NAME CHANGE FOR MAJOR TRADE SHOW

The Outdoor Power Equipment Institute (OPEI) have announced that GIE+EXPO will rebrand and relaunch in 2022 as Equip Exposition, evolving the tradeshow that took place last week (Oct 20-22) in Louisville, Kentucky.

The organisers said the move will start a new chapter for the event while reinvesting in its host city. 

“We’re excited to announce this evolution of our industry-leading tradeshow,” said Kris Kiser, President of OPEI. “The opening of our new office shows the investment our industry has in the event and in its long-standing location of Louisville. With OPEI bringing the management of the show wholly under the association’s umbrella, it was time to re-envision the event while honoring its long history.”

Concurrent with the launch of Equip Exposition, the OPEI Board of Directors and Kris, joined by Louisville Mayor Greg Fischer and other invited guests, cut the ribbon on new show offices on Main Street in Louisville on Tuesday night this week (October 19th).

The OPEI say plans are already underway to expand education opportunities and enhance the attendee and exhibitor experience in Louisville:

• David Feherty, former professional golfer and current golf broadcaster, will give the opening keynote
• Landscape Management magazine, Bob Clements International, and the Professional Grounds Management Society will host a series of educational workshops
• The TurfMutt Foundation will launch the first-ever Mulligan’s 5K and Fun Run in downtown Louisville

“Equip Exposition is where the landscape changes, and is the place for landscape contractors, outdoor power equipment dealers, distributors, and manufacturers to connect, learn, and grow,” Kris said. “The tradeshow remains the best place to connect with your peers, network, and gain a competitive business edge. We’re excited to evolve the show, and can’t wait to see you in Louisville October 19-21 next year.” 

In 2019, the trade show was the 6th largest in the United States according to the Gold 100. It attracts more than 20,000 attendees hailing from all 50 U.S. states and 54 countries. The show has an economic impact on Louisville of more than $20 million, has 20-plus acres of newly renovated outdoor demonstration areas, and more than a thousand exhibits. It co-locates with Hardscape North America.