The 2018 GIE+EXPO, held Oct. 17-19 in Louisville, Ky., topped the last four years’ events in both attendance and exhibitors.
More than 24,700 people from around the world attended, representing a 3 percent increase over 2017, and the indoor show floor and outdoor demonstration area boasted 1,000 exhibits, making the 2018 GIE+EXPO the largest ever and one of the largest trade shows in the U.S.
“The 2018 GIE+EXPO was the biggest and best ever,” said Kris Kiser, president of OPEI. “Attendees and exhibitors alike know this is the place you have to be if you’re in this business. The whole industry gathers in Louisville to see new products, network and learn.”
Other show highlights included:
- Lawn and landscape pro registrants increased 7 percent over 2017.
- Servicing dealer registrants were up 5 percent over 2017.
- All 50 states and more than 50 countries were represented.
- The indoor show floor was 40,000 gross square feet larger than in 2017.
- The outdoor demonstration area covered more than 20 acres.
- 250 new exhibitors were present at GIE+EXPO and the co-located Hardscape North America.
- The New Products Spotlight special display sold out, featuring more than 100 products that were introduced within the past year.
- The two keynote sessions featuring Dr. Robert Ballard for dealers and contractors drew more than 1,000 and 2,000 participants, respectively.
- During the Kentucky Humane Society’s Mutt Madness event, sponsored by TurfMutt, more than 10 dogs were adopted.
As a result of the show’s continued growth, this year’s new three-day format will continue in 2019. Show dates are Oct. 16-18. The indoor show floor will open exclusively for dealers, retailers and the media at noon on Wednesday. Then, beginning at 3 p.m. and continuing Thursday and Friday, the entire industry will be invited to visit the exhibits. The outdoor demonstration area will be open Thursday and Friday. Registration will be available early in 2019.
GIE+EXPO is sponsored by the Outdoor Power Equipment Institute, Professional Grounds Management Society and National Association of Landscape Professionals.
