Online registration is now open for the 2009 GIE+EXPO (Green Industry & Equipment Expo), which will be held in Louisville Oct. 29-31. Go to www.gie-expo.com for updates on events planned for the tradeshow, as well as information on hotels and exhibitors.
GIE+EXPO is sponsored by the Outdoor Power Equipment Institute (OPEI), Professional Landcare Network (PLANET) and Professional Grounds Management Society (PGMS). It is now the 14th largest tradeshow in America, according to Trade Show Executive magazine.
Bill Harley, president and CEO of OPEI, says many of the event’s popular features will return in 2009, including the three-day outdoor demonstration area, free concerts, the Dealer Experience and the Green Industry Conference. He said plans are in the works for new surprises, which will be announced through the media and the website.
Kevin O’Donnell, superintendent of grounds at Villanova University was one of the 19,000 participants at the 2008 show. “GIE+EXPO is an effective use of my time because not only do I see products and equipment I can use immediately at my facility but I also see equipment that I didn’t know existed,” he says. “The show sparks ideas that will help me in the future. It is an opportunity to look at equipment, ask questions and touch it … I’m always trying to provide better value to my employer. Seeing the diversity of new products helps with that. For example, I found commercial-quality Christmas decorations at the ’08 show. You would have to attend many tradeshows to find the diversity of products available at GIE+EXPO.”
Dale Magie, general manager of the West Chester Lawn & Garden dealership in Liberty Township, Ohio, says, “GIE+EXPO 2008 gave us an opportunity to see new products, visit with the manufacturers and evaluate the opportunities they offered. We looked at specific products and operated them in the demo area, and we talked with suppliers about their programs and how they would work in our market. During the Dealer Experience we had great meetings and networking. The mix of different sizes of dealerships gives us ideas for our own business.”
Among the 625 exhibitors in 2008 was American Brick Saw Co. Tony Czubernat, vice president sales & marketing at American Brick Saw, says, “If you believe in networking and making contacts, this is the show for you.”
In addition to the Web site, information can be obtained by contacting Sellers Expositions at 800-558-8767, 812-949-9200 or info@gie-expo.com.