IAADFS has announced that the Summit of the Americas will move from Orlando to Palm Beach, Florida in 2021.

The Summit will utilise the Palm Beach County Convention Centre with its adjoining headquarters hotel and several hotels within walking distance of the convention centre.

Michael Payne, President and CEO, IAADFS said: “This decision reflects the feedback and thoughtful input we have received from our members, exhibitors and supplier partners to consider after many years in Orlando a venue more convenient to the Miami area.

“Its proximity to Miami and Miami International Airport will make it more convenient for many attendees. The modern high-speed train operating from Miami to Palm Beach adds even more of a convenience factor and the station is blocks from the convention center.

“The whole arrangement is more intimate and provides an opportunity for the industry to have the closeness it desires, but with a wide variety of activities and dining experiences from which to choose. It also provides the chance to be more price competitive for participants.”

‘A GREAT FIT’

Payne, who revealed IAADFS examined the possibility of moving to Palm Beach a few years ago, but decided against this as it ‘lacked a true headquarters hotel’, added: “In addition, the city is going through a major renaissance downtown with expanded shopping and fine dining options, as well as reasonable and varied price points for hotels, all conveniently located together.

“It is a great fit for the Summit and the convention centre is a first-class venue. We are excited about this change and the possibilities it provides.”

More details will be provided in the coming months as IAADFA works to enhance the Summit of the Americas, constantly respond to the changing nature of the duty free and travel retail industry and meet the expectations of attendees.

Meanwhile, IAADFS  has reported a ‘tremendous’ response to the upcoming Summit of the Americas with 80% of exhibition space already requested and additional requests for space continuing to come in.

The Executive Conference Sessions are also being finalised and the speakers and programme will be announced soon.