TSNN Signs Advanstar as First City Guide Partner

TSNN is expanding into a new line of business – supplying online city guides to help attendees and exhibitors find their way around tradeshow destinations.

The New York-based TSNN, which provides lists of companies in various tradeshow sectors, has signed its first partner: Advanstar Communications, the producer of 70 tradeshows each year. Guides have already been set up on the Web sites for MAGIC Marketplace, the Luxury Travel Expo and the Adult Entertainment Expo, all held in Las Vegas.

Online guides are being created for New York, Chicago and other popular tradeshow destinations. Users will have access to information on dining, sports, tours, spas and other attractions.

"Once we build one guide, it will satisfy the needs of attendees and exhibitors at any tradeshow," said David Larkin, TSNN chairman.

Boston-based directory producer Directory M is providing the technology, while TSNN is contributing its expertise in the tradeshow field. TSNN will pay managers 50 cents each time a visitor to a show's Web site clicks on the city guide link. In turn, TSNN will charge restaurants and other businesses to be featured in the guide. Businesses that don't pay to be featured will also be included from time to time, although their placement won't be guaranteed, Larkin said.

TSNN isn't the only company providing destination information for tradeshow-goers. The Map Network, based in Washington, D.C., since fall 2000 has been offering online maps accompanied by destination information. The company produces customized interactive maps for convention and visitors bureaus, tradeshows and special events.

Customers are charged a fee for the Map Network to develop the map, provide ongoing maintenance and issue a license. The company counts 15 CVBs and dozens of tradeshows among its customers.