NAFEM Dishes Advice for First-Time Showgoers

Buffy Levy, director of The NAFEM Show, highlights good-to-know details ahead of the Feb. 1-3 event.

January 12, 2023

Photo credit: Orange County Convention Center

With The NAFEM Show getting closer, the organizer hosted a webinar Thursday, Jan. 12, to share pointers with first-time attendees.

The show, scheduled for Feb. 1-3, will be held at the Orange County Convention Center. It will comprise 500-plus exhibitors showcasing roughly 800 products across a 314,000-square-foot space.

Here are some details to know, courtesy of show director Buffy Levy:

• The show is in the Orange County Convention Center’s North/South Building (pictured). While banners will help indicate the show’s exact location, Levy notes it’s also the more modern looking of the two convention center buildings, which are a “decent walk away from each other.” Aside from the kick-off party (taking place Tuesday, Jan. 31, at the Hilton), all show activities take place in the North/South Building. Those driving to the show also will want to be sure to park in the North/South lot; parking starts at $20.

Join Us for MUFES

Speaking of upcoming industry events, FER has one of its own: MUFES, taking place April 25-27, 2023, in Tucson, Ariz. Visit us at NAFEM Booth 469 to learn more, or click HERE to register now.

• Badges will not be mailed. Attendees are able to pick up their badges at five satellite locations—at the Orlando International Airport in Terminal B, near baggage carousel 24 and 29, and at the Hilton, Hyatt, Rosen Centre and Rosen Plaza hotels—in addition to at the Orange County Convention Center (Level 2, S220). Satellite area pickup is limited to certain times, but encouraged to help attendees avoid lines at the OCCC. Registration is not available at satellite locations, however. Speaking of badges, those belonging to members of CFESA, FCSI, FEDA and buying groups gain access to the show floor for training time, offered from 8-9 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 2, and Friday, Feb. 3. Operators looking to get training time access can request it by emailing info@thenafemshow.org.

• Coat and baggage check is complimentary. Visit Room S221 to store your personal items.

• The N+ app can keep you in the loop. The app, available now on Apple and Google, will offer details on the show’s presentations, exhibitors and the floor plan, plus local dining options and more.

• Recharge and refresh. Three lounges on the show floor offer attendees designated spots to relax, take a break, charge their devices and network. On the other hand, for those who want to refresh their headshot, an area near @CenterStage (where presentations occur) allows you to do just that.

• Shuttle service is available. Those staying at the show’s official hotels—except three within walking distance (Hyatt, Hilton and Rosen Centre)—can take advantage of complimentary shuttles starting on Tuesday, Jan. 31. Shuttles run every 10 minutes during peak hours (from 6:30-10:30 a.m. and 1-5:30 p.m.) and every 20 minutes from 10:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Taxis and rideshare options also are plentiful in the area.

Still have questions? Answers to FAQs and additional details can be found at thenafemshow.org.