Funworld October 2009

How to tackle the Las Vegas Convention Center
by Marion Hixon

Here's a guide to conquering the bustling aisles of the Las Vegas Convention Center South Halls—which will be filled with more than 1,000 exhibitors come November. Pete Barto, IAAPA’s director of exhibition, marketing, and sales, shares tips and tactics on how attendees can get the most out of the week.

What are the major differences between the Las Vegas Convention Center (LVCC) and previous IAAPA Attractions Expo host sites?
The biggest difference is obviously that we’re on two floors this year; however, some of the challenges we faced with being in two different buildings in Atlanta in 2005 and 2006 won’t apply because they’re both so easily accessible in Vegas. There are three points of entry connecting the two halls and escalators throughout the complex for easy movement between floors.

What’s new and exciting on the trade show floor this year?
There are always great new products and services that debut at our show, but one of the great new member services on the trade show floor will be the “You Are Here” interactive map and directory kiosks, which will be available for every person who steps foot inside the LVCC. The kiosks benefit both exhibitors and attendees, because they locate products and booths, education sessions, and amenities like restaurants and restrooms. The best part: The kiosks print a map detailing directions from the exact point at which you’re standing to where you want to go.

How should people walk the floor, and do you have special tips for newcomers?
� Target one floor at a time and cover that entire floor before moving to the other.

�� Walk the entire length of the hall and move to the next aisle once you get to the end. Don’t change aisles between booths or you could miss something.

�� Establish initial contact, share your information, and then move on so you can see everyone. It’s common to spend the first two or three days walking and meeting exhibitors. That’s why Friday’s called “deal day.” After you canvas the entire floor, you can have more serious discussions with companies.

�� Take advantage of the Expo card reader! All attendees get a magnetized card with their information on it. Exhibitors with card readers can scan these and contact you with more information later.

�� If you’re a newcomer, tell exhibitors it’s your first time at the show. Give them information about your facility so they know how their product or service can work for you.

�� Despite the fact that all aisles and booths are carpeted, you must wear comfortable shoes—I can’t stress that enough. A lot of exhibits will set up lounges in their booths so attendees can rest their weary feet. When given the opportunity, take a load off! And make sure to eat a good breakfast and lunch—it’s going to be a busy four days.

How is the trade show floor set up?
We try to divide the floor into product categories. New this year is a special section dedicated to coin-op games. We also have areas for theming and high-tech, inflatable products and services, and the AIMS (Amusement Industry Manufacturers & Suppliers) International Pavilion. Our outdoor area is very convenient and impossible to miss as people come off the monorail and pass it to enter the LVCC. And as always, we have the First-Time Exhibitors Pavilion. To date, 137 companies have told us they’re bringing a new product or service to the trade show!

For more details on IAAPA Attractions Expo 2009, visit www.IAAPA.org/expo/attractions.