Introduction to the Trade Show World

For Immediate Release
Written by: @LiJacksIntl

As a 14-yr veteran in the trade show industry, I thought it was time that I start a trade show blog. For some of you who have no idea what "trade shows" are, allow me to explain:

First, Trade Shows will normally take place in a convention center or hotel exhibit hall.
Secondly, Corporations or Brands will have a booth from 10'x10' space up to 50'x100' or larger in order to conduct business at the convention centers.
Third, Corporations or Brands will launch, demonstrate and/or sell their products to attendees who are potential buyers and customers.
Fourth, Trade Shows are typically divided into 2 categories: Professional vs Retail. Professional Trade Shows are open to industry related attendees only, whereas Retail is open to end users or the general public.
Lastly, Trade Shows are produced by different event & production companies, and each is specific to a vertical market.

The trade show industry is currently a $13 Billion industry and growing by about 4% annually.  Source: IBIS World http://www.ibisworld.com/industry/default.aspx?indid=1502 

I have attended a minimum of 336 trade shows since 1999 and am currently a regular at the Las Vegas Convention Center, Sands Expo and Mandalay Bay Conference Center.  Follow me for the latest trade show news from a different perspective, through my eyes.  Not only will I cover the boring stuff, and yes, the important stuff, but I'll take you into the fun and exciting life of the trade show world that you don't normally read about in those trade news.

For more of the important stuff:
http://eventplanning.about.com/od/productionentertainment/a/Key-Revenues-And-Expenses-In-The-Trade-Show-Business-Model.htm

http://www.profitabletradeshow.com/wp/w17.shtml
https://research.stlouisfed.org/fred2/series/REVEF56192ALLEST
http://www.tradeshowexecutive.com/archive/industry-news/convention-centers-worldwide-grow-size-and-economic-impact-according-just-released-report-worlds-top-convention-centers/