LIGHTFAIR International 2017 Boasts Largest Trade Show to Date in Philadelphia

June 29, 2017

LIGHTFAIR International boasted its largest show and Philadelphia registration numbers at its most recent event, held May 7-11 at the Pennsylvania Convention Center.

The world’s largest annual architectural and commercial lighting trade show and conference registered 27,939 attendees from 81 countries spanning 277,600 net square feet of expo space, with registration exceeding its 2016 event and increasing 7.4 percent, compared with its 2013 Philadelphia show.

“LFI 2017 was by every measure a study in superlatives with the trade show and conference eclipsing all predecessors in staging, scope and scale,” said Jeffrey L. Portman, Sr., vice chairman, president and COO of LFI managing partner AmericasMart Atlanta, which produces the show.

He added, “These pivotal outcomes will accelerate LFI’s growth trajectory for 2018 and beyond.”

The event’s 592 exhibiting companies, including 59 first-time exhibitors, presented the lighting and design industry’s latest innovations and newest concepts, with two brand-new pavilions – Intelligent Lighting and IoT – displaying cutting-edge products and solutions showcased in product presentations featuring technology and connectivity innovations.

“Across every dimension of the trade show and conference, transformative innovation was pronounced and prolific,” said Shirley Coyle, president of the Illuminating Engineering Society (IES), which co-sponsors the show with the International Association of Lighting Designers (IALD).

She continued, “LFI 2017 was all about the continuing integration of lighting, technology and connectivity.”

LFI’s expanded trade show floor featured a product mix of 46 categories that included controls, IoT (Internet of Things), decorative, alternative energy including solar power, software, site and roadway, digital signage, healthcare and hospitality.                             

“The worlds of lighting and design converged in Philadelphia to discover all that is new, next and emergent in practice, concept and theory,” IALD President Victor Palacio said.

He added, “LFI delivered all of that, and more, to reveal a clear vision into the future.”

Preceding and setting the stage for the show’s opening, the LFI Innovation Awards highlighted the industry’s most innovative products and designs introduced during the last 12 months, with 255 entries from 135 exhibiting companies spanning 14 categories judged by an independent panel of lighting professionals. 

In addition, the event offered its popular conference component, with 73 education courses taught by 135 industry experts, as well as keynotes, unique networking opportunities and a New Exhibitor Pavilion.

LIGHTFAIR International 2018 is set to take place May6-10 at McCormick Place in Chicago.

Add new comment

Partner Voices
  MGM Resorts is renowned for its exceptional service and diverse venue options across Las Vegas, Detroit, Springfield, National Harbor, Biloxi, and Atlantic City, providing flexible spaces for meetings of any size. Beyond these offerings, MGM Resorts distinguishes itself through a strong commitment to social responsibility and sustainability, making it an ideal choice for your next meeting.  At the core of MGM Resorts' company values is its platform, "Focused on What Matters," dedicated to meeting customer needs while advancing socially responsible practices. This commitment is evident in several key areas:  Protecting Natural Resources  MGM Resorts is home to industry-leading recycling, renewable electricity and water conservation programs. Some highlights include a cogeneration power plant at ARIA, producing ultra-efficient electricity; one of America’s largest contiguous rooftop solar arrays atop the convention center at Mandalay Bay; and onsite wells that provide water for the celebrated Fountains of Bellagio, avoiding reliance on precious Colorado River water. These efforts and many more save on natural resources while boosting attendee satisfaction.  Committed to Community  Always striving to be good neighbors, MGM Resorts works to avoid food waste and combat food insecurity with the Feeding Forward program. In partnership with local food banks, they safely divert unserved food to food insecure members of the community. Since 2016, over 5 million meals have been provided, highlighting MGM Resorts' commitment to minimizing food waste and addressing community needs.  MGM Resorts supports clients in their responsible-meetings efforts, not only with efficient venues but also waste-reducing décor and signage; sustainable food and beverage options; and outreach to help planners communicate sustainability efforts to attendees. What’s more, they offer a Mindful Meetings series that puts attendee wellness first—through fitness and mindfulness activities, and in give-back events with local charity organizations.   Fostering Diversity & Inclusion  To MGM Resorts, a diverse and talented workforce is essential to success. By cultivating innovative strategies that consider multiple perspectives and viewpoints, the company creates an inclusive workplace culture that benefits its employees and community. MGM Resorts takes pride in being a welcoming home for veterans, individuals with disabilities, people from diverse backgrounds, LGBTQ+ community members, and more. This commitment to inclusion is reflected in the company's recruitment and hiring practices and its social responsibility initiatives. From the workplace to the community, MGM Resorts' commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion remains unwavering, and its efforts continue to create a more equitable and sustainable world for all.  MGM Resorts offers unparalleled service and venue options while standing out for its proactive approach to sustainability and community engagement. Choosing MGM Resorts for your next meeting means aligning with a company that values social responsibility, efficiency, and attendee satisfaction, ensuring a meaningful and impactful event experience.