There was some thought that traditional trade shows would disappear with the onset of the Internet. But the lure of seeing and touching products along with the ability to speak directly to the manufacturer continues to draw contractors, engineers and other industry personnel to trade shows in record numbers.
The latest evidence of that came at MCEE 2017 at Place Bonaventure in Montreal on April 26-27. By the time the doors closed, 6,286 industry members had passed through the show; and that number excludes exhibitors and students, reported Canadian Institute of Plumbing and Heating (CIPH) show manager Elizabeth McCullough. Exhibit space was sold out as well, with 393 exhibitors booking 65,000 square feet of space.
There were 23 educational seminars, with several sessions attracting more than 150 people.
Manufacturers were invited to display their newest and most innovative products in the New Product Showcase. A panel of industry experts judged the 120 finalists.
“MCEE continues to be a premier Canadian showcase for the plumbing, hydronic, HVACR, electrical and lighting industries,” commented CMMTQ Executive Director André Bergeron. “The variety of products and technologies is an outstanding demonstration of the industries’ commitment to innovation.”
“We are particularly happy to hear the great feedback about the quality of visitors”, stated Ralph Suppa, CIPH president and general manager. “Exhibitors were able to connect in person with decision-makers: contractors, engineers, building managers, wholesalers, government/municipal representatives and other key industry members who purchase or specify industry products.”
The next edition of MCEE will take place April 24 and 25, 2019 in Montreal.
MCEE is produced by the Corporation of Master Pipe Mechanics of Quebec (CMMTQ), the Canadian Institute of Plumbing & Heating (CIPH), Corporation of Master Electricians of Quebec (http://www.cmeq.org), and the Corporation des entreprises en traitement de l’air et du froid (CETAF), with support from EFC Quebec and IES Montreal.
For more information, please visit www.mcee.ca.