Tradeshow Report

(November 2009)

Remodeling Show & DeckExpo 2009 Recap

For the first time, Hanley Wood’s Remodeling Show co-located with DeckExpo for a double-feature tradeshow. Though separate shows, the two merged nicely within the showroom at the Indiana Convention Center. The event was held in Indianapolis October 28-30.

When making the decision last year to co-locate the shows, Amy Allen, Associate Show Director for both the Remodeling Show and DeckExpo said, “These two events are a natural fit. Both the remodeler and deck builder are craftsmen who are constantly looking for education to stay ahead of their customers and to grow their businesses.”

The aim of the show, according to Hanley Wood Exhibitions Account Executive Margaret Watt, was to demonstrate how to install and use the showcased products and systems in a user-friendly and safe way. Many companies gave demonstrations throughout the three-day event to show how their tools, systems and products performed.

Though the turnout was a bit smaller than usual, many felt that those who were there had quality products to offer, and networking and marketing opportunities were still valuable.

A trending theme at the show was the idea of bringing tradeshows and informational demonstrations to end users and influencers. Knowing that money is tight right now, many exhibitors are hitting the road and traveling to various areas of the country in order to raise awareness about their products and services.

Pella Corporation, for example, is taking charge in continuing education. In 2010, the company will launch its Pro Expo program, which will help remodelers market their business better and will provide sales tools and financing opportunities for their customers. The Pro Expo will take place nationwide in a series of 30 events in which Pella brings the tradeshow to you. There will be opportunities for earning credits, product displays, food and prizes.

Another company hitting the pavement is LENOX Tools. With their new Site Commander for the 2010 Road to Recovery Tour, LENOX showcased an array of new products. Using the ultimate work truck, the company is driving across the country to visit more than 400 Lowe’s stores where they showcase tools and jobsite solutions for contractors. Susan Spalding, Director of Marketing and Communications, said LENOX is working hard to communicate with end-users online as well, introducing new products using alternative resources.

As for other notable exhibitors…

Duradek’s difference lies in the emphasis the company puts on installer certification. Their waterproof vinyl systems for roofs, decks and balconies are only applied by authorized applicators – people who have been specially trained and certified by Duradek. The company takes pride in its products’ details, such as invisible seaming, drain mats and finish techniques.  

Highlighting ease of installation, Fortress Iron Railing & Fence Systems showcased its three categories each of fence systems and railings. Also new to the company is a lighting division. Highpoint Deck Lighting joined forces with Fortress to offer a line of high-end artistic deck lighting. These, too, are easy to install and give off gentle ambient light.

Appealing to all tastes and price ranges, MasterBrand Cabinets was at the Remodeling Show displaying an array of cabinets with different colors, textures and materials. Andy Wells, VP of Product Design and Merchandising, also spoke at the event about how kitchens are an experience rather than simply a room in the home.

In an effort to make DIY projects and installations easier on remodelers and contractors, Schluter Systems presented its Schluter-KERDI, a bonded waterproof membrane used to completely waterproof showers. The company’s experts were on hand to demonstrate each step of applying Schluter-KERDI before laying tile.

While at the Remodeling Show and DeckExpo, the K&A team interviewed select exhibitors about their products. Our video broadcasts may be seen soon on the K&A YouTube channel. We’ll also bring the news to you from Phoenix as we attend Greenbuild November 11 – 13. For more information about the tradeshows we attend, contact Steve Kleber on Twitter @stevekleber.


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