Key Counts May Presage Surprisingly Strong Expo

The number of companies signed up to send representatives to Graph Expo and Converting Expo 2002, approximately 4,838, is more than 14% ahead of the count at a comparable time in advance of the show in the year 2000, which was the most successful show in the series up to that time.

Seminar registration figures for 2002 are running significantly ahead of those at the 2000 event, and pre-registration counts for seminars are ahead of levels for the Print 01 exposition last fall, a record for such programs at a comparable time in advance of the show dates.

These figures were released by the Graphic Arts Show Company (GASC), Reston, Va., producer of Graph Expo and Converting Expo 2002, which is being held October 6-9 at McCormick Place South in Chicago.

"We feel that these are very positive statistics, reflecting the commitment and fortitude of graphic communications companies in our industry," notes Regis J. Delmontagne, president of GASC. "It indicates that the show is still very high on corporate priority lists and is deeply integrated into printers' purchasing and business plans this year."

The 2000 event was statistically a very strong one for the annual gathering of graphic communications professionals, manufacturers, suppliers, consultants, designers, dealers, and technical developers. The show drew about 46,000 people to view 575 company exhibits, covering 480,000 net square feet of exhibit space.

The 2002 event reflects the current economic and cultural conditions, including tightened budgets, travel restrictions, business consolidations, and a less-than-robust stock market.

This year's event will consist of a single large exhibit hall covering 380,000 square feet, hosting nearly 550 exhibitors; expected attendance is about 40,000.

In the past few weeks, some exhibitors have requested more booth space.