Washington -- Destinations Showcase, the semi-annual trade show that brings together meeting planners and convention bureau representatives, has been sold back to its founder, Destination Marketing Association International (DMAI).
The show, which takes place in Washington and Chicago, was founded in 1985 by DMAI, then known as the International Association of Convention and Visitor Bureaus. DMAI sold the show to the event production and marketing company, PGI, in 1996. PGI was acquired by TBA Global Events in July, at which time DMAI proposed buying the show from its new owner.
"When presented with the opportunity to regain ownership of Destinations Showcase, we were very motivated, recognizing the show's enormous value to our members as the only industry trade show specifically bringing together destinations with top meeting professionals," DMAI chief executive Michael Gehrisch said last week in announcing the sale, terms of which were undisclosed.
"We intend to invest further in the show, as we believe it can be expanded successfully for the benefit of destinations worldwide, including pursuing new partners," Gehrisch added, without providing details.
This past March more than 1,000 meeting planners attended the main show, in Washington, along with more than 200 exhibiting destinations. More than 300 planners attended the Chicago show, in June, plus more than 100 exhibiting destinations.
Next year, the Washington show is scheduled Feb. 16 at the Washington Convention Center; and the Chicago show is scheduled Aug. 1at the Hyatt Regency.
For more information about the show, visit www.destinationsshowcase.com.