Parking, parking and parking For consumer shows in particular, parking space is critical. In this area, suburban facilities unquestionably have the edge. But at the Eastern States Exposition in Springfield, MA, Pedersen's attendees have access to 9,000 parking spaces. The public tells us how much they like it. And our surveys show that we're getting a greater percentage of city residents driving to the suburbs than we had expected.
Many consumers view downtown as a hassle.
Chris Buser is co-owner of American Made Promotions, which holds six arts and crafts events annually at the Kansas City Merchandise Mart. Buser admits that she is using all available space at the Mart, and could use even twice as much exhibit space. One of the biggest advantages at the Merchandise Mart is the free parking. She explains that since her attendees would be put off by the difficulty and cost of parking at a downtown facility, she simply hasn't investigated any further. A factor that draws managers of both public shows and trade shows to suburban facilities is the labor situation.