During the Center for Exhibition Industry Research’s (CEIR) annual outlook conference, Predict, the Society of Independent Show Organizers (SISO) confirmed a contribution of up to $100,000 over the next five years to support the ongoing creation of research, which fuels the exhibition industry and reinforces the ongoing value of face-to-face events. The gesture was met enthusiastically by the nearly 200 executives attending the conference in New York City on Sept. 12.
“We know and understand that all of the research that CEIR produces comes at a cost. The SISO board of directors believes in the important work CEIR produces and recognizes the value that CEIR provides the industry through its renowned research, including the annual CEIR Index. We are pleased to make this contribution in support of CEIR’s mission and strategic goals,” said David Audrain, CEM, chairman, SISO and president and CEO, Clarion Events North America.
SISO’s contribution will help CEIR continue producing research that is vital to validate the primacy of exhibitions. CEIR is dedicated to advancing the growth, awareness and value of exhibitions and other face-to-face marketing events by producing and delivering research tools that enable stakeholder organizations to enhance their ability to meet current and emerging customer needs, improve their business performance and strengthen their competitive position.
“On behalf of CEIR’s board of directors, we are very grateful to SISO for their contribution. This unprecedented decision by a sister organization in our industry will greatly benefit CEIR’s long-term research initiatives to provide the critical research and information that businesses need to support exhibitions as a vital marketing medium,” said Greg Ortale, chair, CEIR and president and CEO, Greater Houston Convention and Visitors Bureau.
SISO, founded in 1990, is the largest organization in the U.S. that represents the for-profit show organizer. It has more than 160 member companies that range in size from small hotel meetings and exhibitions to organizations with billion-dollar global portfolios representing just about every industry sector.
