Shorter Gibtown Show Draws Mostly Favorable Reactions

A random poll of exhibitors found few against the changes for next year's Feb. 9-12 37th annual trade show and extravaganza of the International Independent Showmen's Foundation, Gibsonton, Fla.

But some of those who were opposed were very vociferous, such as Buzz Barton of Buzz Barton International Jewelers, Sarasota, Fla. "I think they're nuts," said Barton who has exhibited at every show.

"They say the IAAPA [International Assn. of Amusement Parks & Attractions] show is only four days and it works, and that's right. But they have their meetings so as not to conflict with the exhibits. In Gibtown, you've got the NICA [National Independent Concessionaires Assn.] trade show, plus the activities at the Tampa club and around the Crowne Plaza Sabal Park Hotel.

"Now there will be less time to get to all those places. Let's face it, most people come for the entire week. I can't believe this got pushed through that fast. Guys like me with $25, $50, and $100 sales will hurt. People who tell me they'll come back Sunday to pick something up will find I'm not there.

"Attendance has been going down, and this will make it even less. I've even heard rumors the manufacturers are trying to get OABA to do a three-day show before Gibtown. I don't like the change, but two days, four days, six, or whatever, you can bet I'll still be there."

Bill Alter of National Ticket Co., Shamokin, Pa., who attends trade shows worldwide, said the trend is to shorter shows. "Most have gone to two days and three nights, or three days and four nights.

"This works for manufacturers and suppliers because of the expenses of man hours and people. This may hurt their bar revenue, but they can make it up with less expenses. And some people will stay the whole week. Each show has its different vested interests."

David Smith of Allied Specialty Insurance, Treasure Island, Fla., one of the biggest indoor exhibitors with permanent office space, said, "I think it's great. It's more than I expected. I thought they'd cut out one day. We don't do much business on Tuesday, and almost none on Sunday."

Mitch Zinder of Victor Products, Richmond, Va., said, "I like it. IAAPA does it in four days. This will probably result in visitors staying at the show for six hours instead of three."

Billy Rodgers of Pirates Treasure Cove, Gibsonton, said he had thought about not going back if it had not been cut to four days. "They should work on increasing attendance. It isn't like it was five or six years ago.

"Some of those ride manufacturers can have a big week by selling one ride. I have to sell a whole lot of stuff. I hope it will bring attendance back, but this