The NATDA Trade Show & Convention organization recently reported that it featured a record-breaking 519 dealerships, a 5-percent increase from 2017. Dealers connected with more than 83 manufacturers, a 6-percent increase from 2017, and 160 vendors, 47 of which were exhibiting for the very first time.
“The incredible attendance and feedback we received this year shows dealers value our insightful educational topics,” said Andy Ackerman, NATDA president.
Before opening the show’s doors on Friday, dealers and exhibitors were treated to a President’s Breakfast sponsored by TexTrail Trailer Parts. While there, Google’s Partner Enablement Manager, Amy Swartz, and Flaman Group of Companies’ Executive Vice President, Steve Whittington, shared insight on creating powerful and meaningful experiences in today’s dealership climate. To close out the day, dealers stepped onto Lucas Oil Stadium’s field for an event from Redneck Trailer Supplies.
On the final day of the show, dealers voted for the winners of the 2018 NATDA New Product Awards.
The awards saw first-year exhibitors Link Lock (first place) and Eagle Hydraulics (second place) take home the top prizes, while Gen-Y Hitch, marking its third consecutive year on the podium, placed third. To close out the show, TRAIL-A-WAY and Dexter brought dealers together at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway for a reception that more than 200 people attended.
NATDA will head to the America’s Center in St. Louis, Missouri for the 2019 NATDA Trade Show & Convention on Sept. 5-7, 2019.
