From increased attendance and a growing number of exhibits to more in-depth seminars and special events, Expo Seguridad surpassed all expectations. Held April 26-28, 2006 at Centro Banamex in Mexico City, ESM 2006 brought together security products manufacturers, distributors and equipment end users, security solutions and the newest and most innovative technology.
This year’s convention included 172 exhibitors and over 4,143 attendees. Expo Seguridad Mexico also proved to be an event with international appeal as evidenced by attendance from multiple countries, including many in Central America and the Caribbean such as Guatemala, Costa Rica, Honduras, and Dominican Republic.
The theme of this year’s convention was “Convergence, Where IT and the Security Sector Meet.” Exhibitors showcased their cutting edge “IT-centric” Security solutions including IP based Intrusion, access control, CCTV, GPS, fire intrusion systems, RFID, and software Integration platforms at a display in a pavilion sponsored by Anixter Mexico in the middle of the exhibition hall. It also covered authentication technologies such as smart cards, smart chips, access cards, USB tokens, one-time password tokens and biometric technologies.
In addition to the exhibits and pavilion, ALAS offered a number of certification classes which included CCTV, intrusion and fire, as well as more than 50 educational conferences about the electronic security industry.
“Expo Seguridad Mexico is important because it allows us to provide in-depth training and networking," said Andrea Ferrando, the show’s sales & marketing director. “I know that attendees left here armed with knowledge on how to utilize new technologies and work more resourcefully in their businesses.”
A panel of top U.S. central station executives from the Central Station Alarm Association (CSAA) addressed future trends for central stations in Latin America. The CSAA panel discussed “The Central Station and Alarm Industry in the U.S. Today and its Relationship to the Latin American Alarm Industry: A Unique Perspective on Legal, Operational and Future Trends.” Inalarm, one of the largest distributors in Mexico, sponsored the simultaneous translations for this session.
Moderated by CSAA Executive Director Steve Doyle, the panel included presentations from industry experts including John Murphy of Vector Security, Thom Helisek of Vector Security, Lou Fiore of L.T. Fiore, Inc., Bob Bonifas of Alarm Detection Systems, Inc. and Ben Dickens Esq. of Blooston, Mordofsky, Dickens Duffy and Prendergast.
With Mexico boasting the largest electronic security market in Latin America, exhibitors took advantage of the venue to capitalize on the exciting opportunities. While many of the larger manufacturers have been in the Mexican market for years, this was the first time for others including Tappan Wire & Cable.
“I wasn’t sure what to expect,” said Cindy Burgoyne, manager of international sales & new business development for Tappan Wire & Cable. “The convention drew important decision makers in the public and private sectors and generated tremendous leads and referrals for us – more than we have ever received from some shows back in the U.S.
“I was also surprised at how safe it was getting to and from the convention and how warm the Mexican people were.”
“For the past three years we have delivered the best ROI event to our exhibitors and attendees,” added Ferrando. “It’s never too late for companies to get in the market. We have an extensive network of contacts and can introduce exhibitors to key local players. We even offer exhibitor packages that include a bilingual host.”
Close proximity to the United States and almost non-existent trade barriers are just two reasons why the security industry in Mexico offers great potential for companies seeking new markets for growth. Most manufacturers selling in Mexico are experiencing double-digit growth. Mexican imports for intrusion, access control, CCTV, EAS, trace detection and fire systems are estimated to exceed US $250 million in 2006.
"Expo Seguridad is the show I look forward to all year, excellent venue, professional staff, terrific attendance of qualified prospects and clients, and outstanding seminars with leading industry professionals a world class event with a local feel," said Mark NeSmith, director of international sales Asia Pacific & Latin America for DSC.
Humberto De la Vega, director of sales HID Global for Latin America & the Caribbean, agreed. “This is our fourth time at Expo Seguridad Mexico. We exhibit in Mexico City for three reasons: to maintain our presence and confirm our commitment to the Mexican market; second, to broadcast the use of our technology; and finally, to keep informing customers, partners, industry leaders, dealers and system integrators about our new product developments and innovations. Definitely, Expo Seguridad Mexico is the most important and professional forum for the electronics security market in the country”
Now in its fourth year, Expo Seguridad Mexico 2006 is organized by Giprex, endorsed by ALAS (Latin American Security Association), CABA, CANASA, CSAA, Smart Card Alliance Association, SIA and several local associations. It is also sponsored by four prominent security distributors in Mexico.
Exhibitors at Expo Seguridad Mexico 2006 included Tour Andover Controls, Bosch, DSC, GE Security, Honeywell, HID, Indala, Infinova, Johnson Controls, Lenel, Panasonic, Pelco, Rainbow, RCI, Samsung, Scan Source, Tamron, Vicon, and many more.
Next year’s show will be held April 25-27, 2007. For further information on exhibiting or attending Expo Seguridad, contact Andrea Ferrando at 786 276 7128 or by email at [email protected]
