According to Chuck Wilson, executive director of NSCA: "This is simply a huge deal for our industry and one we have been discussing for at least ten years. It's exciting to finally be able to say yes to the hundreds of shared exhibitors and attendees of both trade shows who have been asking for us to do this."
As part of further event consolidation, InfoComm will discontinue its Executive Business Conference and become a primary sponsor of the 2008 NSCA Business Conference. The 2007 NSCA Fall Business Conference will be held as scheduled 21-23 October at the Paradise Point Resort in San Diego, California.
InfoComm executive director Randal A. Lemke says: "InfoComm is thrilled to be part of this joint venture. We have collectively set aside our competition in order to promote what is in the interest of exhibitors and attendees. It's a win-win deal for everyone."
The associations will remain separate and staffing is not expected to be impacted. Nancy Emerson, president of NSCA, stated that "NSCA and InfoComm have created new opportunities for our members and both associations will be better positioned to serve their membership. NSCA will continue as an industry leader in education and service to members."
At Integrated Systems Europe, the change in ownership interest will not be visible to exhibitors and attendees. Mike Blackman will continue to lead his team to produce ISE in Amsterdam scheduled for 29-31 January, 2008.
(Jim Evans)
