Senior Vice President, B2R Sector
DMG World Media
Atlanta
Describe your event.
Surf Expo is held twice a year in Orlando (September and January). We have been in Orlando since 1985. The purpose of the trade show is to bring exhibitors of beach and boardsports (surfing, wakeboarding, skateboarding, etc.) products and apparel together with buyers and owners of surf shops, beach shops, resort stores and other specialty retail stores.
Why did you decide to host the meeting in Orlando?
Orlando happens to be in the center of our largest retail market (beach shops, resort stores and surf shops). It’s also easy to get to by air from most major airports and less expensive than most large trade show cities.
What surprised you the most about Orlando?
That there is life outside of Disney! Orlando has great restaurants as well as some of the best public golf courses in the world.
What did your attendees seem to enjoy most?
It’s inexpensive to stay near the convention center, and there is always a lot of great things to do outside of the show.
Was anybody particularly helpful?
We always receive the best customer service from the Orange County Convention Center and the Orlando/Orange County CVB.
What other types of groups would fit well with the property?
Any group would fit well at the center. They can easily accommodate all groups large or small. The hotels (Peabody, Rosen Centre) seem to handle in-house meetings very well, too.
What were some of the unique off-site venues that you used?
We rented the Marvel Comics Island, one of the five islands at Universal Islands of Adventure. Our attendees enjoyed a night of experiencing rides like the Incredible Hulk roller coaster, Dr. Doom’s Fearfall and Spiderman, as well as dancing to a band we set up in the street. On several occasions, we rented out Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park, which is always a favorite with our attendees.
Did you incorporate any interesting activities into the agenda?
All of our activities are on the show floor. We regularly feature a skate ramp, two fashion shows, seminars and a beer garden.
How does Orlando compare to other cities where you’ve hosted meetings?
Orlando beats most cities on service, location, airport and price.
Would you return?
Absolutely. Orlando really is a great place to host a meeting, convention or trade show.