The American Veterinary Medical Association’s 2011 annual convention ranked as the 32nd fastest-growing trade show in the United States, according to Trade Show Executive magazine. The magazine factored three traits into its list of the top-50 fastest-growing trade shows: increased square footage of paid exhibits, increased number of exhibitors and increased attendance. Exhibit space at the 2011 AVMA conference in St. Louis, Mo., grew by 15.2 percent, from 40,200 square feet at the 2010 show in Atlanta to 46,300 in 2011. Total exhibitors grew by 7.6 percent, from 263 to 283, and total attendance increased by 3.5 percent, from 8,505 to 8,800. “We’re really pleased that, even in this tough economy, our emphasis on continually improving our programs, services and sales has resulted in a notable increase in our convention size and consequently in this recognition,” said Kelly Fox, director of the AVMA Convention and Meeting Planning Division. “We want to work to ensure that we continue to increase attendance and improve continuing education programs as well as grow the number of exhibitors so that our members will be best served by our annual convention.” The AVMA unveiled several first-time programs and services at the 2011 convention, including MapIt!, a mobile application that allowed iPad and smartphone users to organize their convention plans and schedule meetings. The association also launched a pair of educational programs called “Hot Topics” and “Inside the Issues.” The 2012 convention was held Aug. 3-7 in San Diego. The next convention, marking the AVMA’s 150th anniversary, will take place July 20-23, 2013, in Chicago. <HOME>
