A fully engaged expo signals an exciting time for fabricators and retailers
The International Window Coverings Expo (IWCE) returned in April after taking a two-year break and Solatech was excited to be there. After a busy couple of weeks back in High Point, our team was finally able to sit down and discuss how IWCE more than lived up to expectations.
The IWCE enjoyed the highest attendance in more than 10 years, proving what we saw firsthand on the show floor in Ft. Lauderdale: the industry as a whole is looking to leap forward in productivity and efficiency.
With an increased focus on technology throughout the expo, the high number of retailers and fabricators attending the show was matched only by their engagement with what the many software, marketing, SEO, and equipment vendors had to say.
“Folks are ready for ways to run more efficiently,” says Chan Howell, Solatech’s National Sales Manager. That means there was a tremendous amount of focus on Solatech’s fabrication and automation software, as well as the integrated tools that retailers are finding even more essential.
The high level of energy and interest at the expo has our team excited for the future of the industry. “Despite rising costs, everyone in the industry is extremely busy and demand is still growing,” says Ray Soltis, Solatech’s CEO.
A hot topic at the show was also motorization and the impact of child safety regulation, especially among fabricators attempting to navigate new laws in Canada.
The show’s presenters gave the industry attendees plenty of opportunities to learn and grow, as well. “There were a number of presenters that I really admire, based upon how they are helping the industry grow through education, training and services,” explains Soltis. “Industry professionals like Jessica Harling, Madeline MacRae, Will Hanke, Oliver Schrieber, and Roger Magalhaes.”
“If I was a retailer or fabricator, I would’ve been excited about all the new information, technology and solutions available,” adds Howell.
According to an IWCE press release, the expo featured 100 exhibitors and over 3,500 attendees, representing 48 U.S. states and 34 countries. “(The expo) brought a diverse lineup of educational seminars, world-class speakers, and hundreds of products to thousands of attendees, making this show one of the most important gatherings in our industry’s history!” says Grace McNamara, IWCE show producer.
The organization’s release describes IWCE as the only gathering in the world dedicated exclusively to the largest window covering market in the world — North America. The event featured two full days of product exhibits and demonstrations and more than 50 seminars and special events.
Did you attend IWCE?
We’re interested in hearing what you saw, heard and learned at the expo this April, and if it has you looking forward to greater opportunities for efficiency and productivity. We invite you to reach out to us to hear more about what we saw at IWCE and to give us your take on the event.