NAWLA Traders Market returns to Ghicago

7Tlnnoens Me,nxer will be returning I "home" to Chicaeo in 20 I2 after spending a year in Lis Vegas. It will be the sixth time the show is held in Chicago, giving it a familiar feel to many attendees. The 20 l2 Traders Market will be held November 7-9 at the Hyatt Regency Chicago.

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 supply chain. Unlike other shows, the exhibitors are almost always manufacturers of lumber and lumber-related products, not machinery or other equipment 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.

At time when many tradeshows are struggling, Traders Market continues to grow. Overall attendance in 2011 increased TlVo from 2010, with almost 1300 attendees from 10 countries. As in 20 10, the attendee profile was almost evenly split between wholesalers and manufacturers.

"We are proud that Traders Market has solidified its place as the tradeshow you can't afford to miss," says Gary Vitale, NAWLA c.e.o. and president. "The lumber industry may be struggling, but the companies who attend the show can help position themselves for success."

The 2012 show will follow the successful and popular format from the last couple of years. The floor show will be open on Thursday and Friday, allowing attendees to enjoy Chicago over the weekend or return home. Other recent additions, such as the Product Showcase, will also retum.

One big change this year is that NAWLA has added new membership categories that will also be able to attend the show. Of special note is that timberland owners and architects are now eligible to be associate members. Their presence at the show will increase the number of timber providers and product specifiers. Lumber mills who exhibit will benefit from having both their suppliers and end users attend.

"Traders Market has become one of the best values in the lumber industry," says Vitale. "In fact, the fees have remained the same since 2008, at a time when the cost of just about everything has gone up. We want the attendees to know the show is there to serve them."

The Traders Market websitewww.naw latradersmarket.comhas complete information on the schedule, fees, floor layout, hotel reservations, and sponsorships. Registration has already opened for exhibiting companies and individual attendees. Once again, registration will be exclusively online.