While foot traffic appeared slower at the World of Concrete show in Las Vegas last week, many exhibitors interviewed by RER reported a more optimistic, upbeat attitude among customers. Several manufacturers reported a better-than-expected order-writing environment in what is generally not viewed as a buying show.
Several exhibitors said while numbers were down — estimates ranged from a 15- to 25-percent year-over-year dropoff — most companies sent fewer representatives to the show, with the emphasis on higher-level decision-makers. “In previous years, a lot of companies were enjoying boom times and used World of Concrete as an opportunity to take staff to come party in Las Vegas,” said one exhibitor. “This year fewer people are traveling, but those that are are more serious.”
“I’ve sensed much greater optimism, a more upbeat attitude,” added Torsten Erbel, vice president product management, engineering & customer support for Carson, Calif.-based Multiquip Inc. “We’ve been pleasantly surprised by the amount of traffic and the level of customer interest.”
While others were less upbeat, the consensus was more positive, with customers feeling closer to the end of the downturn than the beginning.
