NeoCon Marks 44th Year June 11-13

Chicago, IL, Feb. 6, 2012 -- NeoCon, North America’s largest contract furnishings trade show, returns June 11-13 to Chicago’s Merchandise Mart for its 44th year.

The show is expecting than 40,000 attendees and it will feature 120 CEU-accredited seminars, thousands of new products from more than 700 manufacturers, and a line-up of keynote speakers.

Keynote speakers include Richard M. Daley, former Mayor of Chicago, Primo Orpilla, principal of Studio O+A, Gary Lee, principal of Gary Lee Partners, and Ian Schrager of Ian Schrager Company.
Keynote programs are free to attend, open to trade professionals only, and merit 0.1 CEU credit.

Orpilla co-founded Studio O+A in 1991 with his partner (and wife) Verda Alexander because they recognized the need for a design firm in the Bay Area with the ability to respond to dynamic changes in the local tech-based economy.

Lee, an interior design visionary, has earned accolades that include the prestigious Interiors Designer of the Year and membership in the highly selective Interior Design Hall of Fame.

Schrager, creator of the boutique hotel concept, has achieved international recognition for concepts that have revolutionized both the entertainment and hospitality industries.

NeoCon will also offer a full day workshop that will provide a comprehensive overview of LEED, and is designed to prepare individuals to pass the introductory LEED credentialing exam, LEED Green Associate. \

The workshop will be presented on Sunday, June 10 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Products will span a wide range of categories including: architectural products, artwork and accessories, building products and services, fabric, floor coverings, furnishings, kitchen and bath, lighting, outdoor furniture, stone and tile, sustainable design products, technology, textiles and wall coverings.