We took time out with Matthew Griffiths, managing director of show-owners the Professional Lighting and Sound Association (PLASA) and Nicola Rowland, acting show director for organizer Clarion Events, to hear about the plans and their implementation. Matthew Griffiths expands on the background to the decision: "The PLASA show is the leading entertainment, communication and presentation technology show in the world. To maintain this position, the Association realises that the show needs to be a pioneer in adapting to industry change. It also needs to ensure that the visitor experience is kept vibrant, fresh and business-focused.
"After ongoing discussions and regular feedback from visitors and key participants, the decision was taken by the Association to radically shake-up the floorplan, allowing us to introduce new feature areas, where we were unable to before. The ideas include moving The New Technology Gallery from upstairs to the very front of the hall, highlighting the show’s position as a key launch pad for new product. We are proposing that an interactive stage area be built where visitors can see products demonstrated in a live environment. And an enhanced educational programme, developed in conjunction with key associations and trade bodies, with even more technical courses for both technicians and end-users, will provide a forum from which visitors can learn.
"PLASA 2003 will also see the launch of PLASA Commercial - a show within a show, dedicated to architectural lighting, commercial audio and display communications technology. This area will mirror the diversification that is happening in the industry and will provide a genuine platform for companies involved in these sectors."
"These floorplan changes will provide an opportunity which has not existed before for current exhibitors to re-appraise their stand size and positioning to reflect economic trends, and the business they do in these markets," adds Nicola Rowland. "The change-around will also enable us to re-design the floorplan in such a way that sector-specific areas will be set aside and visitors will find it easier to work their way around the exhibition hall."
Many of the exhibitors at the 2002 event were consulted about the new plans and regard them as a positive step forward. "We talked to as many exhibitors as we could at PLASA and the feedback was encouraging. However, because of the amount of business being done at the show, it wasn’t possible to see everyone - since the show closed, we have made a point of speaking to all our exhibitors personally. Companies who have been exhibiting at the show for many years, understand the need for change and are being supportive. But, as expected there are concerns, and we will be working very hard to ensure that exhibitors are happy with the new plan layout and their new location. We are operating an open door policy at all times and welcome any comments. We are taking into consideration requirements from all companies, no matter how small or large, and will respond accordingly."
To find out more about the plans for PLASA 2003, both current exhibitors and potential new exhibitors should contact Nicola Rowland on +44 (0)20 7370 8231.
(Ruth Rossington)
