With only a few days remaining until NeoCon, the A&D community anxiously awaits the new introductions that will be launched at this annual trade show. Given the size of the Merchandise Mart and the number of showrooms participating outside of the Mart, time management is critical to maximize your experience. I’ve had the good fortune of attending NeoCon for the last 10 consecutive years of my career – with a few notches on my stick, I think it safe to say that know a thing or two about a little thing I like to call “survival strategy”.

The Merchandise Mart. Home of NeoCon 2009.

Obviously, the amount of time you have to spend at the show will impact your plan. The 3rd, 10th and 11th floors in The Mart have permanent contract manufacturer showrooms that typically feature new products, while the 7th and 8th floors have booths from manufacturers who are temporarily exhibiting for the show. I typically start at the 11th floor and like to work my way down since the elevator often poses challenges in terms of availability. It is always easier to walk down to access the lower floors. Typically there are express elevators to floors 3,7,8,10 and 11 these floors for your convenience.

Prior to arrival it is best to schedule appointments with those manufacturers who you intend to visit and want a more thorough understanding about their new products. It is best to reach out to your local representatives to do so, because if they are not planning to attend, they can put you in touch with the appropriate contacts. I often set up my schedule starting with my appointments on the 11th floor and then work my way down to the 10th and 3rd floors. Afterward, I then review products on the 7th and 8th floors, and then also often have time to visit showrooms outside of The Mart. I usually maintain 15 minute appointments and try to schedule 2 appointments per hour. Since there will be time in between appointments, while I’m visiting a particular floor, I use that as an opportunity to review products in the smaller or new showrooms, to learn about additional resources.

If you are planning to report back in a formal context on new products, it is often challenging to take photos at the show given the volume of spectators or manufacturer’s policies about photography. I have found that the best way to acquire photos is to request press kits or just electronic images sent directly from the manufacturer. In addition, make certain to give yourself some breaks to look at products on floors with less contract driven manufacturers who may not be specifically participating in NeoCon. The Bright Group and Holly Hunt are two examples of beautiful showrooms that often have new products for NeoCon but are located on floors other than 3,7,8, 10 or 11. These manufacturers’ have high design products on floors less trafficked which often makes for a nice break during the middle or end of your day.

Chicago is a wonderful city especially in June at the time of the show. Definitely try to take advantage of opportunities to enjoy the city including architectural boat tours, Lake Michigan, The Magnificent Mile, museums and parks to name a few. Chicago is also full of culinary experiences so if you are a “foodie” savor the amazing restaurants and fine dining experiences.

And last but not least, DON’T FORGET TO WEAR COMFORTABLE SHOES!