“There is no substitute for in-person networking.” We’ve experienced this ourselves and heard this line being repeated over and over again these past few months as trade shows, conferences and networking events inched their way back into our worlds. This was proven true yet again at the IES Annual Conference held in New Orleans, August 18-20, 2022. A few of us from the LightFair team had the opportunity to attend, and here’s what we noted.
Quality Networking with the Lighting Community
As the first IES Annual Conference since 2019, it was a great opportunity to reconnect and network with lighting industry friends, colleagues, association members and make new connections. It was heartening to hear award-winning lighting designer and lighting thought leader Lisa Reed report a strong Emerging Professionals group.
This group is critical to the future of our industry. LightFair participants may remember that our own Pilot Mentorship Program was very well received in 2021 and saw a 30% growth in 2022 with experienced mentors interacting one-on-one with their respective emerging professional mentees on a monthly basis. The mentors and mentees also had the opportunity to come together in person at LightFair in Las Vegas.
Mentorship Testimonial 2022
Our tabletop event at the IES Annual Conference helped us meet new sales prospects, network with current exhibitors, connect with attendees, share LightFair swag and invite more industry colleagues to engage with LightFair online via our website, social media channels and emails.
We met with representatives of industry associations such as WILD, NALMCO, IES, IALD, NACLIQ. Their presence at and support for LightFair is important and has grown in recent years, and you can expect to see our partnership grow in upcoming LightFair events.
The LightFair team enjoyed the Illumination Awards Gala Reception – an entertaining evening of music, dancing, photo booth fun and mingling with industry friends and colleagues. The well-attended event was a great opportunity to celebrate the winners and network with all the attendees and association members. Ours is an industry that works hard and plays hard. There were plenty of opportunities for both at the IES Annual Conference.
It was wonderful to be back networking with the close-knit lighting community known for working hard and playing hard! We look forward to seeing everyone in New York for LightFair 2023.
Takeaways: Products, Categories, Innovation Trends
The LightFair team attended the IES Progress Report Program 2022 where we noted insightful takeaways to help shape our sales strategy. We found it valuable to learn about the leading products approved by the Progress Committee and came away with a better understanding of where the lighting industry is headed and areas where we can anticipate growth including
- Health and lighting effects
- HVAC
- Horticulture
- Solar
- Software
The LightFair Sales team developed a deeper knowledge of vertical markets we’re targeting for 2023.
Categories for the 2022 IES Progress Report included: LED Chips and Modules, LED Replacement Lamps, Laser Source, Other LED, Downlights, Linear, Wallwash, Track, Suspended, Surface Mount, Cove, Under Cabinet, High Bay, Other Indoor, Outdoor Bollards, Roadway, Floodlights, Other Outdoor, Healthcare, Germicidal, Power Supplies and Drivers, Controls, Life Safety, Accessories, Lighting Systems, Research, Publications, and Design Tools. (Source: Edison Report)
Look for the full 2022 Progress Report listing in the November 2022 issue of LD+A.
For the LightFair team, the IES Annual Conference was an excellent opportunity to connect with the industry, reiterate the important role IES members play as supporters and advocates of LightFair and to create awareness around LightFair’s role in advancing lighting innovations.
Did you know…?
One thing that sets LightFair apart is that we are co-owned by two industry associations – the Illuminating Engineering Society and International Association of Lighting Designers – and International Market Centers as the show’s producer.
The IES and IALD leadership teams and their valued members play a key role as LightFair’s management and advisory committee members providing expertise and insights for strategic planning, program design and decision making at every step. With the IES and IALD as actively engaged co-owners, LightFair is uniquely positioned to serve the lighting industry. Together, we shape the future of lighting. And if you’re an IES or IALD member, or if your work touches lighting design and technology in any form or fashion, you belong at LightFair. Stay tuned for opportunities to speak, present and participate in LightFair 2023.
We look forward to attending the following events in the coming weeks and connecting with even more of our lighting colleagues and friends
IALD Enlighten 2022 – September 29 – October 1
IES SALC 2022 – October 10 – 13
If your work touches lighting design and technology, you belong at LightFair. Stay in the know. Participate. Drive the conversation.