Discovering Solutions Called Key Benefit of REAL DEAL EXPO photo by Mike Gatty The REAL DEAL EXPO featured the latest offerings from exhibitors, a chance to network and discuss common concerns—plus special deals to help members save money. For many distributors attending the AWMA REAL DEAL EXPO in Las Vegas last week, sharing ideas and finding new solutions to common problems was a major benefit gained from spending three days in Las Vegas. "It has been—as always—a great opportunity for us to meet with other distributors and discuss common issues," Elvin Smythers, Merchants Grocery Co. Inc., Culpeper, VA, said. "And then, by taking advantage of the terrific show deals that are offered, we can help pay for the trip." That view was expressed time and again by distributors attending the show, who also appreciated the opportunity to meet with manufacturing company executives—perhaps people they didn’t normally have a chance to work with—all within a concentrated period of time in one location. Likewise, numerous manufacturers were pleased with both the number and quality of contacts and leads generated from the show. "I think it’s been a good show. All of the manufacturers and distributors that I’ve talked with have been very positive," said AWMA Chairman Ricky Jones, Andalusia Distributing Co. Inc. "I think the networking opportunity is a large part of it. You get to talk with other distributors, share ideas and come up with solutions. Plus, there are the new products, and an opportunity to solve problems that you might have with various manufacturers." "It’s great. We introduced three new pieces of equipment at the show," reported Tim Arends, business unit manager at Meyercord Revenue, Inc. "We’ve received a lot of positive responses. It is a well-executed show and we enjoy the opportunity to see so many of our customers here all at once." Doug Smith, national account executive at Ol’ Smokehaus by Landes, reported similar success. "We’ve done some good business here," he said. "We made some real nice solid contacts. It’s been a very good experience. AWMA has been great to work with--from A to Z." "We have been very pleased," reported Chuck Newton, vice president, sales, Premier Manufacturing, Inc. "The level of attendees is good, but even more important, people are actually buying. It’s very important to our business for us to participate." New products and services are a big attraction for many attendees as well. "For me, the ability to interact with other distributors and see what’s new is a major benefit of attending the EXPO," commented Larry Bojanowski, Lawrenceville Central Cigar-Candy Co., Lawrenceville, IL. "Hopefully, we can also save some money by taking advantage of the show deals. It would be nice if even more manufacturers would participate in that program." Bob Krier, Dearborn Wholesale Grocers Inc., agreed, but said a major value for him was being able to meet with manufacturing company decision-makers at one place and one time—"all in the space of a couple of days." Asked how he benefited from participating in EXPO, David Wagers, Idaho Candy Co., Boise, ID, said he looks for new ideas on "how to run my business better." Does he succeed? "Every time I come," he said. "That’s why we’re here." Paula Glidewell, Glidewell Distributing Co., Fort Smith, AR, was pleased with the 5 to 10% savings on orders that she placed during the show. "That’s huge for us," she said. "But the networking, the new ideas to help your business grow—they are even more important. If you are a distributor and you’re not here," she said, "you are missing out. We have got to stand together or we will fall. It’s really very simple." For more information on attending the REAL DEAL EXPO, contact customer service at either 800-564-4220 or 703-449-6418 or awmaregistration@jspargo.com