IGC 2008 Smashes Records In 2nd Successful Year!

Chicago, IL - The Independent Garden Center Show in its 2nd year is being called a huge success by retailers and vendors alike. Show organizers report garden center buyers from all 50 states and 11 countries, representing more than 2,000 stores, were in attendance at IGC 2008. Total registration was 6,573 - up 33 percent from last year. Buyer attendance was 3,267 - up 32 percent from last year. “First, the demand for exhibitor space - putting the expo at 160 percent the size of last year’s show - humbled us. Now this,” says Jeff Morey, Publisher of Nursery Retailer magazine and a producer of the show. “And it’s only up from here. We’re going to do it even bigger and better next year.” Long lines formed at exhibitor booths, where vendors found themselves running out of order forms. At many of the educational sessions, it was standing room only. Leading off the show on Monday, The IGC Bus Tour by GCA loaded four buses of attendees for the sold-out tour, which visited four trend-setting garden centers in and around Chicago and made a stop for lunch at Henri Studio’s new design center. Overall, the show is being called a major success. Cheryl Morey, Publisher of Garden Chic magazine and also a producer of the show, says, “We stepped out in faith, looking to the opportunities of growth that would come from the industry rallying together. Our prayers have been answered, tenfold.” Next year’s Independent Garden Center Show returns to Chicago’s Navy Pier August 18-20, 2009.

"I didn't think you could top last year, but more cool products, great education and just about everyone I know showed up! Wow ... can't wait for next year! Great job! Thanks for being the show for independents.”  Dave Williams, Williams Nursery, Westfield, NJ

"The IGC Show was time very well spent." Bob Friedl, Senior Buyer, Hicks Nurseries, Long Island

"The 2008 IGC Show was a tremendous success!!!  Congrats to Jeff and crew!!" Gino Pitera, Gertens, Inver Grove Heights, MN

“Congratulations on a tremendous educational conference and trade show. I just read attendance was up 30 percent. Based on the current trend in trade shows and event attendance, The IGC Show has broken the mold. I know you are very pleased with the response to the show from the IGC community. The overall attitude and ‘buzz’ at the show was very positive, and most of our garden center owners are looking forward to profitable business in 2008-09. Anyone who was not at the Gen X/Y IGC Show Research presentation on Thursday morning has no idea what they missed. The presentations were outstanding and packed with great information. Another home run in 2008 - super job! I sincerely appreciate the opportunity for Garden Centers of America to be a part of the show. Thanks again, and enjoy the standard you have set for other shows to strive for.” Charles Hall, Executive Vice President, Garden Centers of America

“I certainly echo Charles' accurate words. A truly fabulous event, now two years in a row! Great job!” Ken Long, President, L.A. Reynolds Garden Showcase, Winston-Salem, NC.