ASD/AMD Trade Shows Will Launch New Event in Houston

ASD/AMD Trade Shows will launch ASD/AMD's Houston Variety Merchandise Show Oct. 3–5, 2004 at the George R. Brown Convention Center. The event, which will focus on buyers and exhibitors in the southwestern United States and Mexico, is from the producers of the ASD/AMD Trade Show-Las Vegas. Product categories include jewelry and apparel, novelties and collectibles, and housewares and souvenirs.

According to Sam Bundy, vice president of show manager VNU Expositions, Houston was chosen because the market was seen as underserved, and the timing of the October dates was right because of regional buying patterns and the proximity to the holiday season. San Antonio was also considered, but Houston has a better drive-in potential, and offers more access to Mexico and other international participants. Houston's weather and the general lack of events in the industry also contributed to the decision to launch the event, Bundy added.

At the moment, the event is expected to span 30,000 net square feet of exhibit space and attract about 4,000 attendees, Bundy said.