LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Registration is now open for GIE+EXPO 2018, and with the combination of expanded Wednesday hours, dynamic education and many new exhibitors, it's shaping up to be even bigger than the last three record-setting years. The annual trade show is set for October 17-19 at the Kentucky Exposition Center in Louisville and online registration is available at www.gie-expo.com. Early bird registration is $15 through Sept. 6.

According to Kris Kiser, President and CEO of the Outdoor Power Equipment Institute (OPEI), exhibit space sales are already running ahead of this time last year, and organizers anticipate topping 2017's record-breaking numbers.

Attendees can expect to see more new products than ever as the number of new exhibitors at GIE+EXPO and the co-located Hardscape North America increases each year. In addition, the Outdoor Demonstration Area, which offers the opportunity to test new products from both shows, is expected to meet or exceed last years' 20 acres.

"This year's show is a must-attend event for industry members who are looking to move their businesses to the next level," said Kiser. "With more trade show hours for dealers on Wednesday and an incredible keynote on the lineup, GIE+EXPO continues to be extremely valuable business investment for exhibitors and attendees alike."

New Wednesday Hours

As a result of the shows' continued growth, a new format is being implemented, allowing more time for dealers on the show floor on Wednesday. The indoor show floor will open exclusively for dealers, retailers and the media at Noon on Wednesday. Then, beginning at 3pm, the entire industry will be invited to visit the indoor exhibits and enjoy a welcome reception on the show floor from 5 to 7pm. The indoor exhibits and Outdoor Demonstration Area will be open Thursday and Friday for all industry members.

Kick-Off Keynote Featuring Dr. Robert Ballard

The highlight of the 2018 Dealer Day education will be the keynote by Dr. Robert Ballard, oceanographer and former U.S. Navy officer. Best known for his discovery of the RMS Titanic in 1985, 70+ years after it sank in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, Ballard combines his passion for the last great uncharted territory and a practical approach to team building and execution to entertain and motivate audiences. His presentation for dealers, set for Wednesday Oct. 17, 10:30am - 12pm, is sponsored by STIHL Inc. and included with trade show registration.

More Dealer Education

Dealership guru Bob Clements and his team are back by popular demand with their People - Process - Profit Dealer Boot Camp, which will feature four free seminars on Wednesday and Thursday mornings. Also on Wednesday, the UTV University is back. And, finally, dealer education will round out on Thursday and Friday with workshops presented by Bob Clements International, the Equipment Dealers Association and the United Equipment Dealers Association. All of these sessions are included with tradeshow registration.

GIE+EXPO 2018

GIE+EXPO's 2018 dates are Wednesday, Oct. 17-19. The annual event is sponsored by the Outdoor Power Equipment Institute, Inc. (OPEI), Professional Grounds Management Society (PGMS) and National Association of Landscape Professionals (NALP).

For information: www.gie-expo.com. Other contact points: Facebook, info@GIE-EXPO.com, Twitter @GIE_EXPO and 800-558-8767/812-949-9200.