The 2014 Concession & Hospitality Expo

About

The National Association of Concessionaires will bring together the top food and beverage concession leaders in the recreation and leisure-time industry at The Concession & Hospitality Expo. The Expo committee is planning terrific educational sessions, great social functions and exciting events. Check back often as the 2015 program comes together.

Formerly known as the NAC Annual Convention & Trade Show, the event is an educational conference in its 33rd year covering a wide range of concessions and foodservice topics. The business sessions are practical and focused on the concessions industry, and provide interaction between all types of operations. In addition, exciting social functions allow for attendees to network in a less formal setting. Your full convention registration fee includes all educational sessions, food functions, social events, venue tours and the trade show.

As part of the Expo, NAC will host its own trade show specifically for the recreation and leisure-time foodservice industry. The trade show will feature companies that provide products and services to all types of recreation, leisure-time and public assembly facilities. For more information on the trade show and how you can participate, click on the Trade Show tab on this page.

Make plans now to attend the 2015 Expo in Cincinnati.

CLICK HERE TO SEE PHOTOS OF THE 2014 EXPO

Wednesday, July 22

9:00 Keynote Address-The Magic of Movies

Renowned film critic Leonard Maltin will be the keynote speaker at the NAC Concession & Hospitality Expo. In, The Magic of Movies, he will speak on the importance of the in-theatre experience as a vital part of enjoying film. Maltin is a respected film critic and historian, perhaps best known for his annual paperback reference Leonard Maltin’s Movie Guide, which was first published in 1969 and is now available as iPhone and iPad app. It was joined by Leonard Maltin’s Classic Movie Guide in 2005, newly revised in 2010. His latest book is Leonard Maltin’s 151 Best Movies You’ve Never Seen. Maltin hosts the weekly program Maltin on Movies on ReelzChannel and introduces pay-per-view movies for Comcast; for 30 years he appeared on television’s Entertainment Tonight, and for three years co-hosted the movie review show Hot Ticket. He teaches at the USC School of Cinematic Arts, and was a member of the faculty at the New School for Social Research in New York City

10:30 The Food Experience

Featuring representatives from White Castle, Ruby Restaurants and Skyline Chili .

4:00 Government Relations Panel Discussion

A discussion on the latest state and federal regulatory and legislative issues that face the concession industry. Don Lear of The Hershey Company and Chair of the NAC Government Relations Committee will moderate a panel of experts.

Thursday, July 23

9:00 Making Food Jump off the Plate

Guest speaker Denise Vivaldo is an award winning food stylist, consultant, and culinary producer. A classically trained chef, Denise began her career in 1988 when she founded a catering, recipe-development, and food-styling firm in Los Angeles. Her company, Denise Vivaldo Group, Inc., continues to grow and thrive. She is also a teacher, speaker, and the author of eight books, including the much-celebrated Food Stylist’s Handbook.

Tuesday, July 21

5:45 Great American Ball Park for Cubs vs. Reds

Enjoy the great American pastime at this Cincinnati treasure. Located on the winding banks of the Ohio River in downtown Cincinnati, Great American Ball Park serves as the home of the Cincinnati Reds, baseball’s first professional franchise. The ballpark officially opened for the 2003 season, making 2015 its 13th big-league season.

Wednesday, July 22

7:00 Fun Run/Walk

Wednesday morning will start with the NAC Run/Walk before breakfast. Pre-registration is necessary. Proceeds will benefit the NAC Educational Fund.

6:00 NAC Silent Auction Reception

Guests will enjoy cocktails and spectacular food options while bidding on all types of auction items. All registered Exhibitors and Convention attendees (everyone with a badge) are welcome. Proceeds from the Silent Auction will benefit NAC educational programs.

Thursday, July 23

12:30-2:00 Annual Membership Luncheon

NAC’s Annual Business Meeting that includes the Mickey Warner Award, the Krystal La Reese-Gaule Membership Award and the election of this year’s Board of Directors.

6:00-9:00 Oktoberfest in July – Haufbrau House

Welcome to the first authentic Hofbräuhaus in America, modeled after the legendary 400+ year-old Hofbräuhaus in Munich, Germany! Guests are now able to enjoy many of the traditions from Germany that have made Hofbräuhaus famous. From the traditionally decorated rooms in the building to the beer that is brewed on-site, and of course the excellent German fare, Hofbräuhaus Newport is a memorable experience for all.

Friday, July 24

8:00-10:00 Breakfast & Community Service Project

NAC member volunteers will pack up to 500 individual gallon storage bags full of candy, popcorn, etc. The bags will be filled with the many great products that will be seen at the NAC Trade Show the previous two days, so exhibitors and members are requested to provide extra product to fulfill the need for the local USO.

Trade Show

The 2015 Trade Show is at the Duke Energy Center right across the street from the Hyatt Regency Cincinnati and will be held on Wednesday, July 22 (1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.) and Thursday, July 23 (2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.) and is open to full and tabletop displays.

Click here for a downloadable Trade Show Registration Form. Check to the graphic below for available booths. You can also contact Dan Borschke at the NAC office, 312.236.3858, dborschke@NAConline.org to reserve your booth!

Trade Show Hours
Wednesday, July 22 (1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.)
(includes lunch)

Thursday, July 23 (2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.)

New Product/Service Presentations
NAC is continuing the well-received new product/service presentations in 2015. New exhibitors will have the opportunity to participate in short product/service presentations. Time and date to be determined.

These back-to-back 3 minute presentations are optional, and open to only first-time exhibitors on a first come, first served basis. A list for these presentations will begin as booth reservations are received. There are a limited amount (20) of presentation slots

The trade show will feature products and services such as:
soft drinks • beer • iced tea • nachos • menu boards • pizza • hot dogs • soft pretzels • peanuts • pressure fryers • cotton candy • sno kones • frozen yogurt • ice cream • churros • egg rolls • condiment dispensers • mobile food carts • food warmers • holding ovens • candy • grills • BBQ• popcorn poppers • concession stands • containers & trays • architectural planning & concession design• souvenir cups/mugs • beverage dispensers • paper products • popcorn toppings & oils • point-of-sale equipment and MORE!

Don’t miss the chance to put your company in front of the leading buyers in the industry!

HOTEL

Hyatt Regency Cincinnati
151 W 5th St
Cincinnati, OH 45202
(513) 579-1234
CLICK HERE TO MAKE RESERVATIONS

Choose the newly transformed Hyatt Regency Cincinnati and experience a hotel offering every possible convenience under one roof—including the city’s largest hotel ballroom. Set in the heart of town, connected to the Duke Energy Convention Center and near an array of attractions and entertainment venues, the regal Hyatt Regency Cincinnati reigns supreme amongst downtown hotels.

Unsolicited Cincinnati Room Phone Call Scam
Apparently NAC members and exhibitors are receiving unsolicited phone calls from companies stating that they can provide you cheaper rooms than we can in Cincinnati for the The Concession & Hospitality Expo . Please be aware that these individuals and companies are known to scam clients by getting credit card numbers and pertinent information that can be used in nefarious ways. You are receiving the most affordable rate at the Hyatt Regency Cincinnati while also supporting your association at NAC. DO NOT PROVIDE THESE CALLERS ANY PERSONAL INFORMATION AND PLEASE REPORT THEM TO US AS SOON AS POSSIBLE SO THAT WE CAN PROVIDE THEM A CEASE AND DESIST LETTER ASAP.

AIR TRANSPORTATION

American Airlines is offering NAC convention attendees 5% off of any applicable fare.

You must reserve flights at the American Airlines web site. After you have selected your flight, under the “Enter Passenger Details” tab, go to the AA.com Promotion Code field and enter in 1974EG. You may also call 1-800-433-1790.

The percentage discount can be booked online at www.AA.com for American Airlines and American Eagle flights only. Itineraries involving any oneworld or codeshare partner airline must be booked through our Meeting Services Department at 800-433-1790 if calling from the US and Canada. International attendees should call their local American Airlines reservations number with the above Promotion code.

United Airlines is pleased to offer special discounts for your event. You may book online at www.united.com and enter your Offer Code ZSH3417436 in the Offer Code box when searching for your flights.

If booking through a travel professional or United Meetings at 800-426-1122, please give them the following information: Agreement Code: 417436 Z Code: ZSH3. Outside of the United States, please call your local United Airlines Reservation Office.

GROUND TRANSPORTATION

Hyatt Regency Cincinnati is centered on the majestic Ohio River just across from Kentucky. Once dubbed “The Queen City” by Longfellow; Cincinnati offers visitors a glimpse into our nation’s rich history.

Shuttle to / from Cincinnati Northern Kentucky Airport Terminal
Call Executive Transportation at 800 990 8841 or may be arranged in Cincinnati Northern Kentucky Airport Terminal (CVG)
One way to / from our hotel: $22
Roundtrip to / from our hotel: $32

Taxi to / from Cincinnati Northern Kentucky Airport Terminal
Approximately $25 one way

Megabus
Downtown Stop is 1 block from the hotel, located at the North East Corner of the intersection of 6th and Elm Street

For further information or inquiries, please contact the hotel directly at +1 513 579 1234.

Avis is offering NAC convention attendees discounted car rental for the The Concession & Hospitality Expo. The discount is valid for 7 days before and after the convention dates. Click here for the link to the Avis website; the discount will automatically insert for the best rates.

Hertz is offering The Concession & Hospitality Expo attendees discounted car rental for the NAC Convention. Click here to be taken to the Hertz website; the discount code will automatically be inserted. For pricing information for NAC attendees, click here.

Sponsorships

The Concession & Hospitality Expo provides your company with opportunities to put your products, services and brand in front of buyers for all types of recreation and leisure-time food and beverage operations. Sponsorships are available at every level and extend well past the convention itself, and benefits for each level are detailed below. Many of our sponsors also choose to extend their opportunities by registering for the full NAC convention, allowing them access to buyers at all educational sessions and social functions.

Click here for a Downloadable Sponsorship Form or contact Dan Borschke at the NAC office, 312.236.3858, dborschke@NAConline.org.

Sponsorship Benefits

Platinum Level ($10,000 and above)
Logo recognition as a platinum sponsor and major prominence on every convention page on the NAC web site throughout the year;
Recognition as a platinum sponsor in all pre-convention marketing, both in print and via email;
Company name and logo noted in day’s events in program;
Recognition as a platinum sponsor in pre- and post-convention press releases;
Signage at event;
Thank you announcement and invitation to address attendees at event;
Invitation for two to invitation-only board/sponsor VIP party on Monday, July 20;
Seated on dais and recognized as major sponsor at NAC Membership Luncheon on Thursday, July 23.

Gold Level ($5,000 to $9,999)
Logo recognition as a gold sponsor and major prominence on every convention page on the NAC web site throughout the year;
Recognition as a gold sponsor in all pre-convention marketing, both in print and via email;
Company name and logo noted in day’s events in program;
Recognition as a gold sponsor in pre- and post-convention press releases;
Signage at event;
Invitation for two to invitation-only board/sponsor VIP party on Monday, July 20;
Seated on dais and recognized as major sponsor at NAC Membership Luncheon on Thursday, July 23.

Silver Level ($2,500 to $4,999)
Logo recognition as a silver sponsor and major prominence on every convention page on the NAC web site throughout the year;
Recognition as a silver sponsor in all pre-convention marketing, both in print and via email;
Company name and logo noted in day’s events in program;
Recognition as a silver sponsor in pre- and post-convention press releases;
Signage at event;
Invitation for two to invitation-only board/sponsor VIP party on Monday, July 20;

Bronze Level ($1,000 to $2,499)
Recognition as a bronze sponsor on the NAC web site;
Recognition as a silver sponsor in all pre-convention marketing, both in print and via email;
Company name and logo noted in day’s events in program;
Recognition as a bronze sponsor in pre- and post-convention press releases;
Signage at event.

Contributing Sponsors (under $1,000)
Recognition as a educational session prize sponsor in signage;
Recognition in program as an educational session prize program sponsor;
Recognition in post-convention materials.