The International Sleep Products Association (ISPA) reported that its biennial tradeshow ISPA EXPO 2010, held March 3-6, in Charlotte, NC, was a tremendous success. Showcasing 168 exhibitors from around the world, more than 3,100 attendees from 61 countries saw the very latest in machinery, components, supplies, services and technology in one convenient location. Attendance surpassed EXPO 2008 participation—an unexpected surprise in today’s difficult economy.
Attendee buying power was at a surprising high despite the challenges of a struggling economy. In fact, most exhibitors noted the strong traffic and turnout of serious buyers.
“I am very happy with how well ISPA EXPO went for us and we are excited about the new direction and leadership that ISPA is taking within the industry,” noted Ed Malechek, president of Carpenter Company. He added, “It was a great week to be in the bedding industry.”
"We are extremely pleased with the turnout and feedback from the industry," noted ISPA executive vice president Ryan Trainer. "Our final numbers confirmed what we heard from the majority of attendees -- that the array of products and services was excellent, and customers’ level of optimism is strong evidence that the mattress market is improving.”
“ISPA EXPO was an important opportunity to network with the mattress industry for sourcing, ideas and opportunities,” noted President of Park Place Corporation, Jimmy Orders. “The suppliers knocked themselves out to make this a worthwhile investment of time and money. Coming once every two years it is a must see show and this year was no exception. Charlotte was a great host city and everyone that I spoke with was very upbeat.”
EXPO attendees also praised the educational sessions which included topics ranging from mattress safety to industry statistics to “green” initiatives and creating an “experience” for mattress shoppers. Most of the sessions were held on the showroom floor, to allow attendees to have more time to spend with exhibitors.
Wednesday night during the ISPA EXPO Welcome Reception, the Insomniaczzz industry band performed their “one hit wonders” to a jam-packed ballroom. On Friday, illusionist Craig Karges kept everyone in awe during his highly entertaining performance at the Industry Breakfast.
For more information on ISPA EXPO 2012 scheduled for March 14-17, in Indianapolis, IN, visit the ISPA Website at www.sleepproducts.org and click “Events.” For a recap on the events during EXPO 2010, visit ISPA’s blog at http://bedpost.typepad.com .
Established in 1915, the International Sleep Products Association (ISPA) is dedicated to protecting and enhancing the growth, profitability and stature of the mattress industry. As the industry’s trade organization, ISPA represents nearly 650 mattress manufacturers and suppliers throughout the world.
ISPA provides a wide range of services that benefit its membership. These include exclusive industry surveys and statistics, advocacy support, educational offerings, the industry’s ISPA EXPO trade show, safety research through its Sleep Products Safety Council, consumer research and education through its Better Sleep Council, BedTimes and Sleep Savvy publications, the ISPAEarth™ Industry Sustainability Initiative, and more.
To learn more, visit www.sleepproducts.org or contact info@sleepproducts.org.