E3 may move out of LA for 2013

E3 may not be in its regular home at the Los Angeles Convention Center in 2013. The LA Times reports that the Entertainment Software Association, which puts together the annual mega expo, may move the show next year due to concerns over access and floor space during the construction of the Farmers Field stadium.

"We need assurances on things like square footage, the quality of the space, the ease of loading and unloading equipment, signage throughout the convention center for marketing and sponsorships," said ESA president Michael Gallagher. "We love being in Los Angeles, but we also have a show to put on."

The LA Times cites E3 generates approximately $40 million for the city across hotels, restaurant and LA taxi cabs that need to use GPS to find anything in their own city. The last time E3 made a move in 2007 to Santa Monica, things didn't go well. Gallagher did not mention any alternative cities. The show has been in LA for 16 of its 18 years in existence.

ESA Statement:

"We are in negotiations to ensure E3 continues to be a best-in-class and invaluable experience for our members, exhibitors, and attendees. There are several areas that still need to be resolved and we need the city to fully appreciate the value E3 brings to Los Angeles. The video game industry is growing and reaching scores of millions of consumers around the world and the show is growing to reflect this energy and passion. We hope the city can recognize this fact and work with us to resolve areas of concern." – Rich Taylor, Sr. VP of Communications and Industry Affairs