At an evening reception, someone was laughing in disbelief when viewing a picture on a phone. It was the store front for Zanzibar's Tavern, a gentleman's club. I too laughed at the customized message on the sign "Welcome Association Execs" (see picture below). In fact most people said, "NO WAY!" While I too said "No way," I applauded the club's clever messaging and targeted marketing. I had to see it for myself.
The sign was customized just for us–the 4,500 or so professionals in associations and related fields as part of the ASAE & The Center for Association Leadership annual conference in Toronto, Canada.
The next day I found myself on Yonge Street snapping pictures of Zanzibar's. It is a local landmark and serves as the backdrop in many Hollywood movies. I then spoke to Allen, the general manager, for a few minutes by telephone. Allen shared he customizes the signage for just about every conference and major event that comes to Toronto. According to Allen, he does "see at least a little increase in foot traffic."
