Denver — CEDIA reported that 4,000 fewer attendees were at CEDIA Expo last week compared with the 2007 show.
CEDIA blamed the economy for the lower attendance, but still called the 2008 show “successful despite the economy.”
More than 25,000 attended CEDIA Expo last week, down from the previous year’s 29,000 who attended the prior year’s shows. CEDIA said the number of non-exhibiting professionals in attendance increased along with the number of electronic systems contractors (ESC) taking advantage of CEDIA University training.
“CEDIA leadership was very aware of the implications the economy might have on our members,” said Don Gilpin, COO. “To help offset the impact, CEDIA provided over $500,000 worth of free education at EXPO.”
More than 500 exhibitors, including more than 90 new companies, displayed the latest home technologies and newest products available in the electronic systems integration industry.
At the Manufacturers’ Action Team meeting held at EXPO 2008, CEDIA member manufacturers offered positive feedback on their experience at this year’s show. “We have been exhibiting at CEDIA EXPO since its inception and this year’s show provided the best show day of our CEDIA career,” said Larry Pexton of Triad Speakers FM.”
More than 60 awards were presented to winners of the Electronic Lifestyles awards at a banquet on Saturday, Sept. 6. A complete list of winners and pictures of products is available at www.cedia.org/awards. For more information on CEDIA, visit the association’s Web site at www.cedia.org.
