?
The idea for “Tariff Talk” emerged from the December 2024 EDPA Las Vegas board meeting, where leaders recognized a lack of industry-wide understanding of tariffs and their consequences.
“We felt like tariffs and how they affect the trade show and live events industry wasn’t something that many of us have a working knowledge of,” said Jen LaBruzza, Industry Advocate and Event Organizer. “I knew that Kevin Carty and Rob Cohen had been working to make this a more visible topic for our industry. Given that the stage was being set for more tariffs to come, we asked Kevin and Rob to share their work and insight.”
What to Expect
This live discussion will focus on the tariffs most relevant to the industry and their effects on exhibitors, event professionals, and suppliers. Carty and Cohen have been actively involved in Washington, D.C., working to ensure the industry’s concerns are heard.
“Not all tariffs are important for the trade show and live events industry,” LaBruzza explained. “Kevin and Rob have focused in on those that are relevant to us and have invested a good amount of time and effort in getting those before the right people in Washington DC, especially over the last five years.”
Why This Matters
Tariffs are often designed to level the playing field, but in many cases, they create financial burdens for American companies and workers.
“While tariffs are intended to level the playing field, they more often punish American workers and companies,” LaBruzza noted. “We are excited to learn more about where we have been, where we are currently, and where we are going with tariffs and their effects on our industry.”
How to Register
This event is free, but registration is required. Secure your spot now by signing up at the link below:
Don’t miss this opportunity to gain firsthand insights from industry leaders on an issue shaping the future of trade shows and live events.
