The American Radio Manufacturers Association won’t hold a regional show in New England after all.
Organizer Vince Fiola said he cancelled the November show when it became clear it would lose about $10,000. He blamed several factors, including the economy, terrorism and the resulting decision by other conventions to move their dates closer to ARMA’s.
Several exhibitors had promised to take part, then backed out after Sept. 11.
Fiola, who owns cabinetry supplier Studio Technology, will still lose money on the event because he had signed a contract with a hotel in Burlington, Mass.
“I really still believe (ARMA) is a viable organization but obviously I can’t continue to pay all the money and take losses if there’s no support from the industry,” Fiola said. “I can’t have the same nine or 10 companies show up and having it cost Studio Technology money.”
Fiola still plans to hold an ARMA event in the middle Atlantic states next year, and said a winter show in Atlanta is being considered.
“It may just be the state of the world right now, and the industry as well,” he said.
