AVIXA Acquires Lightapalooza, Plans Co-Located Show at InfoComm 2027

Key facts

• AVIXA acquired Lightapalooza from the Home Technology Specialists of America (HTSA).
• Lightapalooza will co-locate with InfoComm 2027 in Orlando.
• Lightapalooza launched in 2022, focusing on residential illumination, energy control, and natural light optimization.
• InfoComm 2027 is billed as 'The World's Most Vital Pro AV Show' by AVIXA.
• Lightapalooza brings together custom electronics integrators, lighting manufacturers, and lighting designers.
• The acquisition expands AVIXA's reach into the residential lighting sector.

AVIXA Expands Portfolio with Lightapalooza Acquisition

AVIXA has acquired the Lightapalooza residential lighting conference and trade show from the Home Technology Specialists of America (HTSA). The deal marks a strategic move to integrate residential lighting expertise into AVIXA's existing pro AV ecosystem. The next edition of Lightapalooza will be co-located with InfoComm 2027 in Orlando, an event AVIXA describes as 'The World's Most Vital Pro AV Show.' Lightapalooza, launched in 2022, centers on residential illumination, energy control, and natural light optimization. The show attracts custom electronics integrators, lighting manufacturers, and lighting designers, creating a niche community that AVIXA aims to broaden. By co-locating, AVIXA hopes to cross-pollinate audiences and offer attendees a comprehensive experience spanning both residential and commercial AV markets. The acquisition comes as the events industry increasingly seeks to combine specialized verticals with large-scale platforms. AVIXA's move mirrors a trend of consolidation and collaboration among trade show organizers to deliver more value to exhibitors and attendees alike.

Kinsey Fabrizio to Lead CTA with Clear Vision and Contagious Optimism

Effective May 1, Kinsey Fabrizio will assume the role of President and CEO of the Consumer Technology Association (CTA). Fabrizio, who has been with the association since 2008, has led major transformations and improvements to both the CTA and its flagship CES event. Her appointment signals continuity and a focus on innovation in the consumer technology space. Fabrizio's tenure at CTA has been marked by successful initiatives that enhanced the association's global reach and the CES brand. Industry observers expect her to maintain CTA's momentum while navigating challenges such as shifting attendee expectations and evolving sponsorship models. Her leadership style is described as clear, principled, and contagiously optimistic. The transition occurs at a time when trade shows like CES are redefining their value propositions. Fabrizio's experience positions her to steer CTA through a period of rapid technological change and increasing competition among major events.

New Orleans Convention Center Undergoes $763 Million Modernization

The New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center is undergoing a transformative $763 million modernization, reinforcing its position as a premier venue for large-scale trade shows. The investment aims to upgrade infrastructure, expand capacity, and enhance the attendee experience. New Orleans and Company, the city's destination marketing organization, sponsored the announcement, highlighting the city's commitment to hosting major events. The modernization project is designed to meet the needs of trade show organizers who require state-of-the-art facilities and seamless logistics. New Orleans has long been a popular destination for conventions, and this investment is expected to attract even larger events. The convention center's upgrades include improved technology, flexible meeting spaces, and enhanced connectivity. For trade show organizers, success starts with the right infrastructure, and New Orleans is positioning itself as a future-ready meetings campus. The $763 million investment underscores the competitive nature of the convention industry, where cities vie for lucrative business events.

SOHO Healthfest 2026 Draws Natural Products Industry to Texas

From April 17-19, members of the natural products industry gathered at the Hilton Dallas/Rockwall Lakefront for SOHO Healthfest 2026. The event, produced by SENPA, attracted independent retailers selling dietary supplements, beauty products, clothing, and organic products. Attendees were treated to a full day of top-notch education programming designed to keep them abreast of new trends and products. The conference provided networking opportunities and insights into the rapidly growing natural products sector. With consumer demand for organic and sustainable goods on the rise, events like SOHO Healthfest play a crucial role in connecting retailers with suppliers and thought leaders. The Rockwall location offered a lakeside setting conducive to business and relaxation. SOHO Healthfest's focus on education underscores the industry's need for continuous learning in a dynamic market. The event's success reflects the resilience of niche trade shows that cater to specific verticals.

Fastest 50 Education Summit Tackles Disruption as a Discipline

On April 23, 2026, events industry thought leaders convened in Baltimore for the Fastest 50 Education Summit, themed 'Disruption as a Discipline.' The summit was designed to help attendees navigate an increasingly turbulent landscape and thrive amid changing attendee expectations, new sponsorship offerings, and upgraded venues. The event was part of Trade Show Executive's Fastest 50 Awards & Summit, which celebrated the fastest-growing trade shows in the U.S. More than 170 event professionals gathered from April 22-24 for the 13th edition of the Fastest 50 Awards & Summit. The event provided top-tier networking opportunities and an elite Education Summit, culminating in an Awards Gala that recognized honorees and presented Grand Awards. Early arrivals enjoyed exclusive networking on April 21. The summit's focus on disruption reflects a broader industry recognition that adaptability is key to survival. Organizers emphasized the need for event professionals to embrace change and innovate continuously. The ten takeaways from the summit offered actionable strategies for thriving in a volatile environment.

CzechTourism Lures Buyers with Annual Travel Trade Day in Prague

Prague hosted the ninth annual Czechia Travel Trade Day (TDD), the largest incoming tourism event in the Czech Republic. The 'City of 100 Spires' provided a picturesque backdrop for attendees, who enjoyed walking tours of its preserved Old Town and visits to edgy contemporary venues. The event aimed to attract international buyers and showcase the country's tourism offerings. CzechTourism's annual trade day is a key platform for networking and business development in the travel industry. By bringing together buyers and sellers, the event facilitates partnerships that drive tourism to the Czech Republic. Prague's historic charm combined with modern amenities makes it an attractive destination for such gatherings. The success of TDD highlights the importance of destination marketing in a competitive global tourism market. As travel rebounds post-pandemic, events like this are crucial for rebuilding connections and stimulating demand.

Industry Icon Linda Ritchie Set to Retire as NEC Venue Manager

Linda Ritchie, a revered figure in the events industry, is set to retire as Venue Manager at the NEC. Her career spans decades, during which she has been instrumental in shaping the venue's success and reputation. Ritchie's retirement marks the end of an era for the NEC and the broader events community. Ritchie's leadership and dedication have earned her widespread respect among colleagues and industry peers. Her departure leaves a void that will be challenging to fill. The NEC has not yet announced a successor, but the search is expected to attract top talent from around the world. Ritchie's retirement serves as a reminder of the human element behind large-scale events. Her legacy includes not only operational excellence but also mentorship of countless professionals who have gone on to lead their own teams.

The bottom line

• AVIXA's acquisition of Lightapalooza and co-location with InfoComm 2027 signals a strategic push into residential lighting and cross-sector synergy.
• Kinsey Fabrizio's appointment as CTA President and CEO brings continuity and optimism to the consumer technology association and CES.
• New Orleans' $763 million convention center modernization underscores the competitive investment cities make to attract trade shows.
• SOHO Healthfest 2026 demonstrated the vitality of niche events in the natural products industry, with strong education and networking.
• The Fastest 50 Education Summit's 'Disruption as a Discipline' theme reflects the industry's focus on adaptability and innovation.
• Czechia Travel Trade Day in Prague continues to be a key platform for tourism marketing, blending historic charm with modern business needs.