IFAI Expo 2008 Exhibitors Presented Growing Global Industry of Specialty Fabrics

The Industrial Fabrics Association International hosted its annual high-energy gathering of the growing specialty fabrics industry at the Charlotte Convention Center. For three days exhibitors displayed an impressive array of new products, smart fabrics and green solutions, innovative new kinds of high-performance and sustainable design. According to IFAI President and CEO Stephen Warner, "No other industry textile show draws buyers from all levels of the supply chain in such a diverse range of markets. IFAI Expo continues to grow in size, market reach and recognition as the leading event for specialty fabrics."

• IFAI Expo 2008 had a record-breaking 8,210 registered participants from 58 countries--continuing its reign as the largest specialty fabrics trade show in the Americas. IFAI Vice President of Conference Management Todd Lindemann added that "The exhibitors had a good show this year. Despite the economic turmoil of the times, we had a great turnout and are already 70% booked for IFAI Expo 2009 in San Diego--which has been the most popular show destination we've ever had in the past. Many exhibitors have increased their booth size for next year."

Here's What Exhibitors and Attendees Were Saying About IFAI Expo 2008

"By 11 a.m., Day 2, we ran out of literature and business cards. We didn't anticipate the volume of traffic, even though we have attended Expo in the past. IFAI Expo 2008 was the best show of all!"
- Jim Wyatt, Weisner Steel Products - Tampa, FL

"We see a wider range of our customers and suppliers at the IFAI show compared to any other. So it makes sense for us to exhibit there rather than try to walk the show, as we do at others."
- Mike Radziwon, Gladding Braided Products, LLC - South Otselic, NY

"IFAI Expo 2008 was very good for us. We now have exposure in a large market segment in which we had previously not been well known. The door has opened and now it's up to us to take advantage of that. I am busily responding to the leads and we have several orders in hand from prospects who visited with us in Charlotte. ONE SALE pays for the show since we are selling machines that average over $10,000 per sale. We are also very pleased with the quality of the leads. We'll definitely be (at IFAI Expo 2009) in San Diego next year."
- Robert Borders, Creative Companies of Kentucky - Buckner, KY

"The fabric graphics seminar was very good; the speakers were very thorough and knowledgeable about the industry, technology and green issues. The Fabric Graphics Association alone is worth my IFAI membership. I also enjoyed the International Reception given by IFAI."
- Blaise Humphries, DHJ International - Selestat, France

"IFAI Expo 2008 was very good! It has always been a great experience for me. I always get to see a lot of new things and build a lot of relationships." Francisco Gutierrez, Lonas y Cubiertas S. A. DE C. V. - Chihuahua, Mexico "The highlight of the show was the fact that it opened a whole new market for us. We are involved in many industries; basically any industry that uses patterns or CNC equipment. While we have been aware of the canvas industry, specifically for boats, homes and commercial awnings--we found a much larger world at IFAI. The show was definitely worth our time and expenses and we have already signed up for IFAI Expo 2009. The IFAI staff was most co-operative and helpful and we look forward to San Diego in 09."
- Mike Guilbert, Gary Dube & Vicente Ilustre, Prodim USA - Vero Beach, FL

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