The Outdoor Power Equipment Institute (OPEI), the Professional Landcare Network (PLANET), and the Professional Grounds Management Society (PGMS) announced today that they will combine their two trade shows, the OPEI International Lawn, Garden & Power Equipment Expo (EXPO) and the Green Industry Conference and Expo (GIC/GIE).
EXPO, owned and operated by OPEI, is an international trade show that attracts over 20,000 retailers each year, featuring a 20-acre outdoor demonstration area, over 500 indoor exhibits, and educational sessions for dealers. The GIC/GIE is presented by PLANET and PGMS, and features a comprehensive lineup of educational sessions, networking events, facility tours, product demonstrations, and cutting-edge exhibits. This alliance creates tremendous opportunity for industry professionals and suppliers from chemical and equipment manufacturers to retail service providers and distributors.
“This alliance is a great opportunity for OPEI, PLANET, and PGMS. Between the 3 days of outdoor demonstrations and the educational sessions being offered, there will be a greater attraction to a wider audience," says OPEI president and c.e.o. Bill Harley.
The first combined show will be held in Louisville, KY in 2007. The key elements of both trade shows will be maintained. The 20-acre outside demonstration area, a unique feature of EXPO, will continue providing attendees with a try-before-you-buy opportunity. PLANET and PGMS will continue its lawn care, interior plantscaping, landscape management, and design/build/installation educational sessions, as well as a wide range of green industry tracks presented by seasoned industry leaders.
“We have a winning situation for everyone, most importantly for exhibitors and attendees,” concurs Dan Ariens, president, The Ariens Company. “In terms of cost and access to potential business, bringing EXPO and GIC/GIE together has a tremendously positive impact.”
Both groups look forward to the synergy created by capitalizing each show’s strengths to better serve the needs of the lawn, landscaping and garden industry.
For more information about EXPO, please contact OPEI at 703/549-7600 or Sellers Expositions at 800/558-8767 or visit www.opei.org.