This year is all about moving forward and rebuilding what was lost during the recession, says Tracy Beaulieu, conference manager.
"The recession has pretty much bottomed out, or it will soon," she says, "so what we are looking for in 2011 is getting back to business. All of this year's educational offerings focus on providing people with the information needed to restore their business so they can regain dominance in the post-recessionary economy."
The Expo staff made a few changes to accommodate the new climate and are excited to bring these tools and opportunities to the industry.
Power Up
Last year, IPSPE introduced its Power Panel series, and thanks to an encouraging response, the panels continue this year with some new additions. Attendees can now choose to sit in on a retail, builder, service or hot tub Power Panel.
"Each year I meet with a conference advisory group made up of manufacturers, retailers and service companies, and we brainstorm," says Beaulieu. "There were several members of the hot tub community who said it would be really helpful to include more offerings for the hot tub segment.
"That industry has its own unique group of retailers, distributors and manufacturers. They have different challenges. So we said, 'Whatever you guys need, we're there for you!'"
The ultimate goal for the panels is to provide answers to the everyday questions facing attendees. And since each region in the United States has different challenges, Beaulieu has gathered experts from all areas in order to provide the best information.
"It's very important for this to be well-rounded and to be able to answer everybody's questions," adds Beaulieu. "A person in the northeast may build vinyl-liner pools, which is different than a Southerner or West Coast person who builds gunite pools."
Moving Forward
Last year proved to be pretty lean all around, but this year marks the return to the show floor of some huge industry players, says Beaulieu. IPSPE welcomes back Hayward, Zodiac, Paramount, Waterway Plastics, Caldera and Bullfrog. "This just goes to show things are picking up," she says.
Kim Rogers, marketing director, hopes attendees feel positive about the industry and confident that things are truly starting to turn around.
"We hope they walk away with all the tools they need to have a successful business, and to be able to do their jobs the best they can," Rogers says. "We have so many exhibitors who haven't exhibited in several years. I think that's a great sign that things are much more positive than they have been."
As always, don't be a stranger and be sure to stop by the AQUA booth to say hi. We look forward to seeing old and new faces and starting the new year on the right foot.
Comments or thoughts on this article? Please e-mail [email protected].
The International Pool Spa Patio Expo
Conference: Oct. 31 - Nov. 5
Exhibits: Nov. 3 - 5
Mandalay Bay Convention Center | Bayside Halls | Las Vegas
