Apr 20, 2009

PMA 2009 Attendance was UP!

Wow! Check out this news about PMA 2009 from PMA Newsline:

The PMA 09 International Convention and Trade Show recently held in Las Vegas, Nev., drew more than 40 percent increase in attendance from both the pro photographer and specialty retail photo store segments compared to PMA 08. Attendance from both the mass merchandising store and internet/online retailer categories also increased by approximately 20 percent.

That's interesting given that many trade shows, including CHA, are reporting a decline in attendance. That says something about the photo industry - they get it. They get that when the chips are down, you don't run and hide, you come together to network and figure it out.

We (the scrapbook industry) could learn from that. So many people say, "I don't need a group" (like ScrapBiz and PSRO), but honestly, you DO! This is a time to come together with like-minded people and talk about the issues the scrapbook industry is facing. You almost can't afford to NOT be part of these think-tanks and networking groups.

My hat is off to PMA for a wonderful show. The educational programs at PMA are fantastic - the best I've ever attended. It's worth going to PMA for those alone. Just insert "scrapbook retailer" whenever someone says, "Photography studio" and you'll be well-fed.


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