by Bob McGlincy
Tradeshows are an engine that drives the economy; and that engine is sparking back to life.
Each month the good news regarding the industry gets better and better. More tradeshows and events around the world are happening—proving that safe, live shows are not only possible, but also that people want to attend in-person events.
Tradeshows are increasing in numbers and size. Large crowds, coupled with impressive exhibits are popping up in Shanghai, Dubai, Brisbane and Shenzhen. MWC (pictured above) held an impressive event in February and is planning their Barcelona show for June. Dubai hosted two large shows last month. Both IDEX and Gulfood were well attended and had substantial exhibits.
In the U.S., tradeshows are occurring with increasing regularity, and in more places. Orlando started hosting shows last July. This year shows have occurred in Orlando, Tampa, Palm Beach, Miami Beach, New Orleans, Atlanta, Charlotte, Dallas, Indianapolis, St Louis, Oklahoma City, Des Moines and Scottsdale—and these are just the cities I am aware of. Atlanta hosted Cheersport (pictured left) at the GWCC last month. And while it was not a tradeshow, it brought people to the city (similar to AAU Volleyball in Orlando last July), and it was followed by shows, including Atlanta Shoe, Atlanta Jewelry and the Atlanta Spring Market (which set attendance records).
In the U.S., many states are relaxing restrictions. More cities are opening up, and capacities are increasing; more venues are hosting or planning on hosting live events. Governors are reducing restrictions. Gov. Pritzker in Illinois has stated that McCormick Place may be hosting shows, “as soon as summer.” Gov. Hogan in Maryland has opened the capacity at the Baltimore Convention Center to 50 percent. Nevada’s Gov. Sisolak is reducing restrictions this month, and plans to again in April; casinos are re-opening with seven days/week schedule and World of Concrete is scheduled for June. California’s Gov. Newsome says movie theaters in L.A. may be opening as soon as March 13—and who knows, once more people are allowed in public, maybe California will open conventions centers sometime this summer.
On March 6, the Javits Center (pictured left) vaccinated 13,432 people—said to be a single day record for the state of New York. Last summer, Javits was a field hospital. It is still not open for business, but it is helping out.
This week’s column is a supplement to last week’s more detailed “Good News Report.”
Bob McGlincy is director, business management at Willwork Global Event Services. Willwork creates engaging, energized, and exceptional event experiences. He can be contacted at Bob.McGlincy@willwork.com
