I’m not quite sure it is anything more than tough times requiring tough decisions.
The four of them accounted for considerable square footage on the show floor, which translates into dollars for SEMA, TIA and Connvex (which runs show operations). There are rumors that some other large-space exhibitors will be missing, as well, but these are street rumors and not from verifiable sources. But those are important bucks because the associations rely on this event for a bunch of their operating funds.
Everything here depends on the economy, on cost vs. ROI, which I discussed in my July 2008 column. If the economy stays below grade, I would expect all manner of trade shows – from computers to consumer goods to automotive goods – to get hit.
Show attendance for SEMA and the three other shows that make up Automotive Aftermarket Industry Week in Las Vegas will surely be down compared to last year. We never see definitive attendance figures, so we have to use good old SWAG estimates. It was suggested that attendance this year will be comparable to the post-9/11 shows. Some have told me they think it will be worse. We’ll know based on the elbow room available in the aisles.
Our own schedules show a steep decline in the number of post-show cocktail parties and events scheduled. People are pulling it in, folks.
The proof of whether this is a legit trend to be concerned about or an economy-based decision by these companies will come when things level out and people feel some confidence in the economy.
Look, SEMA of all aftermarket groups, has put a lot of effort into making the show more than just about booths and babes. It is offering a great array of educational seminars (TIA????), and has taken steps to add value to every part of the show equation. My hats off to them, because I have seen other trade groups stare into the abyss and act like nothing is wrong.
Trade associations have a tough row to hoe, to be sure, and the really good ones provide tangible benefits and value – and forward thinking.
If you have comments to share, send to me at [email protected].
– Jim Smith
