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News Archive >> More space and bigger stands pay off for CEDIA 2006
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CEDIA's general manager Stephen Miller said that the event was working well on the Gold Coast. 
Fujitsu General made a significant investment in its display at CEDIA 2006.
For an event that was held under a marquee at Jupiter's Casino on Queensland's Gold Coast only two years ago, the CEDIA Expo (Custom Electronic Design & Installation Association) has come of age. This year the total floorspace doubled to 5,700sqm, the number of companies on display increased from 180 to 300 and pre-registrations were five times higher than those in 2005.
While the Expo is primarily designed for custom installers to learn about new technologies in categories such as home automation and security products, two CE suppliers Panasonic and Fujitsu General, headlined the floorplan this year with massive stands. CEDIA general manager Stephen Miller said this investment was indicative of suppliers capitalising on convergence trends.
It's great to see the big players here, but products are only a small part of what we provide our customers. It's exciting to see the huge variety of home solutions on offer, he said.
Multiple companies on display
Another trend he noted was the increase of multiple companies displaying on one stand, with one display featuring eight different brands. Miller said that particular trend was a consequence of the limitations CEDIA placed on floorspace and increased interest in the Expo.
Missing this year however was Pioneer Electronics, which decided against setting up a stand at CEDIA 2006 due to a recent restructure of its plasma professional panels division and the export and commercial business group. However, the company still took the opportunity to launch its 1080p panel at CEDIA.
Pioneer general manager corporate affairs Sandra Cowan said, we weren't in a position to commit to a stand at the time, but we've always supported CEDIA and we intend to return next year.
Intention to remain at the Gold Coast
Meanwhile, Miller acknowledged that attendance by custom installers would probably increase if the Expo was held in either Sydney or Melbourne. However, he believed that the Gold Coast location provided more opportunity for companies to network with visitors.
Because exhibitors and visitors are staying at the Gold Coast they are more likely to spend time after the Expo with each other and that's an important part of the event. If it was held in the cities where they live, they would be more likely to return to their homes in the evening, he added.
Miller said that the Expo will continue to be held in Queensland although it was unlikely to grow any larger next year. This is the ideal size, he said.
Date
Tuesday 01 Aug 2006
