Last Florida WoodworkingShow of the Millennium Pronounced A "Resounding Success"

Furniture World Magazine

They came to display their newest routers, table saws and computer programs . . . explore the latest advances in adhesives and wood coatings . . . seek out new customers . . . network with industry experts. Exhibitors and guests of the 4th biennial Florida Woodworking & Furniture Supply Show® had all sorts of personal goals for their visit-and few left disappointed. "Yes, it was an outstanding show," declared Keith Eidson, vice president of show producer Trade Shows, Inc. "I have heard so many positive comments from everyone involved. And we at Trade Shows are delighted-this was our final woodworking show of the millennium and it was a resounding success." The Florida Show took place December 3 & 4, 1999 at Orlando's Orange County Convention Center. It featured machinery, supplies and services for the furniture, cabinet, casegoods, millwork, industrial wood products, solid surfacing and plastics industries. Approximately 1000 exhibitor personnel were on hand to answer guests' questions and help them solve their manufacturing problems. Nearly 2800 guests traveled from 30 states as well as the countries of Taiwan, Germany, U.K., Venezuela, Brazil, Colombia, Panama, El Salvador, Jamaica, Bahamas, Puerto Rico, Mexico and Canada. Choices & Voices 2000-the show's slate of educational seminars and roundtable discussions-was very well received. Two seminars in particular drew larger-than-average crowds. Forty-four people attended Making The Right Choice: An Objective Comparison between Water- & Solvent-Based Wood Coatings, a seminar hosted by David Johnson, president of Florida Finishing Products. "I went over the latest EPA and OSHA regulations and then offered a side-by-side comparison of the two types of coatings," said Johnson. "There's been a lot of interest in this subject lately, as water-based coatings have evolved and gained credibility in the industry. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages, and my objective was to give people the facts and help them make an informed decision." Forty-three people attended Sheet Veneer Types & Face Cuts, a seminar hosted by Locke Wilde, National Sales Manager for Jacaranda, Inc., who spoke on behalf of Whittelsey Wood Products, Inc. His presentation was a "follow-up" on the topic he discussed at the 1997 Florida Show and attracted many of the same guests. "Two years ago I spoke on veneers in general," he explained. "This year I taught attendees how to specify the right veneer: the species name, plus the face cut, plus the figure. Just by upgrading your veneer you can boost your profits tremendously-it might raise the cost of your materials by 15% or so, but it can also up your selling price by 40 to 50%. And you can offer Mrs. Jones much more variety! It's a small change that can make a world of difference." Overall, the Florida Show proved to be a profitable experience for industry professionals on both sides of the exhibit booth. "We had a very successful experience and a nice flow of guests," said exhibitor Laura Coppinger of Air Products & Equipment. "It was a great show-we'll see you in 2001!" Exhibitor Matteo Fregosi of Salice America concurred: "Good attendance! We got a good deal of business and contacts." "This show is critical in maintaining the Florida wood industries," raved exhibitor Gary Subra of ML Campbell. "It takes a leadership role in technology, innovation and design." Attendees also expressed plenty of enthusiasm. "It was a nice show with lots of great people and quality participants and exhibits," declared Michael Middleton of FPIS, Inc. The next Florida Woodworking & Furniture Supply Show® will take place November 30 & December 1, 2001. For more information, contact Trade Shows, Inc., P.O. Box 2000, Claremont, NC 28610-2000; telephone (828) 459-9894; FAX (828) 459-1312; e-mail tsi@twave.net; website: www.tsiwoodworkingshows.com.