Joplin again has space to host trade shows and conventions

There was a big empty space in the Northpark Mall when Macy’s Joplin store joined the list of those that were closing in 2021.

Likewise, the closure of Joplin Convention and Trade Center in 2018 left Joplin without a place in the city to hold big events.

Now though, the Joplin Expo is filling the void left by Macy’s and the convention center.

Jeremy Morris, director of sales for Joplin Expo, says there will be shows nearly every week from now on.

The Joplin Home Show last weekend was put on by Joplin Expo, which will also hold the Spring Market in April and Holiday Market.

“Everything we do ourselves in free (admission),” says Morris.

In the meantime, Joplin Expo will host events for other companies and organizations.

Jason Williams, of Exponent Ventures, now owns 9.46 acres on the southeast corner of the Northpark Mall, including the former Macy’s building and parking lot.

The building boasts 40,000 square feet of space for trade shows and 10,000 square feet ballroom. There’s also 25,000 square feet of retail space, which will be filled by Unique Boutiques.

There are four entrances, including one inside the mall.

Morris says Joplin Expo is good for the mall, especially because there’s no concession stand yet in the expo center.