PLANNING UNDERWAY

For many, it’s a rite of passage; for others it’s a bucket-list item.

Going on 33 years, the annual PRI Trade Show has evolved from modest beginnings—Louisville, KY: 169 exhibitors, 238 total booths—to become the global epicenter of new racing technology, business, education, and solutions. Upwards of 1,100 motorsports parts manufacturers and service providers now regularly occupy the Indiana Convention Center and Lucas Oil Stadium for three days of nonstop activity that includes product introductions, equipment demonstrations, industry announcements, and much more. 

Racing and performance professionals have made PRI a can’t-miss event. And the team here works our tails off year-round to produce a Show that delivers great value, in an environment where it doesn’t matter the size or nature of your operation—from a two-person engine shop to multi-car teams at the highest levels of competition, all can benefit from this vibrant, innovative marketplace.

Which brings us to PRI 2020. Set for December 10–12, this year’s edition is going to look a little different. How different? Those details are still being hammered out. But I can tell you that our Trade Show department, led by Director Karin Davidson, is working closely with industry experts and health officials to develop a plan that’ll allow us to host the safest, most productive event possible.

Our goal has always been to help manufacturers showcase new and race-winning products, to connect businesses with one another, and to facilitate the exchange of ideas and expertise. As the world—and this industry—adjusts to the COVID-19 pandemic, our mission won’t change; we’ll just have to take certain precautions to minimize the risks while still allowing exhibitors and buyers to conduct business.

Speaking of which, we’re happy to report that PRI booth reservations have remained strong right up through our initial floor plan plotting. In fact, by the time you read this you’ll be able to see an early layout of this year’s Show. You will notice, too, that much of the Show floor looks very much the same as last year’s, and the years before that. 

You’ll see over 1,000 exhibitors—including dozens of first-timers—who have already committed to display; you’ll see our trailer exhibits on the field at Lucas Oil Stadium, and our Featured Products Showcase just off the South endzone; and you’ll see our world-famous Machinery Row, right in its familiar location along the west end of the Convention Center’s Yellow Hall. For more on what’s in store for the Row, have a look at our special preview article, product spotlight, and exhibitor listing beginning on page 12 of this issue.

In the weeks and months ahead we’ll be continuing to provide the latest PRI Show information and updates through our digital channels, which include regular email announcements, a weekly eNewsletter, our social media pages, and a totally revamped website at performanceracing.com. Clean, easy to navigate, and highly intuitive, the new site came online just last month. We hope you find it user-friendly, as it will become another tool to help keep you educated and informed on the Show, as well as what’s happening throughout the motorsports industry.

Until next time…. Stay tuned, stay safe, and stay positive. And as always, don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions, concerns, or feedback. That’s why we’re here. 

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