ICSC to stress coaching during RECon in Vegas

NEW YORK - The struggling commercial real estate economy is taking its toll on registration for RECon, the International Council of Shopping Centers’ massive retail real estate convention set for May 17-21 in Las Vegas.

Erin Hershkowitz, ICSC senior media relations specialist, said registration was down 10% to 15% as of mid-April, but she was quick to add that the decline is relative when you consider past attendance.

“2007 and 2008 were our record-breaking years. We knew that this year would be a little slower because those two years were so busy - and the down economy has affected our industry,” she said.

That doesn’t mean that fewer companies will be represented at the annual event, said Hershkowitz, only that they are sending less personnel. Exhibitor registration is on par with 2008, she said.

“Most of the companies who have come every year are coming, but they’ve decided to cut back on the staff that will fly out,” Hershkowitz said, adding that ICSC members have also asked that the trade show be closed early to allow participants to pack up their booths and get on the plane rather than paying for another hotel night.

“We’re hearing that people need to cut back as much as they can,” she said.

A Reconnect Pavilion will be the newest feature of RECon this year, providing recruiting, retraining and resources for attendees looking to start their own businesses or to advance their professional expertise.

The pavilion offers specialized training sessions, mentoring, educational sessions and professional development classes lead by industry professionals and professional career coaches. It will also feature networking, continuing education information and job coaching.

Additionally, the pavilion will contain a university row, where university representatives from undergraduate and graduate programs in real estate, business and retailing will be available to discuss their continuing education and degree programs.

“It’s our way to reinvest in our industry - by helping our members during this difficult time,” said Hershkowitz.

Founded in 1957, ICSC is a global trade association for the shopping center industry. Its more than 70,000 members in over 90 countries include shopping center owners, developers, managers, marketing specialists, investors, retailers and brokers, as well as academics and public officials.