Looking Forward to the Expo

A working vacation could be just the ticket for you and your business

It’s February. Winter has gripped the colder climates for months and spring still seems a lifetime away. It’s time to take a break from the day-to-day. Take a guilt-free vacation, get away from the office, phones and trucks, and give your business prospects a boost, too.

The 2012 Pumper & Cleaner Environmental Expo kicks off Feb. 27 in Indianapolis. The four-day show provides a unique opportunity for the contractors of this industry to come together, share their experiences and learn from one another, in addition to getting a first-hand look at the latest and greatest products and technology. Of course, there’s also a full slate of educational seminars presented by top industry experts, so you’re sure to come away with fresh perspectives and insights that will help your business grow and prosper.

And while Indianapolis may not rank with Cabo or St. Thomas as an ideal winter getaway, it is far more inviting than those unfamiliar with the Midwestern city might assume. For starters, the Indianapolis Convention Center is a world-class facility. Skywalks connect it to more than 4,700 hotel rooms, so even if it’s cold outside, you’ll be able to leave your jacket at home. In addition to hotels, skywalks connect the Convention Center to a variety of dining, shopping and entertainment options, including the four-story Circle Center Mall. In fact, downtown Indianapolis, voted the Most Walkable Downtown in America by Sports Illustrated, boasts over 200 restaurants and entertainment options.

The amenities and attractions make Indianapolis well worth the trip, but the real reason to make your way to the heart of Hoosier country is the Expo itself. The 2012 Expo will feature three full days of demos and new technology in addition to more than 500 exhibitors representing all aspects of the industry, but Education Day may be the most valuable aspect of the Expo. More than 60 seminars taught by top industry experts promise a positive return on your investment and opportunities to keep improving your business well into the future.

All of these aspects of the Expo provide great benefits for attendees, but what makes it the industry’s most valuable learning opportunity is the attendees themselves. The opportunities to network and learn from peers are unparalleled. As people comment every year, there’s no better opportunity to meet and learn from your peers than the Expo. Because these people share your vocation and your experiences, but aren’t necessarily your direct competitors, the flow of perspectives and information is free and open. You can talk to people who have added services you’re considering. You can pick up strategies for growth from people who have already built strong businesses. You can learn about other people’s business practices – what has worked for them and what hasn’t – and that can only help your business.

The 2012 Expo will be exciting for me, too. It’ll be my first time attending the event, and I’m looking forward to it for several reasons. First, I’ve had the opportunity to talk to quite a few people in the industry, but I haven’t met many of you in person. The chance to meet more of the people who are pushing the industry forward is a great opportunity. Building relationships with contractors and manufacturers helps make this magazine a better resource for our readers, just as building those relationships yourselves makes your businesses better.

Second, I have read, written and edited countless stories over the past several months. I’ve put great effort into understanding this industry, including the equipment and processes that are a part of every cleaning industry professional’s repertoire. I’ve watched videos online and I’ve watched a CIPP project in action, but the Expo will be my first opportunity to see it all up close. It’s not unlike when you’re looking to buy a new truck or add a new service: You can do all the research, but until you get a chance to kick the tires on that truck or see a manufacturer’s new line of nozzles, it’s difficult to really get a handle on it.

The Expo will be an opportunity for me to get a better handle on the industry and the people who propel it forward. Likewise, it’s an opportunity for you to meet your peers and get a handle on how to propel your business forward.

Finally, the 2012 Expo is going to be fun. While the business opportunities will be virtually unlimited, there will also be plenty of opportunities to relax and enjoy your time in Indy. In addition to easy access to a wide variety of dining and entertainment options, the Industry Appreciation Party on Tuesday, Feb. 28, promises to be a great time. Country music star Rodney Atkins, with six number one singles to his credit, headlines the evening, which is free with full admission. And don’t forget the 25-cent tap beers, another of the evening’s popular attractions.

There’s plenty of reasons to attend the Expo, and regardless of what motivates you, it’s worth the trip. I’m looking forward to four days in Indy and the opportunity to meet, talk and get to know you. Maybe we can even enjoy a couple of those 25-cent tappers together.

See you there.



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