The ASIS International 50th Annual Seminar and Exhibits – the largest dedicated security show in the world – was the most successful event in ASIS’ 50-year history, the US-based association says.
Held in Dallas from September 27 to 30, the show attracted a record attendance of more than 19,000 people, as well as more exhibitors than ever, 842, up four per cent over the 812 who participated in 2003. The exhibitors occupied 2,245 booth spaces covering 624,371 gross sq. ft. of the Dallas Convention Center.
Aside from the floorshow, keynote speakers included Rudy Giuliani, former mayor of New York City, who spoke on leadership and vision in challenging times, and also participated in a Q&A session for program attendees. MIT professor of Management and Economics, Lester Thurow, talked about how "Fortune Favors the Bold," urging an exploratory spirit for business. The Security Insights Program featured former US Senators Steve Symms (R-Idaho) and George McGovern (D-South Dakota), who conducted an in-depth examination of four crucial security subjects in
a Congressional hearing format.
There were also more than 135 educational sessions that included programmes on terrorism, airport security, business continuity, cyber crime, physical security, disaster management, and workplace violence. Shirley Pierini, CPP, ASIS’ president, said, "The statistics of the show say it all, ASIS is where to turn regarding security. Whether for a security professional wanting to further an education, or a member of the press needing information on the industry, more and more people are discovering what we’ve known for 50 years. ASIS is definitely where the
security industry turns to network, exchange information, see new products, and get high-level industry expertise." The 2005 Seminar will be held in Orlando from September 12 to 15, 2005, and will culminate ASIS International’s Golden Jubilee Year. The show is already 82pc sold out, with 2,066 booth spaces reserved to date.
