Ontario-based wholesaler Bardon Supplies is running out of places to hold its regional trade show. On Aug. 29 the Ambassador Hotel in Kingston, Ont. was full to the bursting point with 96 exhibitors representing over 100 manufacturers and in excess of 400 contractors. The show has doubled in size since the 2005 event as a result of adding plumbing to what has traditionally been an HVAC event. Most of our customers do both, remarked sales and marketing manager Dave Anderson. However, the sudden growth found exhibitors packed into every nook and cranny split between three exhibit areas. As well, there were three large operating exhibits outside. Its gotten to the point where we really need one location with everything under one roof, said Anderson. While other potential exhibit halls existed in Kingston, none were air-conditioned. Fortunately, that should change by the time the 2009 event comes. A new four-rink recreation centre and a downtown entertainment centre, both currently under construction, offer better options for the next event. Anderson reports good feedback from both contractors and suppliers. It was a selling show and trade was brisk. Asked whether the trend to larger wholesaler shows is likely to hurt the established regional and national trade shows, Anderson noted that Bardon, as well as other wholesalers, hold their shows in off years from the major events to avoid a conflict. We think its an opportune time to do these because the trade doesnt have a regional place to get together (in off years).
