THANK YOU . . . .
What a show! Everyone who participated in the AWFS Las Vegas 2011 Fair benefited: exhibitors, attendees and staff, and I would like to take this opportunity to give my heartfelt thanks to each and every one of them. As a result of the AWFS Fair the entire woodworking industry profited. The Fair demonstrated the willingness of all segments of our industry to come together to learn, to network and to work toward the future of the woodworking industry. Because of this, the AWFS 2011 Fair proved to be a tremendous success and a strong shot in the arm to the future of woodworking.
A partial glimpse into the future of our industry was presented through the Fresh Wood contest where woodworking students (both secondary and post secondary levels) submitted their projects to be judged in several different categories. Winners were on display, and what a display it was!!
Proven: The design aspect of our industry is secure!
Preparation for the future was offered through the various seminars and hands-on classes offered through the College of Woodworking Knowledge® (CWWK®), which broke attendance records. Also, the ‘special desks’ and booths set up on the floor of the Fair were used extensively by the attendees answering questions and demonstrating new methods of production.
Proven: Administrators and skilled workers currently in our industry learned how to improve existing programs and implement new ones.
Exhibitors' sales jumped over expectation lines and kept going! Word on the floor was that the show exceeded expectation. Sales were brisk, and enthusiasm was at a peak showing that companies are now willing to invest capital to increase production and decrease costs and they are also looking for new supplies to stay in tune with current trends and designs. Outstanding displays and demonstrations by the exhibitors offered woodworkers many new opportunities in both design and construction.
Proven: Exhibitors have regained confidence in the industry and in the AWFS Las Vegas Fair. Attendees were big winners, too. They came prepared to buy, to learn and to network all of which were easily accessible and displayed in a format friendly manner at the 2011 AWFS Las Vegas Fair.
Proven: Satisfied attendees who spend money have faith in the future of woodworking and the AWFS Fair.
All of this would not have been possible without the diligent work of the AWFS staff whose job it is to create a successful Fair for the entire woodworking industry. One in which all aspects of the industry and all needs of each segment is met. Not an easy task. This takes a full two years of planning and preparation. Think of the ups and downs our economy went through during these past two years and what a marvelous job the staff did to present a Fair as successful as this one. Thank you also to the volunteers who participated and also to the trade press who gave AWFS their full support throughout these two tough years.
Proven: When we all work together toward the benefit of the industry, the results are powerful.
The future? Where do we go from here? As the saying goes, “onward and upward”!! Signed contracts for the 2013 Fair are running far beyond expectations! AWFS has pledged to continue to support the entire woodworking industry and toward another successful Fair that will meet the needs of all segments and enhance the well being of the entire woodworking industry. Again, thank you to all who participated and we look forward to your continued support!