Canadian Music Trade - December / January 2020 | Page 25

JL: Our goal, as the stable, reliable platform for the industry to convene, is to ensure that everyone walks through the door, hangs up their coat, kicks off their shoes, and says, “I’m home!” (Metaphorically, of course!) With care- ful consideration of the needs of the communi- ties, we listen to member feedback through the post-show survey, respond to input for curated education and meaningful networking events, all in a model of continuous improvement. CMT: Any advice for Canadians making the trip to Anaheim on how to maximize their investment in The NAMM Show? JL: If I had one piece of advice, it’s to start planning now! The NAMM Show app has everything you need to begin to plan your time on the show site, from NAMM U sessions to the fun events. Careful preparation and inten- tion will help to make the most of your time at The NAMM Show. PLAN YOUR SHOW The NAMM Show Campus Anaheim Convention Center 800 West Katella Ave. Anaheim, CA 92802 Exhibits, special events, educational sessions, and more will take place on Levels 1-3, Halls A-E, and Mezzanines A-D in the main conven- tion centre building and the adjoining ACC North. The NAMM Idea Center can again be found in the lobby of the main conven- tion centre, with professional development sessions taking place next door at the NAMM U Education Center at the Hilton Anaheim. The Marriott hosts a number of special events, awards shows, parties, and banquets. Also returning will be live music on five stages across the NAMM Campus, including the recently- added Arena Plaza Stage. Ed Sheeran & George Lowden My Show Planner Retail Financial Summit This online tool from NAMM allows attendees to better plan their show experience. Users can explore the educational offerings and exhibitors, plan their schedule, find recom- mendations based on preferences, and sync this information with the NAMM Show app. Users can also browse exhibitors by category, name, and geographic location through its advanced search features. Also explore educational, networking, and entertainment events by type, title, and keynote speakers. Go to namm20.mapyourshow.com. Wednesday, Jan. 15 th Held the day before The NAMM Show, finan- cial experts Alan Friedman and Daniel Jobe of Friedman, Kannenberg & Co. will present this full-day workshop that focuses on inventory management. Attendees can discover critical skills needed to ensure fiscal balance in today’s competitive marketplace. In an extended Q&A, Friedman and Jobe will discuss the trends and training needed for a healthy bot- tom line, as well as new solutions and insight. SPECIAL INITIATIVES Retail Innovation Summit Wednesday, Jan. 15 th Formerly called Retail Boot Camp, this full- day, intensive educational event held the day prior to the show is free to all NAMM Show attendees. It will be hosted by marketing guru Marcus Sheridan, who will present the types of content that translate into revenue, re- vealing what the customer wants and how retail- ers can deliver. It’s designed for everyone in the organization, whether they’re an owner, manager, or first-time sales- person. Synth Showcase This year, a series of showcases will be intro- duced to serve as the centrepiece of several product segment “neighbourhoods.” The Synth Showcase, located between the front entrances of Halls A and B, will feature the latest in ana- log and digital synthesizer technology, connect- ing a global community of synth enthusiasts, professionals, and thought-leaders. Boutique Guitar Showcase Located in Hall D, the Boutique Guitar Showcase is a curated collection of boutique instrument makers from around the world, held within a space that is designed to meet the needs of the artisans. Entertainment Technology Showcase This new NAMM Show feature will see innova- tive products and side-by-side demos of the latest innovations and brands in the event production world. With a dedicated lighting zone complete with dimmed overhead lights, attendees will discover the latest tools needed to produce an exemplary tour, from rigging to video consoles. CANADIAN MUSIC TRADE 25