LIGHTFAIR International (LFI) is the world’s largest annual architectural and commercial lighting trade show and conference. In its 24th year, LFI expands to become the single largest trade show in its history and has more than 500 exhibitors and more than 23,000 registered attendees. We talked to Rochelle Burt, the organization’s vice president, about what to expect for LFI 2013.
Getting Out
Philadelphia has a diverse selection of green programs to experience while attending Lightfair. Here’s a roundup of what to see and do.
Reading Terminal Market sells local organic produce and is near the Pennsylvania Convention Center.
The Pennsylvania Horticultural Society offers programs including green roof tours and community gardens and parks.
Lenfest Plaza, which connects the Pennsylvania Convention Center and the museums on the Parkway, is a great opportunity to see a lighting project by The Lighting Practice, a company that focuses on sustainable design.
Fork is a contemporary American restaurant a mere 20-minute walk from the convention center. The menu is changed weekly based on what produce is in season.
gb&d: What is LFI doing to be greener this year?
Rochelle Burt:Â LFI looks for opportunities to improve on its sustainability and green initiatives across all areas of operations. Our signage is printed on recycled material and recycled after the show, our carpet is recycled by being reused or resold, and we have significantly reduced the duplication and mailing of show badges and quantity of on-site printed materials. LFI partners with vendors with similar practices.
gb&d: What’s new and noteworthy this year?
Burt: At LFI 2013, we have expanded the event to include Hall F to accommodate the increased demand for the show and in anticipation of another record-breaking event. We will have the debut of the new exterior and roadway lighting pavilion, introduce solar and software as two new categories, and offer new conference tracks. There will be an expanded networking program including events in the Spotlight Lounge in Hall F. Lightfest will take place on the evening of April 23 at the Pennsylvania Convention Center immediately following the closing of the trade show floor. It will give everyone—attendees, exhibitors, and media—an opportunity to network and enjoy the festivities.
gb&d:Â How important is this show?
Burt:Â The importance of Lightfair International is seen clearly in research. Exhibitor and attendee survey results repeatedly tell us that Lightfair is a show of necessity and the most important show in our business.
