Above-ground cemeteries. Centuries-old architecture. Bourbon Street. What’s not to love about one of America’s oldest cities?
After a three-year absence from New Orleans, the International Pool | Spa | Patio Expo is heading back to the Big Easy, offering opportunities to learn, network and perhaps catch some live music or tour the city’s infamous “haunts.” (We’re looking at you, vampire, voodoo and ghost tours!) The Expo takes place Nov. 5-7; educational sessions run Nov. 2-7.
“We are excited to return to the freshly renovated Ernest N. Morial Convention Center,” says Tracy Garcia, CEM, show director at Informa Exhibitions U.S. in Irving, Texas. “New Orleans is rich in culture and history. In addition to seeing what is new in the pool, spa and outdoor living industry, those in attendance can enjoy wonderful cuisine at renowned restaurants, visit world-famous attractions, such as the French Quarter, and experience some of the city’s unique traditions.”
With 400 exhibitors confirmed and more than 40 education sessions covering topics from every segment of the industry, this year’s PSP Expo is expected to bring more than 8,000 attendees to NOLA from around the world.
In 2018, show owner Informa reinvigorated the annual exhibition with a host of new educational offerings and programs. The 2019 Expo builds on last year’s additions and introduces new programs to keep the show relevant and fun.
New this year
First-Time Attendee Reception. Discover how to make the most out of the show’s networking events, education, exhibits and resources on Monday, Nov. 4, 4-5 p.m. Attendees will hear from others in the industry—Pool & Hot Tub Alliance (PHTA; formerly the Association of Pool and Spa Professionals, APSP, and National Swimming Pool Foundation, NSPF), manufacturers and PSP Expo show organizers — to learn what to expect when the doors open. For first-time attendees only; registration is free and recommended but not required.
U.S. Residential Pool Markets Report. Get the latest outlook for the pool industry, presented by Hanley Wood through its Metrostudy data business. Attendees will be able to download a free local market report ($500 retail value) with information on how their local markets are expected to perform and which zip codes and consumer groups have the most potential. This market insight session takes place Tuesday, Nov. 5, 1:30-2:30 p.m. Registration fee is $35.
More Show Floor Education. Many free show-floor education sessions debuted in 2018, and this year more have been added. Seating is limited and registration is highly recommended.
• Commercial Education (Booth 451)—seminars for commercial operators and residential professionals looking to expand into the commercial pool and spa market.
• Pool & Spa School (Booth 953)—seminar series on products and technologies that help drive business.
• PHTA University—live builder demonstrations.
• Spa Retailer Academy (Booth 1111)—hot topics such as consumer financing, mobile retail, marketing and water care.
• Genesis Lifestyle Program (Booth 2339)—five panel discussions hosted by Ask the Masters, a Facebook group moderated by SWD Masters. Pose questions to SWD Masters and other industry leaders face to face.
PSN Top 50 Service Awards. Pool and Spa News will present the 2019 winners of its Top 50 Service awards.
PSP Connect. The interactive matchmaking technology is available free to attendees and exhibitors, enabling them to request meetings with one another through an online portal ahead of the show. Users create profiles and search for contacts based on industry segment and business need(s). Appointments are automatically scheduled as they are confirmed. A team of matchmaking professionals support the service, assisting with meeting arrangements and managing the new PSP Connect Lounge (Booth 116).
Returning favorites
Power Panels. They’re back! Long-time convention-goers may remember these interactive sessions during which accomplished industry professionals share their insights on trending topics and tackle the industry’s toughest issues. Power Panels are returning to the 2019 Expo, to take place opening morning before the show floor opens. (Tuesday, Nov. 5, 10:15-11 a.m.) Register for one of three free panel discussions, each focused on a main industry segment: Builder, Retail, Service.
Million Dollar Pool Design Challenge. The competition made its debut last year, challenging designers of all experience levels to come up with the ultimate outdoor oasis, based on a real site, with a $1 million budget. This year’s challenge revolves around a fictional couple with conflicting priorities. Five finalists, including one student, will present their renderings live to their peers Wednesday, Nov. 6, 9:15 a.m. Voting will take place during the session, with the winner receiving $5,000.
Product Showcase. Go to Booth 2301 for an up-close look at featured products from some of the industry’s top suppliers. Plus, the New Product Spotlight showcases new products, services and technologies launched in 2019. Vote for your favorites at the show!
See you in New Orleans!
