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ISA 2009 Industrial Supply Conference and Trade Fair Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)

faqsFor complete details on the ISA Industrial Supply Conference and Trade Fair, you’ve come to the right place!

Please contact headquarters with any additional questions. For registration questions, email registration@isaconference.org; for Trade Fair questions, email exhibits@isaconference.org; and for all other conference inquiries please email info@isaconference.org or call us at (215) 320-3862, Toll-free: (866) 460-2360
Fax: (215) 963-9785, Toll-free: (877) 460-2365.

Industrial Supply Association
100 North 20th Street
4th Floor
Philadelphia, PA 19103
info@isaconference.org

Here are Your Questions….Answered!

GENERAL INFORMATION - back to top


REGISTRATION INFORMATION


TRADE FAIR INFORMATION


ON-SITE DETAILS

 

Your Questions….Answered!

GENERAL INFORMATION


What is the Industrial Supply Conference and Trade Fair (ISCTF)? - back to top
The ISA Industrial Supply Conference and Trade Fair (ISCTF) is the largest gathering of distributors, manufacturers, service providers, and independent manufacturers' representatives in the industrial supply industry.

The 2009 event will offer a balance of educational sessions and opportunities for face-to-face meetings with channel partners. The mission of the ISCTF is to provide attendees with the resources needed to enhance sales, reduce costs, and increase profitability. These will result from a combination of informal networking, structured meetings, and education forums.

What are the benefits of participating? - back to top
The ISCTF represents a once-a-year opportunity for education, networking, and business meetings with your colleagues in the MROP channel. This is the place to:

Connect with Industry Partners - Meet with business partners and make new contacts; many industry stakeholders will be represented!

Build Your Network - The Trade Fair features pre-scheduled meetings and informal networking opportunities.

Expand Your Knowledge - The expanded Conference track program was designed for members of the industrial supply industry and other interested professionals. Original research conducted on issues specific to the industrial supply chain will be unveiled here, and attendees will hear it first.

If you want to buy, sell, grow, learn, discover, connect, network, troubleshoot, recruit, market, introduce, meet, and do whatever it takes to help your business reduce costs and increase efficiencies and profits, this is the place to be in April, 2009.

For more information on the Benefits of Attending, click here.

Who attends the ISCTF? Must my company be a member of ISA to attend? - back to top

The ISCTF is open to suppliers, distributors, service providers and independent manufacturers' reps serving the MROP industry. Company leadership, sales personnel, and operations managers can all benefit by attending. Click here to view a list of registrants from the 2008 Conference.

Must my company be a member of ISA to attend? - back to top

The ISCTF is open to members and non-members interested in membership. Please note that non-members can only attend the ISCTF one year. Non-members who attended the ISCTF in 2008 must join ISA to participate in 2009. Non-members who haven't attended a past ISCTF that are interested in membership are encouraged to attend the 2009 event, but will have to join ISA to attend a future ISCTF. Non members can download the registration form and fax it to (215) 963-9785 or (877) 460-2365.

To Learn More about ISA and Join, Click here.

What is the anticipated size/attendance for the 2009 event? - back to top
In 2008 the ISCTF attracted nearly 2000 delegates representing more than 685 companies serving the industrial supply distribution channel. 50 percent of attendees were suppliers, 35 percent were distributors, 10 percent were independent manufacturers' reps, and 5 percent were industry service providers.

2009 presents an opportunity to reach out to prospective members in North America and abroad as ISA plans to expand its members' reach and scope. We will continue to work hard on behalf of our members to promote the value of this educational and networking event.

How are the Conference and Trade Fair portions of this event different? - back to top
The Conference is the educational portion of the ISCTF. The luncheons and educational programs for attendees are scheduled for Monday, April 20 and Tuesday, April 21. Tuesday's program includes four education program sessions. Networking opportunities will abound as you meet and greet fellow attendees during the breaks, the golf tournament and throughout the ISCTF.

The Trade Fair is the two-day booth display portion of the ISCTF held on Tuesday, April 21 and Wednesday, April 22. Manufacturers and Suppliers will host booths on Tuesday from 9:45 AM - 5:00 PM, with a luncheon program break from 12:00 - 2:00 PM. Distributors and Independent Manufacturers' Reps will host booths on Wednesday, April 22 from 8:00 AM - 1:30 PM. Service Providers will host booths on both days. Master Distributors can host booths on both Tuesday and Wednesday or on Tuesday only.

Schedule of Events

Where will the ISCTF events take place? - back to top
This year all ISCTF events will take place at the Marriott Rivercenter Hotel and the Henry B. Gonzalez Conference Center within easy walking distance of the Marriott Rivercenter. Click here for information on the Marriott Rivercenter Hotel.

How can I learn more about the speaker programs and topics? - back to top
The ISCTF features subject matter experts from across the industry, addressing the most current topics for the MROP Distribution channel.

Speakers and Program

Can someone help me with transportation and entertainment during the Conference & Trade Fair? - back to top
If you're looking for a nifty place to dine, are undecided about where to go for entertainment or need to rent a car or reserve taxi/limousine service, Creative Dining & Entertainment's Concierge Service can help! Creative Dining & Entertainment's thoughtful and experienced staff will assist you with your dining and entertainment needs. Simply stop by the Creative Dining & Entertainment desk in the official Conference Hotel Headquarters, or phone, fax or e-mail Creative Dining & Entertainment before you get to San Antonio! Contact Creative Dining & Entertainment at (210) 402-3046, via fax at (210) 402-0335 or send an e-mail to lhorn@snet.net.

REGISTRATION INFORMATION

Can I attend either the Conference or the Trade Fair portion of the Trade Fair exclusively? - back to top
There is no Trade Fair- or Conference-only option. Anyone wishing to attend and participate in the Trade Fair on Tuesday and Wednesday must pay the full delegate registration fee.

For registration options and details, click here.

Is advance registration required? - back to top
The ISCTF will offer on-site registration; however, advance registration is strongly encouraged. Upon registration, your company contact information will be submitted to the FastMatch electronic appointment scheduling system, which attendees will use to make meeting appointments for the Trade Fair. Your name will not be entered into FastMatch and you cannot make appointments until you register, so be sure to register early! Click here to learn more about FastMatch.

In addition, registering by March 6 will ensure your listing on the Web site and in the printed program, which is sent to all attendees in advance of the ISCTF. This offers excellent exposure and encourages others to contact your prior to the event.

What is my cost to participate in the ISCTF? - back to top
Every registrant is responsible for their own travel costs and hotel accommodations. In addition, registration is required in order to participate in ISCTF. Registration fees are as follows:

Early Bird: $550 (November 17 - March 6) includes attendance at all conference educational and social functions, as well as the Trade Fair and lunches on April 21 and 22.

Regular: $605 (After March 6) includes attendance at all conference educational and social functions, as well as the Trade Fair booths and lunches on April 21 and 22.

Spouses and Guests: $110 - Includes the Opening Extravaganza on Monday, April 20. Spouses and guests cannot attend educational track programs, luncheons or the Trade Fair. Spouses and guests must be registered to attend ISCTF events. This registration category cannot be used for additional company representatives.

To register online, click here.

Can I see other attendees? - back to top
The updated list of registrants will be posted to the ISA Conference Web site regularly in advance of the ISCTF. Click here to see the most current listing.

Who should attend? - back to top
Company leadership, sales personnel, operations managers and other interested parties can benefit from their attendance. The educational program is designed to increase attendees' value to their companies, amplify their knowledge of the MROP channel and provide important information to their entire organizations. Attendees can visit and benefit from any or all of the educational sessions.

Can I bring a spouse or guest? - back to top
Plan to bring your spouse or guest. Registration for spouses and guests is $110. Spouses and guests will be issued badges for use during the ISCTF. BADGES MUST BE WORN AT ALL TIMES. They are used to identify attendees and allow access to ISA-only areas and events during the Conference & Trade Fair. Spouses and guests may not attend the educational track programs, luncheons or the Trade Fair. These events are specifically designed for the conference registrants. For information on spouse/guests activities at ISCTF, click here.  

How do I register? - back to top
Register online by clicking here. Registering online is the quickest and most convenient way to register. You are welcome to print out a registration form and mail or fax it to ISA headquarters. Full payment by check or credit card is due at time of registration. NON-MEMBERS MUST REGISTER VIA FAX. Non-members can click here to download, print and return registration forms.

How do I secure hotel reservations? - back to top
Attendees can secure their hotel reservations. ISA has a room block at the Marriott Rivercenter and Marriott Riverwalk Hotels for attendee use. Mention ISA to receive the discounted room rate.
Click here for information on hotel rates and reservation options.

What if I have to cancel my registration or replace or add an attendee? - back to top
Written registration cancellations received at ISA headquarters by April 6 will receive a full refund, less a $100 per attendee administrative fee. After April 6, no refunds will be issued. Refunds will be issued from 4-6 weeks following the last day of the Conference (April 22).

Changes or replacements can be sent to registration@isaconference.org. Additional attendees must complete new registration on-line or fax forms to 215-963-9785 or (877) 460-2365.

Can I confirm I am registered correctly? - back to top
Every individual registered for the ISCTF will receive confirmation. Check your confirmation to make sure that all information is correct. Contact ISA headquarters at (215) 320-3862 or via e-mail at registration@isaconference.org with questions.

TRADE FAIR INFORMATION

How large is the Trade Fair? - back to top
The 2008 Conference Booth Program included hundreds of exhibitors during its two-day run. We are projecting a good rate of growth for the Trade Fair this year.
What are the Trade Fair Hours? - back to top
The Manufacturer/Supplier-hosted booth program will run from 9:45 AM - 5:00 PM on Tuesday, April 21, with a luncheon program break from 12:00 - 2:00 PM.

The Distributor/Independent Manufacturer's Rep hosted booth program will run from 8:00 AM - 1:30 PM on Wednesday, April 22.

Who will be hosting booths on what days? - back to top
Suppliers/Manufacturers will host booths on Tuesday, April 21.

Distributors and Independent Manufacturers Reps will host booths on Wednesday, April 22.

Master Distributors are also invited to host booths on Tuesday, April 21 and Wednesday, April 22.

Service Providers are invited to host booths on Tuesday, April 21 and Wednesday, April 22.

Trade Show Policies

What are the Exhibit Booth Rental Fees?

Manufacturer/Supplier on Tuesday, April 21: 8'x10' Booth = $650 Additional 8'x10' booths are $265.

Distributors and Independent Manufacturers' Reps on Tuesday, April 21: There is no cost for booth rental for distributors and independent manufacturers' representatives.

Master Distributors: 8'x10' Booth = $650. Additional 8'x10' booths are $265.

Service Providers on April 21 and 22: A one-time rental fee of $325 will be charged for member Service Providers for both days. Additional booths are $135. Non-member Service Providers are welcome to exhibit on April 21 and 22 at a booth rental fee of $650 for an 8'x10' booth. Additional booths are $265 each. Service Providers pay a one-day fee but exhibit on both days.

Do I have any input on my booth placement on the Trade Fair floor? - back to top
Manufacturers and Suppliers will select their own booths for the Trade Fair Booth Program. Registration and booth payment must be received to complete booth selection process. Click here to view the floorplan for the Trade Fair.

Distributors/Independent Manufacturers' Reps will have booths assigned.

Service providers can select their own booths.

How do I ensure that I meet with everyone I want to see at the Trade Fair? - back to top

You are responsible for your own scheduling. The FastMatch electronic scheduling system makes it easy. When you register for the ISCTF, your information will be entered into the FastMatch system. You will be asked to designate a contact for your FastMatch scheduling. Go to the FastMatch link and follow the easy steps to make request and respond to appointments.

What opportunities will I have to meet with new contacts that I discover at the ISCTF? - back to top
The Trade Fair hours include some open time, not included on the FastMatch appointment schedule. The first hour of the Trade Fair on Tuesday, April 21 will be open time and the first hour of the Trade Fair on Wednesday, April 22 will also be open time. The luncheon program will take place from 12:00 - 2:00 PM on Tuesday, April 21.

How do I learn more about the exhibitors at the Trade Fair? - back to top
You can find complete details about Manufacturers and Suppliers hosting booths on Tuesday, April 21 when you click here to see the floor plan. When making their booth selections, manufacturers are encouraged to submit detailed information about products, show specials, and brochures. This information will be available for all visitors to the site.

To find out which manufacturers/suppliers are exhibiting, visit the FastMatch section by clicking here.

What can I do to increase my exposure and promote my products at the ISCTF? - back to top
ISA makes it easy:

  • Take out an ad in the printed program, which will be sent to all registrants. Delegates keep this booklet with them and refer to it often during and after the event. The cost is $500 for a full page ad, $300 for a half-page ad, $650 for a high-visibility divider-page and $800 for the outside back page (first come, first served) in the printed program. Click here for an advertising order form.
  • Submit information for a poster in the “Hall of Innovation” –The entranceway to the Trade Fair floor will feature boards promoting news from exhibitors including announcements about new personnel, new products, new innovations, new technology, new expansions and more. Submit your information to ISA headquarters by January 4, 2009 and we will prepare a sign for your approval and display for both days of the Trade Fair. The cost is $175/entry.
    Click here to download and print a form for the Hall of Innovation
  • ISA members can sign up to sponsor one or more events. Various levels of sponsorship are available and sponsors will be recognized with signs, notations in the printed program, badge ribbons and other concessions. Platinum and silver sponsors will receive complementary ads in the program.Click here for details on sponsorship.
  • Sign up for a booth in the Specialty Chemicals, Cleaners & Fluids Pavilion Click here for the booth layout to select a booth in that section. NOTE: You can purchase more than one booth; one in the pavilion and one on the floor.


What is included with my booth rental? - back to top
Space rental includes an 8' high back wall and 3' side rails, carpeting, wastebasket, pipe and drape, and a two-line 7" x 44" identification sign.

When can I set up my booth and tear down my booth? - back to top
Move-in for Tuesday exhibitors - Monday, April 20 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Move-out for Tuesday exhibitors - Tuesday, April 21, 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM

Move-in for Wednesday exhibitors - Tuesday April 21, 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Move-out for Wednesday exhibitors - Wednesday, April 22, 1:30 PM - 3:00 PM

Once I sign up to participate, where can I obtain information on setting up my booth, ordering additional furniture, shipping, etc.? - back to top
Upon receipt of payment, you can complete and submit your specific exhibit needs using the Freeman Exhibition Services Exhibit Kit.

ON-SITE DETAILS

What is my admission to the ISCTF? - back to top
Your badge is your admission to all events. Badges for all pre-registered attendees will be sent in advance. Bring your badge with you to the ISCTF in San Antonio, Texas.

How do I know where to go? - back to top
All registrants will receive a printed program book prior to the event, with all specifics on activities and a complete list of registrants.

What is the dress code for ISCTF? - back to top

April temperatures in San Antonio average 80 degrees. Pack accordingly!

Dress for all ISCTF functions is business casual.

In general, San Antonio is a casual place where comfortable dress is the norm. Most restaurants do not have dress codes, however, if you are planning on a nice dinner at one of the more upscale restaurants you could be required to have a coat. Your best bet for clothing is simple: neat, comfortable, business casual clothing.

And the question you were afraid to ask….Is it all work and no play? - back to top

No way! While business will be booming during this event, there will be some opportunities to add some fun and pleasure into your trip. The YEF Golf Tournament will be held Sunday, April 19 at the Quarry Golf Club in San Antonio. Everyone is invited, but pre-registration and pre-payment is required. Click here for the registration form.

This year, the ISCTF is being held during San Antonio's Fiesta, a celebration of local and regional culture, history and tradition. Festivities are planned for the entire weeks. For more information on our host city, click here.