Frequently Asked Questions

Q.	How much does it cost to attend HOUSTEX? There is no cost to attend HOUSTEX when you register by Thursday, February 14. Beginning February 15 registration is $25. Exceptions include: You have a Guest Invitation from a HOUSTEX exhibitor You are an active SME member and present your membership card or membership number during registration You have an email, print ad, or other marketing promotion that offers free registration to the show.
Q.	Do I need to register in advance? No, you do not need to register in advance. Onsite registration is $25.
Q.	How do I register? Registration to attend HOUSTEX is available online
Q.	I registered but didn’t receive an email confirmation, what should I do? First, check your spam and junk email folders. Some email providers filter emails unless you have identified them as safe senders. You may also want to check with your IT department to see if your corporate spam filter has blocked it. If you are unable to locate your email confirmation, please call the HOUSTEX registration team at 877.779.3211 or 508.743.8559, Monday-Friday, 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. EST.
Q.	Can I register additional staff from my company? Yes, you can register additional staff two ways: During the registration process there is a Registration Review Web page where you can select the “Add Another Registration” button that appears below your registration details. You must provide a different email address and answer the demographic profile questions for each additional staff member you register. There is a link at the top of your email registration confirmation where you can register additional colleagues.
Q.	How can I modify/correct my name and/or contact information in my registration? In your registration confirmation email, click the link below “Manage My Registration.” This will take you to your Registration Resource Center. Click “My Account” to modify your contact information.
Q.	Is HOUSTEX open to the public? HOUSTEX is a business event. HOUSTEX is manufacturing’s new product showcase in the South that provides a stage for the most ingenious products and services, the one-of-a-kind manufacturing marvels that can change an industry. It’s where the very latest advanced technologies and services can be compared side-by-side and where revolutionary solutions to perplexing challenges can be solved.
Q.	What is included with my general registration to attend HOUSTEX? Your general registration to attend HOUSTEX includes admission to three days on the show floor where you will see manufacturing solutions that are transforming your industry. Registration also includes attendance to exciting special features like: Manufacturing solutions from industry leading exhibitors Keynote Speakers Panel Discussions New Product Presentations Learning Lounge Presentations Student Activities
Q.	Is there a dress code to attend HOUSTEX? There is no enforced dress code but most attendees dress business casual. We recommend wearing closed toe shoes due to the nature of equipment and activities that take place on the show floor.
Q.	Who is exhibiting at HOUSTEX? Interactive floorplan Alphabetic list of exhibitors
Q.	I need an invitation letter in order to obtain a visa to enter the United States to attend HOUSTEX. How do I obtain this? After you have registered, visit the Registration Resource Center and select “My Account” and then selecting “Visa” (last button on the left side link navigation). The Registration Resource Center webpage appears upon completing your registration. You can also access your Registration Resource Center by clicking the link under “Manage My Registration” in your registration confirmation email.
Q.	Are cameras allowed on the show floor? No videotape or other type of camera photography (including the use of a camera on a mobile phone, smart tablet, and the like) is allowed in the exposition area except by those belonging to news media or technical press that have been approved in advance by HOUSTEX Public Relations staff.
Q.	Are there discounts for hotel accommodations available? Hotel Accommodations
Q.	Where is HOUSTEX and what are the show dates and hours? Show Dates, Hours and Location
Q.	How do I get to HOUSTEX? Travel and Visitor Information
Q.	Where is the best place to park at HOUSTEX? Parking Information
Q.	When will I receive my badge to attend HOUSTEX? Badges are not mailed prior to HOUSTEX. Print and bring your email confirmation with barcode to Express Registration to print your badge at the show.
Q.	Do you make special accommodations for disabled individuals? HOUSTEX is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities so they may fully participate. Please call SME Customer Service at 800.733.4763 or 313.425.3000 (Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m.-5:00 p.m. EST) at least two weeks prior to the event with your request(s). You can also call the Hilton Americas-Houston concierge desk (713.739.8000) and/or Belle Padilla at the George R. Brown Convention Center (800.427.4697 or 713.853.8001) to inquire about special parking.
Q.	What is there to do in Houston? Visit the Greater Houston Convention & Visitors Bureau website for a visitor guide, interactive map, coupons and discounts, and itinerary ideas. Houston serves up nationally recognized dining, shopping, entertainment, and nightlife with world-class attractions and events. You can also call the Hilton Americas-Houston (713.739.8000) and/or the George R. Brown Convention Center (800.427.4697 or 713.853.8000) to inquire about special parking.
Q.	Can I deduct my expenses to attend HOUSTEX from my taxes? An income tax deduction may be allowed for expenses incurred for education, including registration fees, travel, lodging, and meals, primarily for the purpose of maintaining or improving skills in employment or other trade or business pursuant to Treas. Reg. § 1.162-5. Contact your tax consultant for additional details.
Q.	Can I pass out information on my business to other attendees and exhibitors while I’m at HOUSTEX? Soliciting business at HOUSTEX, including but not limited to the show floor and special functions, by anyone other than a HOUSTEX exhibitor is prohibited. Distribution of advertising and promotional materials is limited to HOUSTEX exhibitors and partners and may only be distributed from the confines of the booth.