NEPPA Changes Spring Expo Venue After 28 Years

After 28 years in Sturbridge, Mass., the New England Promotional Products Association (NEPPA) annual Spring Expo is moving to Mohegan Sun, a destination resort casino and conference center in Uncasville, Conn. The change comes as a result of member requests for a venue in a central location with incredible facilities—including beautiful rooms, a spa, pool, casino, celebrity restaurants and fabulous shopping—all at an attractive price point.

"We have been exploring the idea of changing our venue for more than eight years, but it took time, research and a lot of consideration before making the final decision; the timing is finally right," said Wanda Levy, NEPPA president. "Our Spring Expo has always delivered top ROI for our suppliers, and by moving to Mohegan Sun, this destination show will now bring even greater returns for both suppliers and distributors."

Scheduled for March 26-27, 2012, the Spring Expo is expanding from a tabletop to a booth show. Additionally, two education seminars, a new product pavilion and a blowout cocktail party—complete with hors d'oeuvres and music—have been added to round out the event. Hospitality suites are also available at a discounted rate for suppliers and distributors who want to hold sales meetings in conjunction with the show.

"This is a great move by NEPPA, as the new format makes this more than a trade show—it's an event," said Pete Zeiger, MAS, Geiger Northeast regional manager. "In fact, we are planning a regional sales meeting around it. And with the education speakers and the enormous amount of networking opportunities, there are endless possibilities to help your business."

When making the change, the NEPPA board of directors had a goal to create a useful, don't-miss event where members can grow their businesses and have fun at the same time. Attendees now have the opportunity to hold sales meetings at the resort or reserve a suite to showcase a private showing for top clients. They can even bring friends and family to make a mini-vacation out of the trip.

"People flock to Mohegan Sun from all over New England because it's such a high-energy venue, and now it will be the location for one of the best trade shows in the country," said Joshua Brooks, of multi-line rep Brooks & Brooks. "Count me in; I can't sign up fast enough."

For more information, visit NEPPA's website.