Latin America's AFIDA, U.S.-based SISO Form Collaborative Partnership
July 29, 2013
Looking to tap into each other’s resources, the Society of Independent Show Organizers (SISO) and AFIDA, the International Association of Exhibition Industry in Latin America announced a new alliance at the recent 44th Congress of AFIDA held in Bolivia.
SISO has 160 members worldwide with most based in the U.S., while AFIDA has 72 supplier and exhibition organizer members in Latin America. Because most of those members do not overlap, offering memberships to each organization broadens each other’s reach.
“This agreement will offer our members an unprecedented opportunity to grow their respective brands in and around Latin America, as they see the opportunity of moving their brands into emerging markets and with the knowledge and assistance of our international partners that will make their expansions efficient and cost effective,” said David Audrain, chairman of SISO.
He added, “At the same time. SISO will act as the eyes and ears of the U.S. market as AFIDA organizer members seek opportunities outside of their primary markets. It’s a win-win for both of our associations’ members.”
Working together will allow SISO and AFIDA association members to expand outside of their geographic areas for more opportunities.
Each organization also will share their ideas, research and data, which will further assist members.
“This agreement will encourage a new synergy as both associations, recognizing the unique benefits of the International exhibition industry for enhancing world trade, cooperate in promoting the industry, maximizing networking opportunities and heightening the general public’s awareness of the value of the exhibition industry,” said Andrés López Valderrama, AFIDA’s president.
Partner Voices
Overview:
The award-winning Orange County Convention Center (OCCC) goes the extra mile to make every day extraordinary by offering customer service excellence and industry-leading partnerships. From their dedicated in-house Rigging team to their robust Exhibitor Services, The Center of Hospitality brings your imagination to life by helping you host unforgettable meetings and events. With more than 2 million square feet of exhibit space, world-class services and a dream destination, we are committed to making even the most ambitious conventions a reality.
In October 2023, the Orange County Board of County Commissioners voted to approve allocating Tourist Development Tax funding for the $560 million Phase 5A completion of the OCCC. The Convention Way Grand Concourse project will include enhancements to the North-South Building, featuring an additional 60,000 square feet of meeting space, an 80,000- square-foot ballroom and new entry to the North-South Building along Convention Way.
“We are thrilled to begin work on completing our North-South Building which will allow us to meet the growing needs of our clients,” said OCCC Executive Director Mark Tester. “As an economic driver for the community, this project will provide the Center with connectivity and meeting space to host more events and continue to infuse the local economy with new money and expanding business opportunities.”
Amenities:
The Center of Hospitality goes above and beyond by offering world-class customer service and industry-leading partnerships. From the largest convention center Wi-Fi network to custom LAN/WAN design, the Center takes pride in enhancing exhibitor and customer experience.
The OCCC is the exclusive provider of electricity (24-hour power at no additional cost), aerial rigging and lighting, water, natural gas and propane, compressed air, and cable TV services. Convenience
The Center is at the epicenter of the destination, with an abundance of hotels, restaurants, and attractions within walking distance. Pedestrian bridges connect both buildings to more than 5,200 rooms and is within a 15-minute drive from the Orlando International Airport. The convenience of the location goes hand-in-hand with top notch service to help meet an event’s every need.
Gold Key Members
The OCCC’s Gold Key Members represent the best of the best when it comes to exceptional service and exclusive benefits for clients, exhibitors and guests. The Center’s Gold Key memberships with Universal Orlando Resort, SeaWorld Orlando and Walt Disney World greatly enhance meeting planner and attendee experiences offering world-renowned venues, immersive experiences and creative resources for their events.
OCCC Events:
This fiscal year, the OCCC is projected to host 168 events, 1.7 million attendees, and $2.9 billion in economic impact.
The Center’s top five events during their 2022-2023 fiscal year included:
AAU Jr. National Volleyball Championships 2023
200,000 Attendees
$257 Million in Economic Impact
MEGACON 2023
160,000 Attendees
$205 Million in Economic Impact
Open Championship Series 2023
69,500 Attendees
$89 Million in Economic Impact
Sunshine Classic 2023
42,000 Attendees
$54 Million in Economic Impact
Premiere Orlando 2023
42,000 Attendees
$108 Million in Economic Impact
Add new comment