Exhibitors request CES attendance be pegged at 2009 levels

Over 2,700 companies from around the world, including 300 new exhibitors, unveiled an estimated 20,000 new technology products at the 2009 International Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas, during the second week of January. Despite the expected fewer number of trade visitors this year, there were plenty of upbeat comments coming from the show as it closed its doors on Sunday 11th. Indeed, the slightly reduced attendance and the quality of those who did attend was seen as a positive by those looking to meet serious buyers. In past years there has been a steady increase in the number of shop floor staff and family members attending what is supposed to be an event carefully restricted to national and overseas trade and press.

CEA - the show's organising association - had already taken steps to better manage the show's attendance by introducing a new $100 pre-registration fee on November 1. At its meeting on the third day of CES, the 45 members of the CEA Board, which includes executives from large and small manufacturers and retailers, reported to CEA staff that the 2009 event had been a huge success and that CEA should work towards restricting future attendance to 2009 levels.

"Our board concluded that it is essential to have the right people attend CES", said Gary Shapiro, president of the CEA. "Board members reported getting more business done this year than at any prior show. One board member reported his company scheduled 450 customer meetings prior to CES and every one of those 450 meetings took place at the show. Quality trumps quantity when it comes to exhibitors and attendees conducting business at CES," said Shapiro.

Confirming this feeling, Sharp USA Vice President Judah Zeigler added that, "The 2009 CES was very successful for Sharp, because the show’s attendees, while fewer in total number, were the people that we really wanted to talk to. When you have fewer people to the show, but they’re the right people who want and are capable of doing real business, everybody wins, and the 2009 CES delivered."

CEA conducts an independent audit of CES attendance in order to ensure the accuracy of data regarding the show. Preliminary estimates suggest attendance at the 2009 International CES will be more than 110,000, with the final verified number to be released in about 90 days. At the close of the 2008 CES, CEA estimated 130,000 attendees, and the final verified audited attendance was 141,150. [MMSA.ORG.UK]