Chicago locks in 2 major trade shows at McCormick

Two major trade shows have extended their commitments to Chicago’s mammoth McCormick Place.

City officials announced Monday that the National Restaurant Association has signed a multiyear agreement that will keep its show at McCormick Place through 2021. They also announced that the International Manufacturing Technology Show has renewed its commitment for 2018 and 2020.

Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel’s office hailed the agreements and noted that two critical union deals involving McCormick Place have been made since the mayor took office.

Restaurant association president Dawn Sweeney says the labor reforms made the agreement possible.

City officials estimate the trade shows multiyear commitments will bring an additional $1 billion to the area economy.