Registration is now open for the 2021 GIE+EXPO set for October 20-22 at the Kentucky Exposition Center as the industry is eager to return to in-person connections.
“Despite the pandemic, business never stopped for those who design, install, and maintain living landscapes. While this year’s show will look different, we can’t wait to welcome everyone back to Louisville,” said Kris Kiser, managing partner of GIE+EXPO and OPEI President. “We understand how important GIE+EXPO is to our industry, and we are committed to providing the education, resources and networking businesses need to thrive.”
As of April 20, 675 companies had already signed on to exhibit at GIE+EXPO and the co-located Hardscape North America – an 18% increase over the same time in 2019. More than 70 are new exhibitors.
With the expo center’s recent renovations to the demo area, exhibitors are looking forward to showcasing their latest innovations outdoors where attendees can test drive equipment.
“We look forward to attending the GIE+EXPO every year and are eager to get back to the show in 2021,” said Chris Durig, VP Sales, BlueBird Turf Products. “It is the only industry show that provides an audience of distributors, dealers and landscapers at a single event. Additionally, it is the only industry show that provides opportunities for an indoor exhibit as well as outdoor product demonstrations.”
Warren Sellers, show manager, said attendees are also clamoring to get back together in person. According to a recent survey of past attendees, 91% of landscape professionals and 84% of dealers are likely to attend this year.
“GIE+EXPO has always been a good way to check up on the competition, to see what’s new and talk to the manufacturers of the products we sell,” said Sam Walter, President of Sam Walter & Son, Inc. in Fairbury, IL. “We can’t wait to get back to the show in 2021.”
With expanded education on real-world topics such as drones, robotics and connectivity, as well as features that put attendees behind the controls, this year’s show will offer a wide range of opportunities, including:
- Hands-on Drone Zone where attendees can fly drones with expert trainers
- Technology Summit presented by the National Association of Landscape Professionals
- UTV Test Track
- Remote Pilot Certification Course presented by the Indiana State University Aviation and Unmanned Systems Program
- Expanded In-Tree Arborist Demos and Classroom Courses, including CEU opportunities
- Opening keynote, “Leadership and a New World Order: The Need for Resilience,” featuring Retired U.S. Navy 4-star Admiral James Stavridis
- Free dealer workshops by Bob Clements International, including a discussion on Bulletproofing Your Business
For information and registration: www.gie-expo.com. Other contact points: @gieexpo on Facebook, @GIE_EXPO on Instagram and Twitter, [email protected] and 800-558-8767/812-949-9200.
