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• Move-In, Show and Move-Out Hours
• Move-In / Move-Out Procedure for POV Exhibitors
• Chicago Comic and Entertainment Expo State Sales Tax Issues
• Show Information (A-Z)
• Exhibitor Check List
• Show Management Contacts
• Exhibitor Savings – Chicago Labor
• GES (Global Experience Specialists)
• ETS Telecommunication & Internet
• Green Initiatives

Move-in, Show and Move-Out Hours

Move-In and Set-Up Hours:

Wednesday, April 11, 2012	1:00 PM – 4:30 PM
Thursday, April 12, 2012	8:00 AM – 4:30 PM

Show Floor Hours:

Friday, April 13, 2012	10:00 AM – 1:00 PM (Open to Professionals only) 1:00 PM – 7:00 PM (Open to Public)
Saturday, April 14, 2012	10:00 AM – 7:00 PM (Open to Public)
Sunday, April 15, 2012	10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Open to Public)

*Badged Exhibitors will have access to the Show Floor at 8:00 AM  each morning.

PLEASE NOTE: Children under the age of 16 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian at all times. There will be no exceptions.

Dismantling and Move-Out Hours:

Sunday, April 15, 2012	5:01 PM – 9:00 PM
Monday, April 16, 2012	8:00 AM - 12:00 PM

In accordance with the display rules and regulations, no Exhibits or display may be dismantled before the official close of the Show at 5:00 PM on Sunday, April 15, 2012.

For Complete details on OVERTIME CHARGES please refer to the individual order forms for each area/service. Rule of Thumb is that any work performed before 8:00 AM and after 4:30 PM on weekdays and anytime on Saturday and Sunday will be considered Overtime. Please refer to the General Contractor Section for more information.

Exhibitors wishing to be loaded out on Sunday evening should be packed and carriers checked in to the Marshalling Yard by 9pm on Sunday, April 15.  Carrier load out will continue until Midnight, or until all vehicles that were checked in have been loaded” Click Here for more details on move-out from our General Contractor located in section G-1.

Move-In / Move-Out Procedure for POV Exhibitors

The C2E2 Program has TWO methods for exhibitors who are planning on using their Privately Owned Vehicles (POV's) to assist in bringing in their tradeshow materials:

1. C2E2 Lend-A-Hand – Assisted labor based program
2. McCormick Place ASUV procedure – Self unload/load program

To assist you in any way, please feel free to contact the ReedPOP Operation Manager directly to help you in deciding what method works best for you – Skip Haile – 203-840-5912.

What is the difference between Lend-A-Hand and ASUV Programs?

1. ASUV Program is offered during all move in and move out hours - Lend-A-Hand is only offered on specific times
2. There is no charge in using either program
3. Both programs only are offered to Personally Owned Vehicles (POV's) described below - all trucks must check in at the marshalling yard and follow the procedures described in the show manual
4. The ASUV Program allows you 20 minutes to unload your car and you hand carry or use non-motorized cart (no plallet jacks) to bring items to your booth. The Lend-A-Hand does not have a time limit and all materials are brought to your booth at no-charge
5. The ASUV Program requires you have two people – one to unload and one person to remain with the car at att times
6. To use the ASUV program you must log in register via the following link: http://www.truticket.com/asuv/landing.htm.  All instructions will be emailed to you after you complete the registration  - View further details.

Who Qualifies for this program?

For both the C2E2 Lend-A-Hand Program and ASUV Program a "POV's" (personally owned vehicles) is defined as an SUV, Car or a truck no larger than a Ford Econoline van. All box trucks regardless of length and vehicles with trailers do not quality for these programs and must following the freight loading requirements.

Where do I go for this Program?

For both the C2E2 Lend-A-Hand Program and ASUV Program you must check in at the Marshalling Yard Located at 2900 South Moe Drive, Chicago, IL 60616. Please click below for a map. Again, you must check into the Marshalling Yard first prior to going to the Convention Center. - Recorded directions can be found at 312-808-3161 – Click here for map.

Once you get to the Marshalling yard - signage for both programs will identify each, you will receive a dock pass with instructions on where you are to go to unload and load your materials.

How does move-out work?

Directions to Marshalling Yard?

Directions: I-55 North to Lake Shore Drive South exit, stay in right lane and exit at 31st Street. At the end of the exit ramp is a sign that says "McCormick Place Truck Marshalling". Take a right via a wide U-turn that will take you to the Marshalling Yard that is on the left.

What Else Should I know?

Arrive Time:  For both programs, it is recommended to arrive early as possible on times listed above

Unloading and Loading Labor: C2E2 Labor is included during hours posted and for the ASUV Program, you are responsible for completing the unloading / loading of materials

Who brings show materials to your booth: C2E2 Lend-A-Hand program will bring all materials to your booth at no cost - as long as you are within the dedicated times above. For the ASUV Program, you are responsible for bringing your show materials to your booth.

Who long do I have to load and unload: C2E2 Lend-A-Hand program time is unlimited and the ASUV Program allows you 20 minutes.

Is Tipping allowed: For both programs there is no tipping allowed.

Can I park in Marshalling Yard: Yes for both programs you can park in he Marshalling Yard Overnight for the nightly fee of $19/day

Questions: Skip Haile – ReedPop Operations Manager at 203-840-5912 

Chicago Comic & Entertainment Expo State Sales Tax Issues

This document addresses the issue of the collection of sales tax at Chicago Comic & Entertainment Expo. If you do not plan to make direct sales at Chicago Comic & Entertainment Expo, you need not read any further.

All Chicago Comic & Entertainment Expo Exhibitors must comply with the sales tax laws of the State of Illinois. To this end, we are required to notify you that form REG-1 that must be completed and mailed, faxed or completed online. If you send by mail the application can take 6-8 weeks. If you register online your application will be processed in 1-2 days. If you register in person certificate will be processed in 1-2 days.

It will be your responsibility to determine whether or not you are required to apply for a tax certificate and collect sales tax. You can do this by obtaining and reading the publication for retailers at: http://www.revenue.state.il.us with pertinent information listed under Publication 113

You can receive your certificate of Registration either online, in person or by mail by the following methods:

1. Online- by downloading the form directly from the internet using the URL below:
   http://www.revenue.state.il.us Click on “Information for Businesses” and then click on “Business Registration”. The website will walk you through the process.
2. In person in at the:
   Chicago at the James R. Thompson Center-Concourse Level
   100 West Randolph Street
   Chicago, IL 60601-3274
   312-814-5232
   Hours open are: 8:30am-5:00pm on Weekdays only-application will take 1-2 days
3. By mail using enclosed registration form TAXFORMREG-1.pdfand mailing application to:
   Center Registration Division
   Illinois Department of Revenue
   PO Box 19476
   Springfield, IL 62794-9476

Questions regarding the completion of form REG-1 can also be resolved by contacting the IL State Tax Department at 217-785-3707 between the hours of 8:30 AM and 5:00 PM (Eastern Time).

Tax Certificates MUST be displayed in your booth during Show hours.

Please contact the IL State Tax Department if you have questions regarding the rate at which tax must be computed charged and collected. 

It is important that you call the State of Illinois after the event closes and close your account, otherwise you may be expected to make a monthly tax payment. The number to call is 217-785-3707.

Show Information (A-Z Guide)

Age Restrictions:

For security reasons, children under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult at all times.

Audio Visual:

Freeman Production Group is the official audio/visual services provider. They will maintain a full staff on site. Please click here for the  Audio Visual  section of the Exhibitor Manual for information and order forms

Booth Furnishings:

Booth equipment, services and furnishings are available through the Official General Contractor, GES (Global Experience Specialists). Order Forms for these services should be completed and returned promptly to take advantage of the advance discount pricing. Please be sure to indicate your booth number on all forms. Click here for the General Contractorsection of the Exhibitor Manual for information and order forms – located in the Decorating Service section.

Business Center:

The McCormick Place Convention Center will operate a full service business center on-site to provide copy and fax services, cell phone and pager rental and small package shipping, etc. Please click here for the Business Center section of the Exhibitor Manual for information and order forms.

Catering:

Savor…Chicago at McCormick Place has exclusive rights to all catering in the facility. Please click here for the Official Catering section of the Exhibitor Manual for information and order forms. Also any questions on personal consumption beverages and food click here for the catering rules.

Cleaning:

Cleaning crews will be provided for general exhibit hall clean up, including aisles, each day before the opening of the show and during show hours. If you need cleaning services in your booth – vacuuming, shampooing, trash removal – you can order these services by using the Cleaning Order Form in the General Contractor section. Show Management does not provide cleaning or vacuuming for booth carpet at any time.

Computer Rentals:

National Micro Rentals Staging & Events is the official computer supplier. They will maintain a full staff on site for all of your computer needs. Please click here for the Computer Rental section of the Exhibitor Manual for information and order forms.

Copyrighted Music:

If any copyrighted music is to be played in your booth, you must obtain all necessary licenses from the copyright owner or licensing agency representing the copyright owner. The licensing requirements include the playing of live, as well as recorded music, (records, tapes, compact discs, etc.) and also include music, whether it is the essence of the presentation or is only used as background, on a videotape or other presentation.

The proper license must be posted in your booth and available for inspection at the request of Show Management or properly authorized agents of ASCAP or BMI. We advise you to contact these agencies as listed below to acquire the proper licenses:

ASCAP Licensing Dept. 1 Lincoln Plaza New York, NY 10023 Tel: 212-621-6000

BMI (Broadcast Music, Inc.) 10 Music Square East Nashville, TN 37203-4399 Tel: 800-925-8451, 615-401-2000

Adherence to these federally mandated copyright licensing laws is of critical importance. Failure to do so is both a violation of federal copyright law and a breach of your contract for Exhibit space for the Show.

Crate Removal, Storage and Return:

Empty crates will be removed to storage and returned to your booth at the end of the Show by our floor crew at no additional charge, provided you have used material handling services for the delivery of your booth. Do not store merchandise in crates or cartons marked for empty storage.

Display Rules and Regulations:     

The following rules and guidelines specify what an Exhibitor can and cannot do with their booth space. These rules and guidelines are based on the physical characteristics of the Exhibit Hall, the intent to be equally fair to all Exhibitors and the safety of all concerned. Please review these rules and plan your display accordingly as variances will not be granted prior to the Show or on-site.

Demonstration Areas:

Demonstration areas must be confined within the Exhibit space so as not to interfere with any traffic in the aisles. Exhibitors must contract sufficient space to be able to comply with this rule.

When large crowds gather to watch a demonstration and interfere with the flow of traffic down the aisles or create excessive crowds at neighboring booths, it is an infringement on the rights of other Exhibitors. Aisles may not be obstructed at any time.

Demonstration Equipment:

Equipment, product or machinery, when displayed to demonstrate or simulate industrial application, are exempt from the foregoing height limits, but are restricted only by ceiling height, as well as building and safety codes.

Exposed Areas Must Be Finished:

All back-walls, sidewalls or any other exposed areas of the display must be draped or finished surfaces. No graphics, logos, or print facing into another booth is allowed. Any company advertisement or promotion must face into the aisle.

In-line and peninsula booths must have a finished back wall covering the back of the booth. See-through back walls or displays which do not cover the back wall completely will not be allowed.

Please note that ALL FIRE HOSE CABINETS MUST BE KEPT VISIBLE AND CLEAR.

After 9:00 AM on Opening Day (Friday, April 13, 2012) any part of a booth with unfinished side or back-walls will be draped by Show Management at the expense of the Exhibitor.

Graphics On Neighbors' Side:

The backside of walls - the common border facing a neighboring booth - must be clear of copy, logos, or other graphics, so as not to be an eyesore to neighboring Exhibitors.

Height Limitations:

The Chicago Comic & Entertainment Expo follows the cubic content rule, which allows Exhibitors to make maximum use of their booth space. Under the cubic content rule, Exhibitors may build up to the front of their booths and up to the maximum allowable height according to booth type as indicated below.

Examples of Cubic Content

The following maximum height limits will be strictly enforced. No height variances will be granted prior to or on site at the show. Please plan your booth display and sign structures accordingly.

• Linear Booth - Bounded by 1 or 2 aisles - 12 Feet
• Perimeter In-Line Booth - Bounded by 1 or 2 aisles and situated along the perimeter of the show floor – 12 Feet
• Peninsula Booth - 18 Feet
• Island Booth - 20 Feet

PLEASE NOTE: Nothing will be permitted above these maximum heights, including signs, banners, truss structures, lighting, and display materials

Inspection Deadline:

Any booth not occupied by Opening Day (Friday, April 12, 2011), will be presumed abandoned. If there is freight in the booth and Show Management believes the Exhibitor will be late, then GES will set up the display as best they can with the information available. If there is no freight in the booth and/or Show Management believes the Exhibitor will not participate in the Show, the booth will be reassigned. Exhibitors arriving after this time will be given space available and may incur additional costs.

No shipments will be accepted at McCormick Place after Thursday, April 11, 2012 at 2:00 PM. Absolutely no shipment, equipment, or material may be brought onto the Show floor during Show hours.

Exhibitor Registration:

Exhibitor staff personnel wishing to enter the Exhibit floor must wear an Exhibitor Badge at all times. Please refer to the Exhibitor Badges section for order information.

Exhibitor Service Area:

GES will maintain an Exhibitor Service Center during set-up, Show days and dismantling. All other official Show contractors will also be set up in this area as well. Refer to the Show Information G-1 page in the General Contractor section of the Exhibitor Manual for hours of operation.

All inquiries regarding booth services and orders should be made at the Exhibitor Service Center, including booth furnishings, labor, freight, utilities and special Show services. Exhibitors who have ordered labor are asked to check in at this desk when they are ready to install their Exhibits.

The person in charge of your Exhibit should carefully inspect and sign for all work order forms. If you disagree with a bill presented for your signature, question it immediately. If you cannot come to a satisfactory agreement with the contractor, contact Show Management. Do not put it off. Once the Show has ended, it becomes very difficult to resolve issues.

Fire and Safety Regulations:

The City of Chicago Fire Department, in conjunction with the McCormick Place Convention Center, has very specific fire regulations/restrictions and permit requirements regarding display material within the Exhibit hall. These regulations are detailed in the General Contractor Section of the manual and include a 'Request for Fire Marshal Review Form'.

Floral/Plant Rental:

Organized Jungle, Inc. is the official florist. A service representative will be available on-site. Please click here for the Floral/Plant Rental form located with the Exhibitor Manual for information and prices.

Floor Manager:

A Floor Manager will be available to answer questions regarding Exhibits, assist in resolving on-site problems and is responsible for enforcing the rules and regulations of the Show. The Floor Manager’s desk is located at the rear of the Exhibit Hall.

Glass Display Case Rental:

GES is the official display case provider for the Chicago Comic & Entertainment Expo, offering a variety of display options. A service representative will be available on-site. Please refer to the Official Contractor section of the Exhibitor Manual for information and order forms – located in the Decorating Services section.

Hotel/Travel Discounts:

Call the Chicago Comic & Entertainment Expo Travel Desk at 800-388-8002 or visit Hotels & Travel section at our website at www.C2E2.com for discounted rates on hotel and airline.

International Shipping:

TWI Group Inc, is the official provider of international shipping, customs brokerage, freight forwarding and related services for the Show. All merchandise imported into the United States requires Custom House Clearance prior to release from any USA port or airport. It is the sole responsibility of the Exhibitor to adhere to customs and international guidelines. The Exhibitor must insure that all documents are valid and complete and procedures are followed correctly. Show management will not be held liable for freight held up due to customs issues, duty payments or any other problems related to inbound and outbound international shipments. Click here for the section of the Exhibitor Manual for information and order forms.

Labor Regulations:

The City of Chicago has several major unions that have jurisdiction over trade Shows. Please plan now to abide by labor regulations. GES is the official labor contractor. Labor arrangements may be made to set-up, service and dismantle your Exhibit. Information regarding labor jurisdiction can be found in the General Contractor section of the Exhibitor Manual. If you have any further questions or would like a quote for labor services, you may contact GES directly at 702-515-5970 or through www.ges/chat.

Exhibitors using contractors other than GES for labor and/or supervision must return the EXHIBITOR DESIGNATED CONTRACTOR form to Show Management and GES prior to March 26, 2012. NO EXCEPTIONS CAN BE MADE AFTER THIS DATE.

Click here for Show Management EAC forms and information.

Click here for the GES EAC forms and information located on page L-3.

Liability and Insurance:

Exhibitors are advised to see that their regular company insurance includes coverage outside of company premises and that they have their own theft, public liability and property damage insurance. Show Management and its contractors will not be responsible for injury or damage that may occur to an Exhibitor or his/her employees or agents, nor to the safety of any Exhibit or other property against theft, fire, accident, or any other destructive causes. Please review the Application & License Agreement for Exhibition Participation for details.

License Agreement:

Please be sure you have read the Application & License Agreement for Exhibition Participation for your booth for all Exhibition rules and regulations. It is the Exhibitor’s responsibility to adhere to all rules pertaining to your license agreement.

Material Handling (Drayage) Services:

GES is the exclusive material handling provider on the Exhibit floor. They will receive all shipments whether consigned in advance to their warehouse or sent directly to McCormick Place. Material Handling includes return of your empty cartons and crates at the close of the Show. Click here for the General Contractor section of the Exhibitor Manual for information and order forms – located in the Material Handling section.

Meetings In Your Booth:

If you plan to use your booth to conduct meetings before or after official Show hours, you must fax the following information to Skip Haile at 203-840-9912 or email shaile@reedexpo.com no later than March 26, 2012.

1. A letter requesting early access to the Show floor for non-Exhibitor personnel. Please state the Exhibiting company and booth number.
2. List the non-Exhibitor personnel and type of badge they will be wearing.
3. State the time and date of the meeting (meetings cannot be scheduled prior to the Show opening on Friday, April 13, 2012).
4. State the name of the Exhibitor who will meet the non-Exhibitor personnel at the entrance to the Show and escort them directly to the booth.

Access to the floor during non-Show hours will be denied unless Show Management receives this written request in advance. Show Management reserves the right to have the Exhibitor hire security personnel for any event held on the Show floor during non-Show hours.

PLEASE NOTE: All booth personnel must have a badge to enter the Exhibit hall. Please send your have your guests to register themselves as Attendees either online or on-site and use the Online Exhibitor Badge link in the Exhibitor Badges section of the Exhibitor Manual to register your booth personnel.

Parking:

McCormick Place has 3 parking garages and prices:

• Lot A – Covered Parking $26.25/day– Click her for Directions
• Lot B – Open Surface $14/day – Click her for Directions
• Lot C  - Covered Parking $26.25/day – Click her for Directions

For additional details on parking please click here.

There is no overnight parking allowed at McCormick Place Complex. McCormick Place offers an Exhibitor parking pass for in and out access at $21 a day, you can purchase parking passes in advance at http://www.truticket.com/asuv/landing.htm . The Hyatt Regency McCormick Place Hotel which is connected to the convention center also has a parking garage on an hourly rate.

Parking Lots A and C are the closest to the North Exhibit Hall which you can see on the following map.

Photography:

Oscar Einzig is the official photographer. Click here for the Oscar Einzig order form and information.

Privately Owned Vehicles (POVs) / Self-Unloading:

“POVs” (personally owned vehicles) are defined as an SUV, Car or a truck no larger than a Ford Econoline. All box trucks regardless of length and vehicles with trailers are not consider POVs.
For unloading and loading information, please refer to the section above on Lend-A-Hand and ASUV for details.

Security:

Show Management will provide perimeter security personnel on the Exhibit floor on a 24 hour basis during the entire period of the Show (including installation and dismantle). Every reasonable effort will be made to prevent losses; however the final responsibility lies with the Exhibitor. If you have items in your booth that are vulnerable to theft, take them with you when you leave the building for the day. For larger items that cannot be moved, we recommend that you hire additional security for your booth. Armageddon Services is the Official Security Contractor. Click here for ordering Security Services section of the Exhibitor Services Manual.

Shipping:

All incoming shipping to the facility will be handled by GES (Global Experience Specialists) personnel. Click here for the General Contractor section of the Exhibitor Manual for information and order forms – located in the Material Handling  section.

• Advance warehouse shipments must be delivered between March 8 and April 5, 2012.
• Show site shipments must be delivered no earlier than Wednesday, April 11, 2012 after 1:00 PM and no later than Thursday, April 12, 2012 at 2:00 PM.

Show Office:

The Show Office is located in N231 on Level 2 of the North Building at McCormick Place. It will be staffed and operational during the following times:

• Wednesday, April 11 and Thursday, April 12, 2012 - 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Friday, April 13 - Saturday, April 14, 2012 - 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM
• Sunday, April 15, 2012 - 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Smoking:

McCormick Place provides a smoke-free environment. Outdoor locations have been designated to service visitors affected by the City Ordinance.

Sound Levels:

Sound levels of presentation and audio/video displays should be kept within the confines of the booth area and must not interfere with neighboring Exhibits. Show management will exercise their right to provide and maintain a fair Exhibiting environment to all customers.

Telephone Services / Internet Lines:

All telecommunication services including internet lines will be handled through Exhibitor and Technical Services (ETS) at McCormick Place. Click here for the Telephone/Internet order forms and information located within the Exhibitor Manual.

Vendor Invoices:

Show Management will have personnel on hand throughout the course of the Show to consult with Exhibitors regarding any bills received from service companies. If there is any question as to the charges made, please consult with our Show representatives before paying the bill. Do not wait until after the Show to settle problems that can be easily resolved at the Convention Center.

Exhibitor Checklist

PLEASE NOTE: Double-check the dates for these services by referring to the order forms in this manual. Show Management will not be held accountable for any misprints to any of the dates that are listed below. The responsibility lies with the exhibitor. Purchase orders are not accepted by any of the vendors.

Things To Do Or Order	Do Before This Date – Discounts May Apply	For Details & Order Form	Date Finished
Request to Use an Exhibitor Designated Contractor	March 26, 2012	Exhibitor Designated Contractors
Exhibitor Badges		Exhibitor Badges
Display Labor	March 21, 2012	General Contractor – GES
Hanging Sign	March 21, 2012	General Contractor – GES
Custom Signs	March 21, 2012	General Contractor – GES
Booth Carpet	March 21, 2012	General Contractor – GES
Furnishings	March 21, 2012	General Contractor – GES
Modular Rental Exhibits	March 21, 2012	General Contractor – GES
Furniture Package	March 21, 2012	General Contractor – GES
Electric / Plumbing	March 21, 2012	General Contractor – GES
Telephone / Internet	March 30, 2012	Facility/Utilities – ETS
Booth Cleaning	March 21, 2012	General Contractor – GES
Computer Rental	March 20, 2012	Official Contractor – NMR
Floral	Pending	Official Contractor- Organized Jungle
Meeting / Room Requests	March 26, 2012	Show Information (A-Z Guide)
Security	Pending	Official Contractor – Armageddon Services
Photography	March 30, 2012	Official Contractor - Oscar Einzig
Hostess/Models	March 30, 2012	Official Contractor – Judy Ven
Shipments to the Warehouse	March 8 – April 5, 2012 *see exact times	General Contractor – GES
Shipments Direct to Show	April 11 & 12, 2012 ONLY	General Contractor – GES

Show Management Contacts

Contact the Following at C2E2	Phone Number	Fax Number	E-Mail Address
General Show Inquiries, Exhibitor Badges,Customer Service
	800-354-4003	203-840-9635	inquiry@C2E2.com
Sales Questions/Advertising and Sponsorships
Larry Settembrini	203-840-5321	203-840-9321	Larry@ReedPOP.com
Mike Armstrong	203-840-5333	203-840-9333	Mike@ReedPOP.com
Mark Fitch	203-840-5518	203-840-9518	Mark@ReedPOP.com
Jenny Martin	203-840-5454	203-840-5454	Jenny@ReedPOP.com
Programming and Special Event Questions
Peter Tatara	203-840-5334	203-840-9334	Peter@ReedPOP.com
Kim Mueller	203-840-5925	203-840-9925	Kim@ReedPOP.com
Marykate Nagurney	203-840-5477	203-840-9477	MK@ReedPOP.com
Marketing and Website Questions
Brian Stephenson	203-840-5935	203-840-9935	BStephenson@ReedPOP.com
Jackie Williams	203-840-5494	203-840-9534	Jackie@ReedPOP.com
Public Relations
Roger Bilheimer	203-966-0792	203-966-0793	bilheim@aol.com
Operational and Logistics Questions
Michael Kisken	203-840-5853	203-840-9853	mkisken@reedexpo.com
Skip Haile	203-840-5912	203-840-9912	shaile@reedexpo.com
Exhibitor Designated Contractor Inquiries
Darren Lyons	203-840-5432	203-840-9432	dlyons@reedexpo.com
Attendee Lists
Nydia Acevedo	203-840-5302	203-840-9302	nacevedo@reedexpo.com
Exhibitor Service Specialist
Chris Kowalczik	203-840-5524	203-840-9524	ckowalczik@reedexpo.com

 

Exhibitor Savings - Chicago Labor Changed in 2011!!

Over the past 18 months, officials of the Chicago-area labor community, Service Contractors who work at McCormick Place and the Metropolitan Pier and Exposition Authority (MPEA) have announced several labor initiatives that change work rules for Exhibitors. The Unions have agreed to more flexible straight time hours and crew size requirements, much to the benefit of Exhibitors. These changes are expected to significantly lower your costs and provide greater flexibility when Exhibiting at McCormick Place.

All of the new work rules can be viewed here or in its entirety at www.mccormickplace.com and see Phase I and Phase 11 changes on front page of their website. We have highlighted them below as well:

All Booths

Standardized Straight Time, Overtime and Double Time Windows:
Beginning on August 1, 2010, McCormick Place will observe and require all contractors working within McCormick Place to bill in accordance with the new overtime windows defined in the legislation. This will offer more flexibility on start times as well as a much higher likelihood of completing a larger percentage of work on straight time.

These changes apply to all work provided to Exhibitors and by the following unions working in the convention facilities at McCormick Place:

• Electricians
• Plumbers
• Carpenters
• Decorators
• Riggers
• Teamsters

On Monday through Friday the window is form 6am to 10pm and work is straight time for first 8 consecutive hours and Overtime begins after 8 hours. On Monday through Friday Overtime applies from 10:01 PM to 11:59 PM and then double time starts at 12:00 AM to 5:59 AM. To confirm all rates and times, refer to the individual order forms for each service.

On Saturday work is over time for first 8 consecutive hours and double time starts after 8 hours.

All work on Sunday and Holidays is done on double time.

Expanded Exhibitor Rights:

Prior to the recent legislation, Exhibitors on MPEA premises were entitled to exercise certain labor-related rights during the run of a Show and were granted certain privileges as a condition of Exhibiting on MPEA property. The legislation expands these rights and privileges and contractors are expected to honor them as a condition of operating on MPEA premises.

Accordingly, effective August 1, 2010, both Show managers and Exhibitors will enjoy the following rights and privileges and contractors are required to acknowledge and abide by these new policies.

In-Booth Work

The legislation contains an expansive definition of the type of work that Show Managers and Exhibitors may now perform within their booths. The legislation also charges the Authority with the responsibility for ensuring that the exercise of these rights by Show Managers and Exhibitors is consistent with training and safety requirements. While this safety analysis is an ongoing component of the implementation process, the Authority is prepared to announce the following changes in the type of work that may be performed by Show Managers and Exhibitors: The "booth of 300 square feet or less" limitation no longer applies. Show Managers and Exhibitors may now perform work in a booth of any size.

Show Managers and Exhibitors may now perform work within their booths using their own ladders or hand tools, cordless tools, power tools and other tools designated by the Authority. In addition to the work currently performed, Show Managers and Exhibitors may also begin performing the following work within their booths:

Setting-up and dismantling Exhibits; Assembling and disassembling materials, machinery or equipment; Installing all signs, graphics, props, balloons, other decorative items and Show Manager or Exhibitor drapery, including the skirting of Show Manager or Exhibitor tables; Delivering, setting-up, plugging in, interconnecting and operating Show Manager or Exhibitor electrical equipment, computers, audio-visual devices and other equipment; and Skidding, positioning and re-skidding all Show Manager or Exhibitor material, machinery and equipment using non-motorized hand trucks and dollies. The use of Pallet jacks are not allowed at McCormick Place.

Automobile and Small Utility Vehicle Policy Automobile and Small Utility Vehicle Policy FAQ

As part of our ongoing efforts to create an exceptional Exhibitor experience, McCormick Place has worked with Show Managers and General Service Contractors to provide a consistently accessible location for Exhibitors to unload and load smaller materials and equipment used in their Exhibit booths. Following are answers to some frequently asked questions:

Q: What is Considered an "Automobile or Small Utility Vehicle"?
A: Typical vehicles that a family or small business may operate for transportation or light hauling including automobiles, pick-up trucks, mini-vans, full-size vans and sport utility vehicles. This does not include multiple axle vehicles, flatbed trucks, box vans or trailers.

Q: What can be unloaded or loaded from these vehicles?
A: Equipment, displays or other event related materials that can be fit into the vehicles and which can be transported by the owner or employee by hand or with the use of a fully manual cart or dolly.

Due to safety concerns and in order to maintain an organized orderly flow during load-in and load-out periods, Exhibitors and their employees are not allowed to use forklifts, pallet jacks, motorized dollies, or similar motorized or hydraulic equipment to load, unload, or transport materials on McCormick Place property.

Q: Who can unload the vehicle?
A. See above for ASUV and Lend-A-Hand services.

Q: How much time will I have to unload my vehicle?
A: The time allotted to individual vehicles may vary from Show to Show, but will be no more than 20 minutes.

Q: When will the areas be available to Exhibitors?
A: The times available will vary from Show to Show, but at minimum, they will be available for at least one full day of move-in and on the day that the Show breaks.

Green Initiatives

Chicago Comic & Entertainment Expo is committed to reduce, reuse and recycle approach to planning and producing our Shows. Recycling waste, trash and other paper products and using recycled products are just a few of the steps we have taken toward “green” tradeshow experience.

For example sending out this Service Manual in a web based format conserves over 150,000 pieces of paper previously used for the 3-ring binder format!

Here are a few examples of what you can do to help the environment:

• Reduce, Reuse, Recycle
• Sign your office up for a recycling Program: paper, plastic, cans, etc.
• Develop an online ordering system for your buyers.
• Reduce marketing on paper by opting for more electronic communication, email attendees after the Show.
• Design your booth display to last for 5 years or longer using natural fibers.
• Practice Green Purchasing where ever possible by specifying Environmentally Preferable Products (EPP). These products or services contain recycled content, minimize waste, conserve energy or water and reduce the amount of toxics disposed or consumed.
• Reduce packing material by utilizing recyclable materials and take advantage of convention center recycling options for packaging.
• Donate extra amenities or promotional products to local charities rather than shipping them back or tossing them in the trash.

Reed Exhibitions has implemented the following Programs and purchasing habits in an effort to reduce the amount of waste generated and encourage our clients and vendors to Reduce, Reuse and Recycle whenever possible.

• We have successfully implemented Express Badge on many Shows, allowing attendees to print their badge on demand at Show site. This process reduces the printing and mailing of unnecessary badges.
• Our offices are set up to recycle paper, plastic, cans.
• We design a Show look for a minimum of 3 year lifecycle and recycle graphics for the same period.
• We have reduced paper communications both internally and externally by opting for electronic communication.
• Producing an on-line Exhibitor manual reduces our paper consumption by over 150,000 sheets on this Show alone.
• Where ever possible we partner with local charities to provide donation opportunities for our Exhibitors as a way to “reuse” leftover products and merchandise, thus saving on packing materials and carbon emissions by not shipping home. A great way to “Reuse” material for a good cause.