The events division of the Motorcycle Industry Council (MIC) in the United States says it is "all change in 2019 for AIMExpo presented by Nationwide. The new and improved show will include a number of innovative features and return to the heart of the U.S. and the powersports industry in Columbus, Ohio, on September 26-29.
"The largest showcase of the motorcycle and powersports industry in North America will highlight the exciting and diverse lifestyles represented by the modern industry and desired by today’s riders. It will be more experiential than ever, with lifestyle vignettes in the exhibit hall allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the different segments that powersports has to offer," according to Cinnamon Kernes, Vice President and General Manager, MIC Events.
"AIMExpo Outdoors will allow visitors to take two-wheel test rides as well as a new-to-Columbus four-wheel dirt experience to ensure dealers and consumers are fully versed in every aspect of powersports.
Despite the move to the Midwest there will be "increased emphasis on the four-wheel segment with dirt demo rides" as part of a programme of "significant changes".
The expo floorplan will be laid out to showcase the main powersports lifestyle groups. The 'Alley' is dedicated to Street, Urban and Sport riders, the 'Camp' will focus on two and four-wheel Off-Road and Adventure enthusiasts, while the 'Shop' is where visitors will find the V-Twin, Cruiser and Custom segments - in effect seeking to create three show-within-show concepts.
"These featured 'neighbourhoods' will allow visitors to easily identify their areas of special interest and provide a more immersive experience on the show floor. Each will showcase the diversity of the modern powersports industry and highlight the latest buying trends, new machinery, parts, accessories and technologies available in each."
In recognition that the show may have gone too far with its programme of breakout sessions, Kernes says that AIMExpo is "changing the traditional show schedule to create more dedicated time for attendees to spend on the show floor. Our goal is to create the best balance of comprehensive education and time spent with our exhibiting partners and the latest products and the innovations they have to offer”.
As the ATV and side-by-side segments continue to experience growth, Kernes says that the show will "shine a spotlight on the four-wheel segment", with dirt demos returning to AIMExpo Outdoors. Product showcases, featured parts, accessories and apparel "will spotlight the lifestyle alongside the latest and greatest from the ATV and side-by-side world".
In other news, AIMExpo has confirmed that after a one-off event at Columus, Ohio, in 2017 before being staged at Las Vegas last year, it will now stay at Columbus for two years in 2019 and 2020.
www.aimexpousa.com
