Graph Expo on Track Toward Exhibit Space Sellout

CHICAGO, Ill.­­—On Feb. 6, the Graphics Arts Show Company (GASC) reported that about 85 percent of GRAPH EXPO’s exhibit space has been sold, positioning this year’s show to exceed the size of its 2006 predecessor. This year’s show will take place September 9-12 in the South Building of the McCormick Place Complex in Chicago, Ill.

This is a significant trend since the 2006 show was the largest GRAPH EXPO since 2000. Based on the increasing momentum, GRAPH EXPO is looking to be a sellout, filling the South Building of McCormick Place. While the total number of companies reserving space is slightly fewer compared to this same time last year, exhibitors have reserved more space. Most of the large spaces on the show floor have been taken, although the remaining booths are flexible enough to accommodate new exhibitors seeking to commit to the show.

“The strong growth of this show, year after year, is dramatic considering the significant challenges this industry has faced in recent years, and reflects the outstanding success exhibitors of all types have achieved at GRAPH EXPO last year,” said Ralph J. Nappi, president of GASC.

Among the highlights of the show’s growth is the continued success of two popular special features introduced at recent shows. The 2007 Mailing and Fulfillment Pavilion has attracted 38 exhibitors so far, who have booked more than 25,600 square feet of exhibit space, already surpassing the 25,000 sq. ft. sold by this time last year. In the Wide Format Pavilion, close to 14,000 square feet of display area has already been reserved by more than two dozen exhibitors, with other wide-format equipment and supply manufacturers taking large spaces elsewhere on the show floor.

Space reservations and inquiries continue to come into GASC offices, and the show company says it expects the event to near a sellout over the coming months. GASC’s redesigned show Web site for 2007 will open in mid-March for registration. Complete information is available at www.graphexpo.com