Why did Advanstar and the International Licensing Industry Merchandisers’ Association (LIMA) decide to relocate the show?
The role of Licensing International Expo is to provide a platform for industry growth, and the best place to do this is in a location that offers top quality, cost-effective amenities and service. Escalating prices of hotel rooms in New York and booth setup fees at the Javits became an obstacle to new participants and an impediment for established ones — potentially depriving Licensing International Expo’s marketplace of thousands of exhibitors, attendees, brands and properties. Advanstar and LIMA were compelled to search for an alternative that would increase return on investment for all parties. Both on and off the show floor, Las Vegas offers world-class amenities for a fraction of the cost of New York City; and with Mandalay Bay’s five-star offerings, we found the perfect environment for our $187 billion licensing industry.