All systems go for PACK EXPO

PACK EXPO gets off to a strong start as exhibitors report positive experiences with exhibition setups, and PMMI is reporting a last-minute boost in registrations. “We’re standing tall,” says Matt Croson, PMMI vp of member services. “We are pleased to see pre-registration hitting 21,000, matching PACK EXPO 2007. This will be the second-largest PACK EXPO Las Vegas, ever.”

Croson says that with a last-minute boost in registrations, PACK EXPO Las Vegas is bucking a trend of lower attendance at many manufacturing tradeshows during these recessionary times. While PMMI has maintained a strong marketing investment in promoting the show, Croson says it is the innovative equipment and materials that exhibitors are bringing into the marketplace that is really attracting attendees.

Early Sunday afternoon, many of the exhibition setups were either complete or near completion. “Execution is easier than it’s ever been,” remarks Christie Taraborelli, marketing coordinator for WeighPack Systems Inc., Booth C-3023. She credits several factors to the smooth setup including the company’s familiarity with the venue and a high level of professionalism overall. “Scheduling was very good,” she adds. “Everyone was there when they said they’ll be there.”

Andy Monroe, sales and marketing manager of Fowler Products, a division of Pro Mach, Booth C-414, agrees. “We’ve been delayed in previous years in getting high voltage and air,” he comments. “That was much improved this year.”

Janet Caspers, marketing manager for Kliklok-Woodman, Booth C-1400, opined that people understand current economic conditions disencourages people from cutting corners and this resulted in a much smoother process.

She also credits Kliklok-Woodman’s strong preparation.  “I send someone on Sunday,” she states. “They’re there when the workers lay the power.”

Advances in machine technology to enable easy setup at customer sites also have translated in easier setups at tradeshow.

Remarking on the TJ500 equipment setup in his company’s booth, Scott Bruckerhoff of Diagraph, a division of ITW, Booth C-1217, states,“This was the easiest tradeshow setup in Diagraph’s over 100-year printing history. We plugged it in, and we’re ready for the show.”