In response to the needs of its customers and their overall show experience, Hanley Wood Exhibitions (owner of StonExpo/Marmomacc Americas) has launched a new online networking tool. "Connect," which debuts for the Remodeling Show 2008, is Hanley Wood's solution to bringing together buyers and sellers that match each other's set criteria -- before, during and after the event.

The purpose of Connect is to ensure that exhibitors and attendees are linked with the right industry professionals at Hanley Wood trade events. Connect allows exhibitors and attendees to search for their counterparts based on criteria they set through their own online profile. They are then able to send E-mails and make appointments with those that match their criteria.

Hanley Wood launched a beta version of Connect for the International Roofing Expo in February. Exhibitor and attendee feedback was considered before launching an enhanced live version for the Remodeling Show, which takes place in September. StonExpo Connect launched officially in May, and it is already being used by exhibitors. Attendees were able to start using the tool after attendee registration opened in June. The product will be launched for the rest of the Hanley Wood events over the course of the next few months.

"We're very excited to launch this new tool for both our exhibitors and attendees," said Shawn Pierce, Vice President of Divisional Operations for Hanley Wood Exhibitions. "One of the big questions for exhibitors, when it comes to participating in trade shows, is how to measure ROI. Connect provides them with an early indication of the ROI they can expect at each of our events. Knowing ahead of time exactly who will be at the show -- and being able to communicate with that audience -- gives the exhibitors a huge advantage."

With the tool, exhibitors will be able to E-mail attendees as well as set appointments with them at the show. Connect also offers a wide range of online marketing opportunities, which exhibitors can purchase online through shopConnect, an online sales office, including Keywords, Product Category Placement, Seminar Track Placement, Videos, Show Specials, New Product Pavilion Enhancement, Online Registration Sponsorships and more. Connect is available to all attendees of Hanley Wood events at no cost. For more information, contact Hanley Wood Exhibitions at 888-352-2720 or 972-536-6430.