AGG1 a success!

The just-concluded 2009 World of Asphalt Show & Conference and co-located AGG1 Aggregates Forum & Expo were an unqualified success, posting strong attendance numbers despite a down economy and travel restrictions by many companies. The shows were held March 9-12, 2009 at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida. With final registration numbers of 5,800, including 16 percent international, the co-location meant a big attendance boost for World of Asphalt, which had attracted about 3,650 to its last show, held in 2007. And, it provided a very strong start for the inaugural AGG1.

“The comments we heard from attendees were very positive, that the trade show floor was where they needed to be to keep in touch with what’s happening in their industry segments,” noted Show Director Sara Truesdale Mooney. “We’re very gratified by the response and recognition of our shows, and exhibitions in general, as a quality environment for networking and commerce.”

Attendees came from more than 60 countries besides the United States, including all major world regions. Official delegations came from China, India, Mongolia and Russia. Nearly 70 percent of attendees hold key management roles in their companies. Nearly 400 exhibitors took 85,900 net sq. ft. of exhibit space at the shows to showcase their latest technology and products.

“The aggregates and asphalt industries are integral to each other, so the co-location of AGG1 and World of Asphalt gave attendees access to the whole spectrum of products and services ‘from rock to road,’ as we like to say,” stated Rick Feltes of Lafarge North America and NSSGA’s AGG1 Management Committee Chairman. -- Mark Kuhar