IMTS Exhibit Space Sales Holding Steady

While the 2010 edition of the International Manufacturing Technology Show (IMTS) is currently 7.9 percent less than the 2008 show in terms of exhibitor space sold, the total is expected to match that of the 2004 and 2006 events, according to show owner and manager AMT—the Association For Manufacturing Technology. “As many other trade shows have experienced a much more dramatic drop in exhibitors and floor space, we feel fortunate to be hosting a show that has shown resilience in the face of difficult economic times,” says Peter Eelman, vice president—exhibitions and communications for AMT.

Despite economic conditions, show management for IMTS says it is committed to maintaining the same high marketing standards to which it has adhered during the past 80 years. To ensure exhibitor success, the 2010 marketing program, which begins this month, will use many new manufacturing sites, social media and traditional media to promote the show. The program centers on inspiration, with stories of companies inspired to succeed and grow that use IMTS as an integral part of their business plans. Meanwhile, IMTS.com features a continually updated floor plan and a variety of new resources, including a Webinar series and marketing tools to support exhibitors.

IMTS, the largest and longest-running manufacturing trade show in the United States, occurs biennially at McCormick Place in Chicago, Illinois. It typically attracts more than 92,000 visitors from more than 106 countries. The 2010 show is scheduled for September 13 through 18.