Chicago gained two spots on the Tradeshow Week “2007 Leading Cities” ranking over the last year. Cities are ranked based on the number of meetings or conventions booked with more than 5,000 net square feet in size. Chicago ranks #2 with 150 shows booked for 2007.
2007 Chicago ranks 2nd with 150 shows booked
2006 Chicago ranked 4th with 132 shows
2005 Chicago ranked 4th with 116 shows
In 2006 Chicago was ranked fourth with 132 shows and in 2005 Chicago was also ranked fourth, but with 116 shows.
The data used to compile this list measures overall health of the city as a meetings and convention destination, rather than simply the sheer number of shows hosted as does the magazine's annual Tradeshow 200 list. “For those of us marketing Chicago as a visitor destination, we know we have a fantastic product, but it's always nice to scale the ladder,” said Tim Roby,President and CEO of the CCTB.
“Our customers also know what a great destination Chicago is - nearly every major tradeshow hosted in Chicago since May 2005 experienced record-breaking attendance and/or exhibit sales.”
According to Adam Schaffer, Tradeshow Week publisher, “The 2007 list of top cities underscores that Chicago remains a top player in the global tradeshow market. There are a number of factors we use to evaluate a city and the sheer number of shows is ultimately the most important one. Chicago has not only risen in the rankings, but continually adds shows. Show organizers know they need to be in cities that have an important drive-in base, but that also is easy to fly to and is a quality destination. Chicago has all of that."