Inside Dallas Market Center’s Growth and the Rise of ArchLIGHT Summit

Описание: While attending Euroluce 2025 in Milan, Designing Lighting (dl) Editor Randy Reid sat down with two key figures shaping the future of lighting trade shows in the United States: Cindy Morris, President and CEO of the Dallas Market Center, and Patty Price, Director of ArchLIGHT Summit.

0:33 – History and Scope of Dallas Market Center. Cindy explains the center’s 5.5 million square-foot footprint and its wide range of product categories.
1:16 – Trade Show Overview. Discussion of Lightovation, ArchLIGHT Summit, and various other trade shows hosted annually.
1:41 – Lightovation January Date Change. Cindy confirms that the January show will start on a Saturday beginning in 2026.
2:00 – Focus on Nearshoring and Tariffs. Insight into the Nearshoring America initiative and upcoming educational talks with the National Retail Federation.
3:21 – Spectrum and International Pavilion. How Dallas supports new and international lighting companies with shared showroom space.
4:27 – New Website Launch. Cindy previews the redesigned website with buyer-focused search tools and exhibitor portals.
6:25 – Retail and Showroom Industry Trends. Consolidation and growth through expanded builder and designer channels.
7:02 – Transition to Patty Price. Randy shifts the conversation to ArchLIGHT Summit with Patty Price.
7:35 – ArchLIGHT Summit Growth. Patty confirms 110 exhibitors in 2023 and forecasts 120+ for 2024.
8:10 – Overcoming Early Challenges. Reflections on launching during COVID and what changed the trajectory.
8:23 – Importance of Agency Support. ALA’s expanded involvement with 47 booths and growing interest from other agents.
9:01 – Cost Advantages. Patty emphasizes $0 union labor and drayage fees as key benefits for exhibitors.
9:58 – Agent Participation Discussion of agents involved: Texas Lighting Solutions, Hosley, PLG, TSD, and others.
10:28 – Events and Hospitality Preview of parties and happy hours hosted by brands like Casambi and WILD.