21st annual International Boatbuilders´ Exhibition and Conference (IBEX) show at the Kentucky Exposition Center, USA, becomes more than 100,000 square feet larger, offering more exhibitors and education after a successful inaugural show in Louisville last year with attendance up 13 percent.

This year’s IBEX show  will see a stronger footprint with exhibit space with an eight percent jump over 2010 (103,900 vs. 95,700); exhibitor registration up 2.3% to 556; and at least 60 first-time exhibitors to date. In addition, the Composites Pavilion and Compliance Standards and Education Pavilion are sold out, with only a few open booths available to exhibit in the 2011 show.

IBEX 2011 will also host the marine industry’s most expansive trade seminar series with the largest selection of course material in the show’s 21-year history, and there are several new additions catering to every marine industry stakeholders’ needs.

“The increase in floor space and exhibitor participation is encouraging and reaffirms our decision to move the show to Louisville – a more centralized, cost-effective location. We’re committed to ensuring the growth of IBEX so it remains the must-attend event for the boating industry,” said Thom Dammrich, president of the National Marine Manufacturers Association, show co-producer. “With more educational offerings than ever before and the IBEX scope expanding with more specialty events and courses, there truly is no other marine trade event that gives the entire industry an opportunity to conduct a year’s worth of business in just three days.”

During the annual three-day event, more than 100 industry authorities will conduct 91 different educational seminars, a 30 percent increase compared to 2010. The show’s renowned Technical Series returns, and the Management, Services and Operations Series is expanding with four new course programs, making IBEX 2011 significant for anyone who has their hand in the industry – builders, designers, dealers, boat yards, and other service providers.

IBEX 2011 is also hosting a variety of new events, courses and special sessions including the new Green Marine Route and NMEA 2000® ConnectFest, plus returning favorites including the annual Industry Breakfast, the IBEX Aftermarket Pavilion, Dr. Shrink’s daily shrink wrap lessons, outdoor demonstrations, free workshops and more.