IDCO wraps up 'first-class' Expo in Louisville
The 2024 IDCO Expo November 4-6 in Louisville brought ogether IDCO’s member companies and supplier partners for an exciting and productive event.
With the Expo shifting to November to alternate with the Principals Conference, it was the first Expo in nearly two years—and the energy was dynamic, according to attendees.
"First class show as always. Well organized, great one-on-one meetings, and overall, a really enjoyable experience," said Mike Kopatich, vice president of sales at Lock and Lube.
Since its last meeting, 12 new members and three new suppliers have joined, showcasing the continued growth and strength of the network. “I’ve been to a lot of tradeshows, and I can honestly say this was the most well-run and productive trade show I’ve ever been to,” said John Girard of Fluid Handling Resources.
The event started with an opening event sponsored by Kuriyama of America. New to the opening night was the IDCO Women’s Leadership Group cocktail reception, sponsored by American Biltrite, celebrating women in industry.
“Last year, a small group of women brainstormed over breakfast at the Expo, and now we have the IDCO Women’s Leadership Group," said Karen May, corporate marketing manager at HBD Industries. "It's amazing to see this supportive community grow and kick off the Expo with a packed room of inspiring leaders. These two events marked the start of an engaging week focused on networking opportunities and business growth."
Attendees participated in one-on-one planning meetings and interactive trade shows throughout the Expo. New sessions, like Mike Marks’ “The Channel of Choice,” encouraged distributors and suppliers to share best practices and set accountability standards. Another standout was the Evolving Leaders Group Discovery session, where participants collaborated on shaping the future of leadership within IDCO.
“This was my first IDCO Expo, and it was a 10/10," said said Michael Mahan, regional sales manager at Brennan Industries. "Meeting with thought leaders and customers for 3 days is paramount for growth & success in the industry. The IDCO Leadership team had a very productive agenda, and I cannot wait to attend next year’s Expo,”
Flexaust sponsored breakfast and lunch on Tuesday, and Dixon sponsored breakfast and lunch on Wednesday.
This year’s theme played off the 2024 election, adding a fun twist with the IDCO Election debates. Sponsored by Brennan Industries, the debates featured Jason Bethel of Commerce Hose, IDCO’s Member of the Year, and Brent Lilly of PT Coupling, Supplier of the Year, along with their running mates, engaging in a spirited and lighthearted discussion.
The Expo wrapped up with a fan-favorite: Game Night, sponsored by Midland Industries.
"Another outstanding IDCO Expo experience," said Fred Coppola, national channel sales manager for Coxreels. "Simply put, great members, great suppliers, and great IDCO personnel equals great experience!"
INDUSTRIAL SUPPLY MAGAZINE
The November/December issue of Industrial Supply magazine features an in-depth cover story about Kimball Midwest. Plus, we're featuring articles by contributing writers Dirk Beveridge, Frank Hurtte, and Mike Marks, as well as interviews with numerous product and distribution industry experts.
