In focus groups that ISA held, both users and vendors urged show management to make their event more like Interkama. Slater faced that same dilemma. So, two years ago, CIMA changed its rules and now allows alcoholic beverages, although they can't be out where all visitors can access them. You can never call your show international until you allow what's done everywhere else but here. ITC's Lacava, meanwhile, does try to show Italian companies that the U.S. style also presents opportunities.
Buyers shop around more.
As soon as you offer them something better, they'll drop their old supplier. Smart U.S. show managers are doing everything they can to bring it even closer. The best information is worthless if it arrives too late. Exhibitors know the information they need is on its way, and they also know when to fax back if the mailing doesn't arrive. We have to be sensitive to how long it takes to get information to people overseas.