Here’s the scoop on the next TRAFFIC conference.
TRAFFIC is taking the show on the road again next month, traveling to Dublin, Ireland August 24-25. Domain Name Wire caught up with show organizer Rick Latona to get the scoop on the show.
DNW: Why did you pick Dublin as one of the locations for this year?
Latona: Many Internet companies are setting up their European headquarters in Ireland. There are excellent tax advantages as well as a very tech friendly infrastructure. English is also a great benefit for us American companies that are exploring business opportunities. Ireland is far less expensive than Britain and of course, it’s in the European Union. The beer is good too.
We go to Ireland often on business and wanted to show our American domainers who travel to the overseas shows and the main land Europeans the benefits of the environment.
DNW: At the Vancouver show you lowered prices but cut some of the extras. I understand the meals and parties are back for Dublin. What can people expect in terms of entertainment and food?
Latona: Domain Invest (.com, not to be confused with domaininvest.lu) is throwing a big dinner on the second night and Latona’s will be sponsoring the opening night cocktail. Dublin is a great place to let loose a little because the bars aren’t open so late that we’ll get into too much trouble!
DNW: The Dublin show is only 2 days, as opposed to 2 1/2 to three at previous conferences. Why the change?
Latona: We understand that many people have been going to a lot of shows and they want to focus on their businesses. So, we’ve jam packed the two days, cut the auction back to a single event and included parties on both days. It’ll be a tiring two days but it’ll be productive and to the point.
DNW: What new and different events or panels will people want to see at this TRAFFIC?
Latona: The Test Track is always good and our guests tell us often that it is their favorite part of the show. Sponsored by .CO the Test Track is the event where entrepreneurs can pitch their businesses to the panel of investors at the show. Please note that we still have room for applications if anyone is interested.
DNW: Looking forward, any updates/info about Hong Kong show?
Latona: The Hong Kong event isn’t until November and we’ll be posting updates about it soon enough. We want to focus on Dublin for now. That’s one thing that we’ve definitely learned this year. Focus on just one show at a time.
James says
Quote: “Ireland is far less expensive than Britain and of course, it’s in the European Union.”
Well, Britain is in the EU too – and I can assure you, Ireland is far more expensive than Britain. It may well be the most expensive place in the EU.
Allie says
Lol, who told you that about the bars?
Allie says
PS. I live in Dublin, and James is perfectly right about it being far more expensive than the UK. To make matters worse, the British shops like Marks & Spencer and Next all charge more here than across the water.