At first no one thought the WCAF show would do well either, but look at it now. Who knew Atlanta would grow so big. I remember the first time the PPFA went there, it was a good show, but it has grown to be huge. Who would have thought the New York show would fade, it has been so successful for so long and has so much going for it, the framing combined with Art Expo. A lot of international visitors go there. Isn't there a cheaper, easier venue in New York, or just outside?
I believe the PPFA actually started the whole framing trade show thing and one of the reasons DECOR was able to make inroads originally was because their shows cost so much less for the vendors and framers. Part of the reason WCAF does so well is the education drew framers, then vendors noticed and now it is a well-rounded show. I think framers go for education, but also because it is reasonable in price, easy to get to, lots to do besides just the show, even when at first there were few vendors.
The PPFA Convention draws more framers as well as related industry attendees every year, vendors are missing a very large market so who knows what will happen. My classes last year were huge.
There are no crystal balls but it seems, given a choice, framers and vendors will go where it is cheaper and easier yet still get their needs met. The industry, both framing and art, has gone through such a metamorphous over the last five years, I don’t think any show should consider itself permanent, sort of like the frame shop itself. We all have to keep learning and adapting.
Rick
