BEA Rebrands Consumer Day as BookCon

Posted on January 22, 2014

Publisher's Weekly reports that BookExpo America is rebranding its Consumer Day to attract more readers. BEA is a trade show, but has one day that is for the public. Consumer Day didn't draw a big enough crowd last year, so Reed Elsevier is rebranding May 31, 2014, as BookCon which is a much better name than Consumer Day.

BookCon will be packed with reader-focused events, such as book giveaways, autograph signings and author talks. BEA told PW that the show is becoming more consumer-oriented each year and research has shown that getting readers involved in the show really helps with the core values of the show, which is launching new titles and authors.

The first three days of BEA will be the same as usual and will have events for booksellers. BookCon happens on day 4, which is Saturday. Hall 3E in the Javits Center will be devoted on BookCon. Events will take place in meeting rooms in the Javits Center and in the Special Events Hall. Trade attendees are welcome at BookCon, they just need to show their badges to get in. Exhibitors can buy a smaller, extra booth just for BookCon for $1,000.