Issue link: https://tradeshowexecutive.epubxp.com/i/65565
TRENDING & SPENDING An Insider's Perspective How is the economy impacting the exposition industry? Tis month, five industry experts give you projections and early warning signs based on registration patterns, exhibit space commitments, long- and short-term bookings, and discussions with peers and customers. Together with the rest of Trade Show Executive's Exposition Forecasting Board, they have insider knowledge about the true performance of the majority of U.S. trade shows. And just like economists, they don't always agree. Teir diverse opinions, however, provide valuable insights to help you formulate your plans. Darlene Gudea, PRESIDENT Trade Show Executive Media Group Chris Brown EXECUTIVE VP National Association of Broadcasters Caution Prevails "Aſter some more consistent and stable news on the economic front in the First Quarter, news has been spottier of late. Continued concerns over the state of the economies in Western Europe and a still somewhat anemic jobs situation in the U.S. are likely to mean more caution in the second half of 2012. Te upcoming U.S. elec- tions may also lead to caution as rhetoric over the economy, national debt, and taxes heats up — all of which in turn will affect the confidence of the business community. "Overall, trade shows continue to fare well, riding good momentum coming out of the end of 2011 and early 2012. However, we may see that momentum slow a bit unless the economic news stabilizes again or makes a turn for the better." Frank Chow, CHIEF ECONOMIST Trade Show Executive Media Group SPONSORED BY David Loechner PRESIDENT Nielsen Expositions Nancy Walsh EXECUTIVE VP Reed Exhibitions James Rooney EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Mass. Convention Center Authority Gregg Caren SENIOR VP, STRATEGIC BUS. SMG Terence Donnelly VP OF SALES Experient Skip Cox PRESIDENT & CEO Exhibit Surveys Joseph V. Popolo, Jr. CEO Freeman Election Year Uncertainty "While an election year always seem to apply a layer of uncertainty upon forecast- ing and economic dynamics, that uncertainty may reach new heights this year. As the process unfolds, decision-makers will be carefully assessing the emerging political outcomes which in turn will likely influence spend, product launches, job creation and event participation. Tat process and timeline signals sustained caution rather than an aggressive spend or recovery. Accordingly, look for flat or modest Tird and Fourth Quarter results." Jack Chalden ASSOCIATE The Augusta Group 24 May 2012 | Trade Show Executive