SMG, the world's largest convention center management firm, and Conferon Inc., the largest independent meeting planning company in the U.S., announced today that they have finalized a standardized national license agreement addendum, allowing SMG's convention centers and Conferon personnel to expedite negotiations and contract language for their mutual clients.

Aimed at simplifying the legal review needed to execute contracts for space, this partnership establishes a "Master License Agreement Addendum," which allows for all events to be confirmed with pre-approved terms incorporated into an addendum, which is then made part of the license agreement. As a result, both parties will be able to concentrate more on the business aspect of the deal rather than the legalese that traditionally is part of a convention center license agreement, according to a release from the companies.

"This agreement is aimed at forging a relationship that will encourage more bookings by Conferon clients at all of our facilities by simplifying the process of contracting with our convention centers," said Gregg Caren, vice president of operations and business development, SMG Convention Centers, Philadelphia.

SMG operates 98 percent of publicly owned exhibition space operated by private companies in North America, encompassing nearly 50 convention and exhibition facilities that host consumer shows, trade shows, conventions, corporate meetings, product launches and other special events.

"This partnership with SMG will offer a better starting point for our customers, saving them time and money by streamlining the contract process," said Dave Lutz, president, Conferon, Cleveland. "Our sales teams will be better able to focus on the business points of a deal rather than weeding through the legal jargon of lengthy and detailed contracts."