This ConExpo article was published in Construction Equipment Guide (CEG) in March 20, 1996, just prior to the show. This and other ConExpo articles to follow will be part of a continuing series that take a look back at ConExpos past through the reporting of CEG. We hope you enjoy these retros as much as we did searching for them deep in our archives.
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ConExpo-Con/AGG ’96 to be held March 20 to 26, 1996, in Las Vegas expects 25 percent of the approximately 100,000 show attendees to arrive from outside the United States. Billed as a World of Ideas, the show will draw attendees from more countries than any other exposition in the western hemisphere in 1996 for the construction, aggregates and ready mixed concrete industries.
“The show will definitely have a greater international flavor than either the 1993 ConExpo or the 1994 Con/AGG show in the past and that is a direct reflection of the growing global business community,” said Dennis Slater, exposition director.
This is the first time that ConExpo and Con/Agg will be combining efforts to produce one show.
“By attending ConExpo-Con/AGG ’96, international attendees will be exposed to companies and products that they might not have otherwise seen by attending either show separately. The show will provide a cost-effective opportunity for foreign buyers to purchase goods from not only U.S. manufacturers, but from other manufacturers and suppliers from every corner of the globe.”
Con-Expo/ConAGG ’96 is one of 22 U.S. trade shows selected by the U.S. Department of Commerce to participate in its Foreign Buyer program. In addition, it is the only construction-related show to have been selected to participate in this prestigious government-sponsored program.
The U.S. Department of Commerce recorded the highest number of organized foreign delegations attending any trade show at ConExpo in 1993. Organizers of ConExpo-Con/AGG ’96 expect an even greater international turnout.
As a result of the designation, ConExpo-Con/AGG ’96 will be promoted through U.S. embassies and consulates around the world, which will expedite registration for those wanting to attend the show. At the show, the U.S. Department of Commerce will assist show management in the operation of an International Business Center (IBC) to help match foreign buyers with exhibiting U.S. companies. Overseas attendees will also have the opportunity to register their buying interests or intentions to represent other manufacturers as a distributor through the IBC and the lists will be made available to U.S. exhibitors.
“The IBC is a tremendous benefit for foreign attendees because we want to make it as easy as possible to match prospective buyers and sellers,” said Peter Vlahos, director of sales and operations for ConExpo-Con/AGG ’96.
Participation in the Foreign Buyer Program also makes it easier and more convenient for international attendees to travel to the show. U.S. embassies in many countries have agreed to help organize delegations and assist interested buyers in making travel arrangements to attend the show.
While at the show, international attendees have the opportunity to participate in five educational seminars that will be simultaneously translated into German, French and Spanish. Attendees can also participate in 75 additional sessions covering over 50 different topics from technological advancements to management skills and personal development.
After the tradeshow floor closes, attendees can take advantage of the famous Las Vegas nightlife, which includes casinos, fine dining and shows by some of the biggest names in show business. Most of the hotels are also located near the world-famous “Sunset Strip.” Those wanting to take a break from the city and convention can drive or take a bus to a number of nearby attractions including the Grand Canyon, Hoover Dam, Death Valley and numerous golf courses.
“To further simplify registration, international attendees registering by phone will be able to speak their native language because ConExpo-Con/AGG ’96 registration is staffed with people fluent in several languages,” said Vlahos.
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