US - The International Home and Housewares Show, which has been held in Chicago since 1939, will consider moving from McCormick Place to Las Vegas or Orlando for 2012.
The International Housewares Association’s board said that although the city and state have tried to cut trade show costs, other venues are being reviewed in case Chicago cannot make adequate cuts in time for a 2012 decision.
Association president Phil Brandl says: “Our board members represent exhibitors, who are critically concerned about the costs relating to labour, food, and the operational aspects involved in exhibiting or attending our show at McCormick Place.”
He says that although costs were adjusted to accommodate the show several years ago, they have since risen. “The economy certainly has put pressure on the whole picture,” he adds.
The show, which is booked for the next two years, draws 60,000 attendees and generates an estimated US$75m for the local economy.
