Car Wash Show Reverses Decision, Heads to Chicago in 2014
April 1, 2012
Just last year, the International Carwash Association was on tap to bring its show to Chicago’s McCormick Place from its home in Las Vegas in 2013.
But, when a federal court ruling invalidated labor changes at the venue enacted by the state legislature, the association decided to opt out of bringing the show to Chicago.
One year later though, after the labor reforms were approved, The Car Wash Show now is booked in the Windy City for March 31-April 2, 2014.
“I am pleased that The Car Wash Show is coming to Chicago, and that it’s more than 6,000 attendees will have a chance to experience all the great things our City has to offer,” said Chicago Mayor Emanuel.
He added, “Attracting shows like this is a central focus of our comprehensive business and tourism strategy; they create jobs for our residents and foster economic opportunity throughout the city. We will continue to seek more exciting shows that will bring thousands of visitors to Chicago.”
The Car Wash Show, managed by SmithBucklin, is the world's largest car wash convention and trade show and is ranked on the TSNN Top 250 trade show list.
The show draws approximately 6,000 attendees from more than 30 countries to 125,000 square feet of exhibits. The educational component of the show also includes 20 hours of business seminars.
"We're thrilled to be able to bring The Car Wash Show to Chicago in 2014," said International Carwash Association CEO Eric Wulf.
He added, "Chicago is a world-class convention city that will be easily accessible for our attendees and exhibitors. We're also particularly encouraged by the new convention business environment in Chicago and are excited to be able to offer a very competitive offering for our exhibitors."
The Car Wash Show is one of several events that have decided to return to Chicago as a direct result of the labor reforms at McCormick Place.
After citing high labor costs and decamping from Chicago in 2012, the Healthcare Information Management Systems Society decided to bring its annual event back to the city in 2015 and 2019.
The city is working hard to attract new and returning business.
“The Car Wash Show represents the ideal sized group to complement Chicago’s mid-sized and citywide business," said Don Welsh, president and CEO of the Chicago Convention & Tourism Bureau.
He added, “We look forward to welcoming all attendees to what is now the most customer-friendly convention and tradeshow destination in the country as a result of labor reform.”
Also because of the labor resolution, which has led to $2.3 billion in economic impact from future meetings and convention business bookings, a group of hoteliers announced more than $500 million in critical upgrades that will take place.
Partner Voices
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The impact of MGM Resorts' supplier diversity initiatives is significant. In 2023, these efforts supported over 3,500 jobs across more than 30 states, contributed over $214 million in income for diverse-owned businesses and generated more than $62 million in tax revenue. The story extends beyond the numbers – it reflects the tangible benefits brought to small and diverse-owned businesses, fostering economic empowerment in their communities.
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MGM Resorts’ commitment to supplier diversity not only enhances its business operations but also plays a crucial role in uplifting communities and fostering economic development. This approach reinforces the idea that diversity is a powerful driver of innovation and resilience, benefiting both the company and the wider community.
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