Shows Move from Miami Beach CC After Building Construction Disrupted by Hurricane Irma

September 25, 2017
ICCF Miami

Set to open in just more than two weeks, Reed Exhibitions’ JIS (Jewelers International Show) October 2017 show will relocate to Fort Lauderdale, after receiving news from the Miami Beach Convention Center that it would be unavailable to host the event because of  Hurricane Irma disrupting construction activity and the building not being cleared for public occupancy.

The show now will take place during the same dates Oct. 8-11 at the Greater Fort Lauderdale/Broward County Convention Center, just 30 miles north of Miami.

“Knowing the important role that JIS October plays in delivering product in time for the Holiday’s, we spoke to customers whose unanimous feedback was to find a new location and move forward with this year’s event,” said Jordan Tuchband, industry vice president of JIS.

Tuchband added, “We were thankful that the Fort Lauderdale Convention Center had space available during our same dates and that this location would have minimal impact for customers who have already booked flights to Miami, just a short drive away.”

To support the move, JIS will invest more than $250,000 in new programs dedicated to easing travel concerns and delivering a successful event for all attendees, exhibitors and the markets that rely on the show.

The investment will include a buyer merchandise credit program, special retailer hotel hosting opportunities and travel assistance from Miami.

 Each day, there will be more than $50,000 worth of merchandise credits available for attendees to earn and spend with JIS October exhibitors.

JIS isn’t the only show moving to Fort Lauderdale, Emerald Expositions’ ICCF Miami Show, on tap ct. 3-14, also moved its event up the road out of the Miami Beach CC, citing the same reasons as the jewelry show.

“Fortunately, ICFF management and South Florida city officials identified alternative space available during the same dates," said ICCF show management. 

The Spectra-managed Miami Beach CC is in the middle of a more than $500 million renovation project (projected to be completed in 2018) that includes  a state-of-the-art 60,000 square foot grand ballroom, additional meeting rooms with flexible arrangements, advanced technology and versatile indoor/outdoor areas.

The 5.8 acre parking lot directly across from Hall C on Convention Center Drive will be converted into a public park, complete with canopy trees, a flexible lawn area, a food pavilion, and a veteran’s memorial.

The 800 parking spots that the park will be replacing will be relocated within the footprint of the building.

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