March 28, 2012

The Car Wash Show is Coming to Chicago in 2014

As a Direct Result of McCormick Place Reforms Negotiated by Mayor Emanuel, Show Will Leave Las Vegas and Come to Chicago

Mayor's Press Office    312.744.3334

CHICAGO - Mayor Emanuel announced today that The Car Wash Show, one of the largest annual conventions in the nation, is coming to Chicago in 2014.

“I am pleased that The Car Wash Show is coming to Chicago, and that it’s more than 6,000 attendees will have a chance to experience all the great things our City has to offer,” said Mayor Emanuel. “Attracting shows like this is a central focus of our comprehensive business and tourism strategy; they create jobs for our residents and foster economic opportunity throughout the city. We will continue to seek more exciting shows that will bring thousands of visitors to Chicago.”

The Car Wash Show is the world's largest car wash convention and trade show, and one of North America's top 200 largest exhibitions. Approximately 6,000 attendees from more than 30 countries attend the annual event, which features 125,000 square feet of exhibits and 20 hours of business seminars.

"We're thrilled to be able to bring The Car Wash Show to Chicago in 2014," remarked International Carwash Association CEO Eric Wulf. "Chicago is a world-class convention city that will be easily accessible for our attendees and exhibitors. We're also particularly encouraged by the new convention business environment in Chicago and are excited to be able to offer a very competitive offering for our exhibitors."

Mayor Emanuel worked with representatives from McCormick Place, labor unions, and elected officials throughout the state to resolve a contentious labor dispute at McCormick Place. The resolution of that matter has led a number of trade shows and conventions to extend or re-affirm their commitments to the City of Chicago, while attracting new shows at the same time, for a total economic impact of more than $2.7 billion. Additionally, a group of hoteliers announced more than $500 million in critical upgrades which will take place as a result of this resolution.

“The Car Wash Show represents the ideal sized group to complement Chicago’s mid-sized and citywide business," said Don Welsh, President and CEO, Chicago Convention & Tourism Bureau.  “We look forward to welcoming all attendees to what is now the most customer-friendly convention and tradeshow destination in the country as a result of labor reform.” 

 

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