by Bob McGlincy, The Tradeshow Times columnist
Joe Weider’s Olympia Fitness and Performance Weekend is considered to be the World Series of body building. Athletes from around the world travel to compete for millions of dollars in prize money, and to win the argument of “who’s the best.” The show has been held in ten different countries, and seven different cities within the U.S. It was an annual September event in Las Vegas until it moved to Orlando last December, where it had a large international presence—possibly the largest international numbers of any 2020 show.
The event is a combination fan festival, sports competition and tradeshow exposition. People come from all over to compete, participate and enjoy this unique event. But, like any tradeshow, most attendees have little knowledge or realization of what it takes to turn an empty warehouse in a memorable spectacle. Here’s a quick peek behind the scenes: Trucks need to be unloaded, freight moved, the show planned, the floor marked and structures built.
A big shout-out to all the fans, competitors and especially all the Willwork people who make this show happen year after year.
Bob McGlincy is director, business management at Willwork. Willwork creates engaging, energized, and exceptional event experiences. He can be contacted at Bob.McGlincy@willwork.com.
