March conventions hit record

Wednesday, March 3, 2004 | 11:18 a.m.

For the first time in the Las Vegas Convention Center's 45-year history, 20 separate trade shows and events will occupy the building this month.

The shows mark a monthly record and are expected to attract about 190,000 attendees with an estimated nongaming economic impact of $265 million.

Last March, the convention center hosted 19 shows and 163,000 attendees.

The shows include the Associated Surplus Dealers/Associated Merchandise Dealers, the Nightclub & Bar Convention and Tradeshow, the International Health Racquet and Sportsclub Association, Lightfair International, International Wireless Communications Expo and the National Association of Pizza Operators.

March is one of the strongest months of the year for attracting conventions in part because of the inviting climate after the winter doldrums, said Nancy Murphy, vice president of sales for the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority.

The increase is indicative of stronger trends across the convention business in Las Vegas, which continues to attract shows from other cities, convention authority spokesman Rob Powers said.