A Different IFTD show

When the American Fly Fishing Trade Association made the decision to produce its own trade show back in early 2010, the biggest challenge was how the show was going to be different from any other year.  

Since the tradeshow is now owned by the industry, we took your feedback, comments, and suggestions and created some new and exciting features for 2010.  We have the support of the best fly-fishing manufacturers and businesses in the world that believe in the future of our industry. 

New Features at the 2010 IFTD Show  

 Small Business Area:  We created a new opportunity for the small business owner to exhibit at the show for $350.   Whether it is the small mom and pop business or a smaller company that is trying to capture additional market share, these types of businesses will be exhibiting unique products and or services that the show has not seen in the past.  Often, these small companies do not have sales reps so this may be your only opportunity to see their offerings.

Profitability Seminar: We are soon announcing a new opportunity for retailers to participate in a seminar regarding “profitability” for their business.  This comprehensive seminar, delivered by a well-respected consultant from the fishing industry, will explore in detail the key components of any business including sales, margins, expenses, and inventory velocity.  From this seminar, retailers have the opportunity to emerge with a net full of ideas, concepts, skills, best practices, and a road map for achieving improved profits.  

Show Specials only at IFTD:  We are offering financial and profit driven incentives to retailers for attending the show.  We are compiling a list of show “specials” from exhibiting companies for all orders that are written and submitted at the show.   These show specials could include key product discounts, special buys on targeted exclusive show items, extended dating terms, shipping discounts, or volume incentives.  The list will be promoted to retailers prior to the show, posted on the show website and will be handed out at the entrance to the show.  The goal is to create an “order writing” mentality at the trade show.

New Product Release & Information Area:  We have created a new feature at the show allowing exhibiting companies to promote and discuss their new products/services with retailers, media, and all attendees at the show.  Each exhibitor will be able to sign-up for a time slot in this designated area to introduce his or her new products for the upcoming season.

One Free Night’s lodging:  Any new retailer that joins AFFTA at the level 2 membership or above receives the first night’s stay at the Hyatt Regency FREE.

$99 Room Rate at the Hyatt Regency Hotel:  We have secured a hotel room block at the Hyatt Regency Hotel for the outstanding rate of $99/night for single or double occupancy.  The hotel is one cast away from the convention center.

Conservation Area:  This new exhibit area of the show will highlight conservation groups, non-profit organizations, and environmental agencies.  It will provide opportunities for these organizations to network and discuss topics of conservation of fisheries, water issues, education, membership opportunities and more.

We are very excited about these new and different features at this year’s show. Additionally, we are finalizing some of the social and fun activities at the show and will be releasing that information in the next few weeks.  However, the 5^th Annual Drake Fly-fishing Video Awards will be held Thursday night, September 9^th at the Cervantes Masterpiece Ballroom at 26^th and Welton downtown Denver.

Finally, in response to concerns from industry members, we are planning to rotate the show locations in the future.  Next year, our plan is to be on the east coast.   Even though the show will be moving, Denver is still one of the most convenient and centrally located cities in the country.   See you at the show.