PORTLAND, Ore. — Founded in 1988 for the advancement of the consumer trade show industry and to foster the growth and professionalism of those involved in the production of consumer trade shows, the National Association of Consumer Fairs (NACS) will soon no longer exist. NACS members produce and organize exhibitions each year that occupy millions of square feet of public and private exhibition space in the United States and Canada.
“The changing landscape of consumer shows, exacerbated by the ongoing challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, has placed unprecedented pressure on the viability of our organization. The financial sustainability of the National Association of Consumer Shows (NACS) has become increasingly challenging, and despite our best efforts to adapt and persevere, we have realized that we can no longer continue in our current capacities,” reads a letter to NACS members and stakeholders.
Some industry experts have predicted a change in association, and this could be the beginning of things to come. Younger participants are often skeptical about joining formal associations and this has had an impact on NACS. The second quarter of 2023 Freeman Trends Report The survey looks at the trustworthiness of information sources. When asked of participants of all ages, professional organizations ranked as the second most trusted source, with 68% saying they were extremely or very trustworthy sources of information. When asked of today’s next-generation event attendees, ages 20 to 44, that number drops to 44%.
It’s a family
“I have been a member for 20 years and have attended every conference except one, when my son was born. NACS is not just a group of people who get together once a year; it is a family,” said Jacqui McGuinness, NACS President and Founder. JBM & Associates, which produces the annual Charleston Boat Show and the annual Savannah Boat Showsaid. “This organization has been very beneficial to many of our businesses. It has been a great success.”
The focus is now on a smooth dissolution process. NACS is also in discussions with potential partners to explore other options the association may have to provide services and benefits to its members.
Related. Trade show organizers and event industry associations consider acquisitions and consolidations
“This decision has not been taken lightly and we recognize the significant impact it will have on our members, partners and the consumer show industry as a whole. For many years, NACS has played a unifying role in bringing together a broad range of consumer show professionals. We strive to foster collaboration, innovation and excellence in the consumer show industry and are extremely proud of the accomplishments and progress we have made together,” the letter reads.
The association currently has 139 members, down from 300 at its peak. The association’s last convention was held in June in Des Moines, Iowa, at the Community Choice Convention Center.
“While the decision to dissolve NACS is undoubtedly a somber one, we hope that the spirit of collaboration and dedication that has defined our organization will live on in the consumer trade show industry. We are extremely grateful to our members, partners and the entire community for their support, commitment and passion over the years. It is your unwavering dedication that has made NACS a vital part of this industry,” the letter states. “In closing, I would like to express our deepest gratitude to everyone who has been a part of NACS throughout its history. Together, we have achieved remarkable milestones and forged lasting bonds.”
McGuinness believes the dissolution of NACS is a sign of the times. “The pandemic has had an impact. We’re seeing a lot of domino effects now,” McGuinness said.
Contact Jacqui McGuinness at jacqui@jbmshows.com