GES produces first exhibition at McCormick Place under new legislation

Global Experience Specialists (GES), a leading provider of exhibition, event and retail marketing services announced the successful completion of Orgill 2010 Fall Dealer Market, the first show held in McCormick Place under the new rules passed by the Illinois legislature in May.


The legislation aims to make McCormick Place in Chicago a more competitive and attractive exhibition market for show organizers and exhibitors.

Orgill’s 2010 Fall Dealer Market, held August 12-14, was the first exhibition produced at McCormick Place under phase one implementation of the new rules, which took effect August 1.

To help ensure a successful first show under the new legislation, GES developed a training module about the new rules and provided training to its operations, exhibitor’s services and account management teams to make sure they understood the changes and were able to assist Orgill, its exhibitors and GES’ union partners with any questions regarding the new rules.

“It’s a new day for exhibitions in Chicago,” said John Patronski, executive VP, industry development, GES. “We’re excited about the added value these changes provide to show management and exhibitors. Orgill’s 2010 Fall Dealer Market was the first opportunity for GES and our union partners to move in, set up, tear down and move out a show under the new rules. We appreciate the customer service that our union partners provided to Orgill and its exhibitors. Together, we executed a very successful show, resulting in a more hassle-free and friendly environment with reduced costs.”

Under phase one of the legislation, exhibitors and show management were able to do their own installation and dismantle work, including the use of their own ladders and power hand tools. In addition, the use of two-man crews resulted in reduced costs for hanging signs.

“National Nail appreciates the work that has been done to make Chicago a more competitive exhibition city for exhibitors,” said Paul Mehok, National Nail VP, business development. “The new rules helped our company reduce costs at the Orgill Fall Dealer Market and our workers were friendly and helpful.”

“We are very pleased with the feedback regarding the early stages of phase one implementation that we have received from Orgill and its exhibitors,” said David Causton, general manager McCormick Place. “The convention reform legislation has allowed us to make substantive changes, resulting in decreased costs and increased flexibility for our customers.”

Orgill’s Fall Dealer Market showcases many of the new products, programs and services offered through Orgill and its vendor partners. The Market consists of hundreds of major vendor booths, a Worldwide Sourcing area, ProSource area, pallet specials and coupon specials areas as well as farm and ranch, work wear and office supplies. Exhibitors from more than 60 countries are represented at the Market.