Continuing its upward trajectory, the 2017 Green Industry & Equipment Expo (GIE+EXPO), which took place October 18-20 at the Kentucky Expo Center in Louisville, Kentucky, was another record-breaking event.
Organisers say the show topped the last three year's records in both attendance and exhibitors. More than 24,000 people from around the world represented a 7 percent increase over 2016. And, with an indoor footprint equal to 47 White Houses, exhibit space grew 9 percent. In fact, GIE+EXPO was recently named the 10th largest show in North America by Trade Show Executive magazine.
Over the last four years, GIE+EXPO averaged a 12 percent increase in total attendance. In 2017, lawn and landscape pros registrants were up 12 percent over 2016 -making an average increase of 15 percent over last four years. Lawn and garden centre registrations were up 27 percent, and distributor registrations were up 12 percent over 2016.
The show continues to draw new attendees as 34 percent of dealer/retailer registrants, and 44 percent of lawn and landscape pros were first-timers. Both dealer/retailer, and lawn and landscape companies sent an average of at least two employees.
There were over 1,005 exhibits indoors and out at GIE+EXPO and the co-located Hardscape North America (HNA), including 226 new exhibitors. The indoor show floor was 50,000 square feet larger than 2016. The outdoor demonstration area covered 20 acres and attendees had two full days to test equipment.
Dealer Day, Wednesday, October 18, provided focused education - basic and advanced tech training - and facilitated one-on-one time so exhibitors and dealers/distributors could network, and discuss pricing and products. Dealership consultant Bob Clements' People, Process, Profit Boot Camp drew an average of 160 attendees to each of its three sessions.
The Dealer Keynote Luncheon, sponsored by Gravely and STIHL, drew over 400 participants to hear noted economist Alan Beaulieu discuss emerging economic trends and how to take advantage of them.
As a result of the show's continued growth, a new format will be implemented in 2018, allowing contractors an extra day on the show floor. Show dates are October 17-19. The indoor show floor will open exclusively for dealers, retailers and the media at noon on Wednesday. Then, beginning at 3pm and continuing Thursday and Friday, the entire industry will be invited to visit the exhibits. The outdoor demonstration area will be open Thursday and Friday.
"GIE+EXPO continues to grow in size, as well as in its reputation, as the industry's gathering place," said Kris Kiser, president and CEO of the Outdoor Power Equipment Institute. "We've heard the contractors asking for an additional day to visit exhibits and demo equipment. So, in 2018, we're giving them access to the show floor on Wednesday."
