The International Sleep Products Association (ISPA) reports that ISPA EXPO 2018, held March 14-16 in Charlotte, NC, was one of its largest and most successful shows to date. The expo welcomed more than 4300 attendees and 264 exhibiting companies covering over 137,000 square feet of show floor space.
“I think our numbers reflect the enthusiasm and optimism that’s been building throughout the mattress industry,” says Ryan Trainer, ISPA president. “Our exhibitors and ISPA staff worked hard to make sure this EXPO exceeded expectations following a record-breaking show in 2016 by providing something for everyone.”
Attendees saw the latest in machinery, components, services and technology, while also participating in networking events, receptions and educational sessions on topics ranging from digital persuasion, the latest updates from the Consumer Product Safety Commission, to learning about ISPA’s new data initiative, and how to stay competitive in the ever-evolving manufacturing landscape.
On Friday, March 16, during the Industry Breakfast, Johnny “Cupcakes” Earl, founder and CEO of Johnny Cupcakes, entrepreneur and branding expert, shared his recipe for success in branding and viral marketing, while offering practical advice on the importance of details, customer experience and brand loyalty.
“Being together and exploring the EXPO show floor was a great experience for our team as we looked to uncover new materials for future designs,” says Nick Bates, president of Spring Air International. “This show was the first time Spring Air was able to come together as an organization to see the latest in innovations, and we accomplished a lot. Our committee was made up of representatives from our domestic licensees, that will pave the way for our future product launches.”
“We were busy all three days at this show and sold a wide variety of our entire product line,” said Hank Little, president of Atlanta Attachment Co.
Attendees enjoyed the March 14 Welcome Reception—one of EXPO’s best networking venues—at the NASCAR Hall of Fame. It provided an opportunity to mingle with old friends and make new ones while experiencing all the interactive activities the venue had to offer.
The next ISPA EXPO will be held March 18-20, 2020 in New Orleans, LA.
