b'MRCA MemberA First Timers Perspective as an MRCA Expo ExhibitorBy Matt Cullen, VP of Castagra Products, Inc.I ve done a lot of tradeshows during my 20 years as a sales executive, so I tend to notice the differences between shows really fast. This was my first time exhibiting at the Midwest Roofing Contractors Association Expo in Omaha, so I didnt know what to expect. I got in the night before to get settled and checked in. When I got to the show, the first thing I noticed was all the right companies and all the right sponsors were there. To me, seeing all the major players at the tradeshow tells me this is a critical roofing show for this region.Checkinginwaseasyand straightforward, and when I showed up at the booth, everything was there: clean, organized, and ready to go. Sounds obvious, but I cant tell you how many times this hasnt been the case. Something was missing or done wrong at too many shows. Iveseenmisspelledsignage, missing chairs or tables without skirts. Simple details, but totally necessary because these mistakes delay the set-up process and ruin the flow of the show. The show floor had about 80 vendors spread out with wide enough space in the aisles so attendees didnt feel cramped. The layout was well planned with key areas marked off and easy to find.Day one was steady with consistent traffic at the booth. I met some potential strategic partners, who Ill definitely follow up with. Day two was a bit slower, but thats common for a tradeshow because most eager participants race in to see whats new on the first day and dont return unless they have follow-up questions.The one thing that stood out for me was the friendly atmosphere; everyone was nice and appreciative. They showed they cared. They care about the the participants, sponsors, and exhibitors. Congratulations to the MRCA for a great show.www.mrca.orgMidwest Roofer 33'