March 2007
5-minute interview: Mary Beth Rebedeau

Executive Director of the Society of Independent Show Organizers (SISO) and President of The Rebedeau Group

Founded in 1948, The Rebedeau Group is an independent show management company that currently produces seven events annually and provides association management for SISO. Rebedeau talks with EXPO about trends in the industry, upcoming SISO initiatives and managing her own events.

EXPO: What new technologies do you think are making the biggest impact on our industry?
Rebedeau: The Web is continually changing and is a powerful force in our industry. Depending on how it’s used, it’s enhancing and transforming our industry. Many Web-based applications are helping us to serve attendees, exhibitors and sponsors better. For example, scheduling/matchmaking software helps put people in touch both prior to and during events. Wireless technologies are going to continue to make an impact on our industry. As that technology continues to develop, we’ll see more and more applications allowing attendees to use their mobile phones to retrieve information on the show floor, at registration, downloading the show guide, matchmaking — and who knows where else? That’s one of the great things about a dynamic industry and constantly changing technology.

EXPO: You’ve launched a series of new shows recently, including the Naturally Healthy Children’s Expos. Where did the idea for this show come from and what sort of preliminary work did you do to understand this market before launching these events?
Rebedeau: We co-produced a similar event in Los Angeles last April. We wanted to bring the message, in which we believe strongly, to other markets. So we’re launching the Naturally Healthy Children’s Expo (www.mynhc.info), Oct. 5-7, 2007 at Navy Pier in Chicago. The project has been fun and a great experience that helps me in my work with SISO. Launching shows helps keep me aware of the needs of SISO members from the ground up.

EXPO: What’s in store for SISO in 2007?
Rebedeau: The SISO Board just finished a long-range strategic plan, which focuses on member benefits. For example, adding resources to the SISO Web site, such as a document library where members can find resources like sample hotel contracts, planning checklists and other best practices information. The Web site will also soon offer an online vendor services directory. We’re also planning to start polls every other week in our e-newsletter to keep our finger on the pulse of our membership.

EXPO: What are some of the biggest challenges unique to for-profit organizers in today’s market?
Rebedeau: I think it’s a great time for independent show organizers who work hard to find attendees, to build cross promotional opportunities, and to capitalize on innovation and creativity. While each industry our members serve is unique, independent show organizers are generally unfettered by rules and regulations that sometimes accompany association events. This allows independents to be nimble, quick and take advantage of market needs.