Industry Leaders Share Their Thoughts on the Newly Announced Show
We reached out to a few industry leaders to get their response to the new Light + Intelligent Building North America.
Manufacturers:
“This is exciting. Lighting now intersects with energy performance, occupant wellness, and operational outcomes, aligning perfectly with Amerlux’s commitment to providing high-performance lighting solutions that seamlessly integrate with building automation systems. We look forward to collaborating with industry leaders and shaping the future of building technology. Now that we (Amerlux) are part of Delta Intelligent Building Technologies, we are eager to join the discussion on how lighting design has evolved from mere illumination to a vital component in creating sustainable, efficient, and connected environments.” — Bill Plageman, Amerlux, VP of Marketing
“I’m keeping an open mind and look forward to learning more during the Zoom call that Messe Frankfurt is hosting tomorrow. I hope the relaunched event delivers on its promise of a fresh perspective and broader audiences, while creating meaningful opportunities for long-time supporters like A.L.P., who have exhibited since the show’s inception. The expansion into building technology may make sense strategically, but I hope it doesn’t pull focus too far from the core lighting industry. A more comprehensive show can certainly be valuable, as long as it continues to serve the lighting community in ways that make sense for both exhibitors and attendees.” — Lisa Yeadon, Director of Marketing Communications, A.L.P.
“I read the news, and I have to say, it’s been a long time coming! I’m excited to see what’s next.” — Dawn Andersen, Director of Global Marketing, Luminii
Lighting Designers:
“This feels like the natural next step for LightFair’s legacy, evolving from a lighting fixture showcase into a broader conversation about systems. The integration of lighting, controls, and building technology has been building momentum, and it’s encouraging to see a show centered on encouraging interoperability instead of continuing silos. It’s also great to see integrators finally placed at the forefront, as their role has often been undervalued or overlooked in our industry. I’m looking forward to seeing how this event supports better collaboration within our industry.” — C. Webster Marsh, Sladen Feinstein Integrated Lighting and Lighting Controls Designer
“Well, Randy, as you know, I attended Light + Intelligent Building Middle East at the beginning of this year, and it was fabulous. I also liked what Messe-Frankfurt did with LightFair this year, and from what I read in your article, those are elements that they plan to keep. It seems like a challenging marketing job to pitch this as a whole new show with all the same ownership, but I, for one, am hopeful!” — Lisa Reed, Principal at Reed Burkett Lighting Design
“I am hopeful they [IES, IALD, and Messe Frankfurt] will lean in to make something new and exciting that the lighting industry and an expanded market will want to come to. They need to work hard to change the current mindset and make it worthwhile to attend.” — Kelly Roberts, Principal at Primary Arc Design
Representative:
“Messe is starting fresh—and that’s a positive step. The LightFair brand has lost some of its strength over time, and I hope Messe sets a rigorous standard for exhibitors. Quality brands shouldn’t have to compete with aisles of low-cost, off-shore products that weaken the show’s overall value. With growing competition from LEDucation and several strong regional shows, maintaining high standards is more important than ever. If Messe stays focused on quality and consistency, they can build an event truly worth attending.” — Melissa Deutsch Stein, Owner, Stan Deutsch Associates