2017 Was A Record Breaking NAMA

May 15, 2017

According to the Nationtional Automatic Merchandising Association (NAMA), the 2017 OneShow had the highest exhibitor count to date. Out of the 311 exhibiting companies, 76 were first-time participants. Not to mention the 4,500 attendees that made their way to Lass Vegas this year to attend educational sessions, walk the trade show floor and network.

The General Session, sponsored by PepsiCo, featured former First Lady Laura Bush, who delivered a powerful address, sharing stories from her time in the White House and her work with the George W. Bush Institute, her recent books and her work on global healthcare and education initiatives. Following her keynote address, Mrs. Bush took part in a one-on-one fireside chat with NAMA CEO Carla Balakgie.

The General Session also unveiled new branding for the OneShow, officially deeming it “The NAMA Show,” aligning it with the long-standing nickname bestowed on the event by attendees.

The annual industry awards, hosted by NAMA Chair Pat Hagerty, were a special highlight with a ceremony honoring: Industry Person of the Year, Randy Smith; Allied Member of the Year, Mandeep Arora; and Operator of the Year, Lance Whorton.

The robust 2017 education lineup resulted in some of OneShow’s highest-attended sessions, including audiences ranging from 50 to 400+ participants on Wednesday and Thursday. Key topics included micro markets, industry technology, employment law, nutrition trends, break room design, and Generation C.

The highest attended sessions included “What’s Trending in Vending, Coffee Service and Micro Markets” with more than 400 attendees, and “Optimize Your Business with a Technology Roadmap,” with more than 200 attendees. Tuesday’s four pre-conference sessions drew more than 140 attendees total – a record for pre-conference education. A selection of OneShow education presentations are available for download at www.namaoneshow.org/schedule.

Micro Markets In The Spotlight

Micro markets continue to be a powerful new business driver for the industry. They dominated at the NAMA OneShow with a number of kiosk launches for smaller locations, two new micro market suppliers, enhanced shelving and micro market design offerings, and integrations with existing vending technology not to mention the selection of new products and educational sessions about how to succeed.