New European Dates for PLASA Focus

PLASA Focus is set to debut in two new European locations in 2014 -- Brussels in November and Glasgow in December.

PLASA Events will lay down roots in two iconic European cities later this year. PLASA Focus events in Brussels and Glasgow represent a new era for the regional show format, which launched in Leeds, UK, in 2009. Having already expanded in to various North American cities, PLASA Focus: Brussels and PLASA Focus: Glasgow will answer market demand for more European events.

PLASA Focus: Brussels takes place at The Square Meeting Center, November 3 - 4. The show, which will attract visitors from across the Benelux region, has already received over 70 exhibitor applications. Those confirmed include Highlite, Robe, Chauvet, Shure, TMB, Soundsystem BVBA, EMD Music, XLR, Elation, Altman Lighting, and Total Solutions.

The recently developed conference and event venue is situated in the renovated Palais des Congrès, overlooking the city from the Mont des Arts district. This area is known for its hotels, bars, and restaurants, and is also the site of the city's major cultural attractions. Just a few minutes walk from Brussels Central Station, and less than 20 minutes travel time from the airport, the venue is well served by transport links. It also has 660 car parking spaces.

The following month, PLASA Focus: Glasgow will be held at the Scottish Exhibition and Conference Center (SECC), December 2 - 3. As the first show of its kind in Scotland for five years, it is being warmly welcomed by the entertainment technology industry. This has been reflected in the number of applicants -- over 50 exhibitor applications have been submitted, with companies like Polar Audio, Stage Electrics, Avolites, FBT, SSE Audio, Blacklight, LMC Audio, Robe, and Ambersphere already confirmed.

The SECC is Scotland's premier national venue for public events, concerts, and conferences. Situated on the banks of the River Clyde, just west of the city center, the SECC is easily reached by plane, car, or train. A journey from Glasgow Prestwick Airport will take about 45 minutes, while Glasgow International Airport is only 15 minutes drive away.

PLASA's director of events, Christopher Toulmin, comments: "Since the foundation and subsequent success of the first Focus event in Leeds, there have been requests for PLASA to extend this model further throughout the UK and Europe. I am pleased to confirm that this request is now becoming a reality with the launch of two new events for 2014, both here in the UK and on mainland Europe."

"We are beginning this new journey in the vibrant and beautiful city of Brussels and Glasgow -- European City of Culture and home this summer's Commonwealth Games. Both events will continue to bring new regional audiences everything our existing visitors have come to expect from PLASA Focus: Good representation from key industry brands, educational opportunities through our Professional Development Program, and the time to network with industry colleagues. Exhibitors can look forward to well-run events, high quality visitors with decision making powers, and cost effective solutions with an extremely attractive return on both investment and business objectives."

Since it was launched in Leeds five years ago, the PLASA Focus format has grown a reputation for supporting meaningful conversations, whether it's around the exhibitor stands or within the Professional Development Program. The new shows will bring together the same popular elements -- leading manufacturers, dealers, rental houses, production companies, and a free program of seminars, product demonstrations, and training -- mixing them with the unique characteristics of each host city.

Details of the Professional Development Programs and after hours activities will be announced in the coming months. Visitors can keep up-to-date with the latest news from each show by visiting the PLASA Focus website (www.plasafocus.com) and registering for free. Companies looking for more information about exhibiting at any of the European Focus shows should contact David Westbrooke at PLASA Events at david.westbrooke@plasa.org or +44 (0)20 7370 8467.