(Roseville, Minn. – May 28, 2007) – International visitor attendance is expected to be high at the IFAI Expo 2008, October 21-23, Charlotte, N.C. IFAI Expo 2008 has received the prestigious International Buyer’s Program (IBP) designation from the U.S. Department of Commerce, awarding IFAI Expo for the second time.

The International Buyer’s Program was created by the U.S. Department of Commerce to bring international delegations to U.S. tradeshows, benefiting U.S. companies and encouraging trade and business partnerships worldwide. The program promotes U.S. exports by bringing buyers to tradeshows with high export potential. According to the U.S. Department of Commerce, only 28 tradeshows are selected out of the hundreds that apply each year. After awarding the IBP designation to IFAI Expo 2008, the U.S. Department of Commerce begins worldwide promotion through its Commercial Service offices, U.S. embassies, and consulates internationally. Country and industry experts provide networking and matchmaking between prospective buyers, distributors and U.S. exhibitors at IFAI Expo 2008.

“We are very honored that IFAI Expo has received the IBP designation for a second time,” says Stephen Warner, president, IFAI. “This recognizes the excellent opportunities available through IFAI Expo 2008 to the world specialty fabric community. The IBP designation is a proven value in bringing in international buyers to our show.”

Keynote speakers

LOU HOLTZ
“Game Plan For Success”
Tuesday, Oct. 21, 8:30-9:30 am

DORIS KEARNS GOODWIN
“Leadership Lessons From Abraham Lincoln”
Thursday, Oct. 23, 8:30-9:30 am

IFAI Expo first received the IBP designation for the 2006 show held as part of the MEGATEX event in Atlanta. IFAI Expo 2006 welcomed participants from 81 countries and attracted a record 8,122 participants. For more information on the IBP program and offices, visit www.buyusa.gov/home/export.html. For information on IFAI Expo 2007, October 3-5 in Las Vegas, visit www.ifaiexpo.com.

The Industrial Fabrics Association International (IFAI) proactively represents and promotes the products and innovations of the specialty fabrics industry worldwide. For more information, visit www.ifai.com.