It’s time for the NHS once again…..I first exhibited at this show when it was still in Chicago in 1997. In those days it was in August which, by general agreement, was simply too late in the year. As the Show was wilting year on year, the organisers moved it to Vegas in May 2004, where it has remained, apart from a brief one year diversion to Orlando.
The first year in Vegas was a great show, the lure of Vegas and better timing meant that visitor numbers were well up, and along with a robust economy at the time, business in the US was flourishing. After the honeymoon had worn off, the show seemed to lose some of its attraction, but I sense over the last couple of years it has had a mini-revitalisation, no doubt helped by the US economy seeming to be getting stronger again.
For most people Vegas is like marmite, you love it or hate it. It’s certainly changed a lot even over the last 10 years. Where it used to be relatively cheap place to stay and eat, it has now become a major tourist destination and nothing like as cheap as it used to be.
For those who like gambling chips as much as steak and chips, the NHS is a great show to visit for 3 days, combining business and fun. Just remember to leave your credit card in your room if you end up at the tables, especially after a boozy dinner…