NAWLA Traders Market moving to Las Vegas

1|-'loutxc oFF lrs fifteenth successful \-zvear. the NAWLA Traders Market is shaking things up and moving to Las Vegas this year. It will be the first time the show is held in a city other than Chicago or Dallas. The 2011 show is slated for Oct. 19-21 at the Mirage Resort & Casino.

Since 1996, Traders Market has held a unique position among lumber and building material tradeshows since it is the only one that is focused almost exclusively on the lumber sup- ply chain. Unlike other shows, the exhibitors are almost always manufacturers of lumber and lumber-related products, not machinery or other equipment providers.

Last year, the show hosted 240 exhibiting companies and 1200 individual attendees, representing a total of 500 companies. These companies comprise all aspects of the supply chain: manufacturers. wholesaler-distributors, and service providers.

This focus on supply chain partners has fostered an unrivaled atmosphere for networking. In today's global marketplace, Traders Market provides a chance to meet current and prospective clients face to face. In an industry where million dollar deals are still made with a handshake, that personal networking is invaluable.

Last year's show in Chicago created considerable buzz. Attendance increased more than 37o over 2OO9. The general feeling was that the economy had finally started to turn. NAWLA has indicated it wants to build on this momentum, while increasing the value for its members and attendees.

"Each year, we survey the attendees and make changes and improvements to the show based on their feedback," says Gary Vitale, NAWLA president and c.e.o. "Last year, we changed the floor hours, increased networking time, and boosted sponsor visibility. This year, we want to consolidate our position as the premier tradeshow for the lumber supply chain."

While many of the final details of the show are still in development at this time (such as speakers), the schedule and related events have been finalized. Like last year, the floor show will be open on Thursday and Friday, giving attendees a chance to return home or to stay and enjoy Las Vegas for the weekend. Other new additions to the 2010 show, such as the Product Showcase, will also return for the 201I show.

Since the show will be on the famous Las Vegas Strip, NAWLA is planning to add some special Vegas flair to the traditional Traders Market networking and business opportunities. For example, show attendees will have the chance to get special discounts for Las Vegas area golf courses, providing an additional venue to conduct business. Networking receptions will take advantage of special areas at the Mirage offering a "Vegas flair," such as Siegfried & Roy's Secret Garden and Dolphin Habitat.

NAWLA Traders Market, the premier trade show for lumber wholesalers and manufacturers, moves this fall to Las Vegas, Nv.

"Our goal is to provide a great networking opportunity while recognizing that Las Vegas is a one-of-a-kind location," says Vitale. "The entertainment options in Las Vegas are limitless. After the last couple of years, the industry could use having a little fun while also getting much needed work and sales done.

"We've also recognized the global supply chain is just that: global. As the domestic market has continued to shrink, the global market is growing. We want those companies to be a part of the show also."

Over the last two years, NAWLA has rapidly expanded its panicipation in global issues. The 2010 Traders Market included companies from nine different countries. This year, NAWLA is working with other organizations, such as the Softwood Export Council, and the American Hardwood Export Council to connect overseas buyers and sellers. In March 201 I, NAWLA visited with some of the largest lumber companies in China to talk about attending the show, and the feedback has been very positive.

The Traders Market website-www.nawlatradersmarket.com-has complete information on the schedule, fees, floor layout, hotel reservations, and sponsorships. Registration has already opened for exhibiting companies and individual attendees. For the first time, registration will be exclusively online.

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