Party and Paper Magazine

HCPShow Puts Focus on Multi-Season Profitability Opportunities in 2011

TransWorld Exhibits has announced that the 27th annual Halloween, Costume & Party Show (HCPShow) will run concurrently for the first time with the Halloween & Attractions Show, featuring the Haunt Show (HAAShow), on March 10-13, at the America's Center in St. Louis, Mo.

The co-location of these flagship industry shows reflects a growing Halloween merchandising and retailing trend that encompasses other holidays and special occasion décor, special event programming and gift giving. As retailers and attractions adopt cross merchandising strategies and category extensions to augment sales and extend their selling season, the HCPShow is evolving as well to meet this retail trend by expanding into related market segments.

"Exhibitors at the HCPShow will see an expanded audience of new potential customers in 2011," said Jennifer Braverman, executive vice president of TransWorld Exhibits. "The haunt industry is still in its infancy. We're just seeing the tip of the iceberg as opportunities continue to grow for Halloween. Having the two shows co-located can only benefit the industry and offer something unique to buyers not offered at any other event."

The HCPShow and the Halloween & Attractions Show will attract the buyers of specialty holiday merchandise and buyers from theme parks, attractions, and haunt-related venues.

"Halloween merchandise is thriving as a retail category amidst economic factors that are inspiring families and individuals to seek local activities," Braverman said. "As more people opt to invest in local entertainment as alternatives to costly vacations, they create a larger demand for Halloween ‘haunt' merchandise available through these venues. These co-located shows will make it easy for Halloween retailers will find everything they need to meet that demand all in one place."

For more information, visit www.hcpshow.com or call 800-323-5462.

Originally posted Wednesday, Aug. 11, 2010