The official numbers show that this year's Golf Industry Show set new records.
Final figures from the event conducted Jan. 31 to Feb. 2 in Orlando reveal that attendance fell just shy of 26,000 at 25,737 to surpass the previous high of 23,099 established last year in Anaheim (an 11.4 percent increase). In terms of qualified buyers – those who can directly influence a purchase decision – 10,553 walked the floor, eclipsing the mark of 8,793 last year (a 20.0 percent increase). The trade show itself was the largest ever with 965 companies represented with exhibits covering 300,900 square feet. Last year’s event in Anaheim featured 291,250 square feet (a 3.2 percent increase).
The Golf Industry Show is a trade show designed for the owners/operators of golf facilities, and the professional members of the golf course and club management industries. Featuring its signature interactive solution centers, the event combines education, networking and solutions for golf course superintendents, owners/operators, general managers, chief operating officers, architects and builders to form one of the largest trade shows in North America.
The Golf Industry Show is presented by the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America, National Golf Course Owners Association and Club Managers Association of America, along with supporting organizations Golf Course Builders Association of America, American Society of Golf Course Architects and the National Golf Foundation.
In a joint statement, Golf Industry Show partners note, “The results of the show clearly indicate the high value it has for both attendees and exhibitors. We know Orlando is traditionally a good draw, but regardless of the location if the quality is not present, then the various attendee groups will not be there. The Golf Industry Show offers a unique blend of high quality exhibition activities and education opportunities.”
Show partners also announced they have signed a letter of agreement to execute a contract extending the show through 2014. Next year’s event will be conducted Feb. 5-7 in New Orleans.
“In just four short years the Golf Industry Show has taken hold as a must-attend event,” show officials note. “The feedback we receive continues to be positive. Attendees and exhibitors appreciate the team approach we promote and the enhancements we make to increase the event’s value. We look forward to next year’s show in New Orleans and to executing a contract that will extend it to 2014.”