With money so tight, I thought it would be a good idea to mention the upcoming SPESA tradeshow now so you can put it into your budget for next year. It takes place in Atlanta GA May 18-20, 2010. Even if your needs are not immediate, you might want to make it a priority to attend because it is only held once every three years. In the olden days we had the Bobbin Show; at that time it was the largest trade show in the world. It was one of those events that everybody attended and for more than just business with parties every night (people still talk about the YKK parties) and meeting with people you’ve only talked to over the phone for the past year. Many of us still miss it. But, it’s time to move on and create new traditions.
SPESA (Sewn Products Equipment & Suppliers of the Americas) is the only sourcing show for production related equipment, services and products in North America. I couldn’t even begin to estimate how many entries I’ve written based on interviews and information I picked up at the show in 2007. Want to know about machines and see them in operation -or even use them? check. Looking for odd ball supplies you know surely exist but can’t name? check. Looking for a contractor? check. Want to try the gamut of CAD software on the market? check. Looking for dress forms? It’ll all be there. America’s 21st will be there with a demonstration of a lean sewing cell. You have got to see one in operation, it’s not believable otherwise. Plus, many of us will be there. I think about 30 of us showed up last time (we had a great time), we should try to double that figure next year. I don’t say that idly. Suppliers won’t be responsive until they see we’re an appreciable segment of the market, organized and most of all, that we share information with each other both good and bad.
Yesterday I received word that a technical textile show (Techtextil 2010) will be held concurrently with SPESA. This is an unparalleled opportunity to have all of your interfacing and technical fabric questions answered once and for all. And of course, the fusing and pressing equipment will be there too.
I don’t think you can register for the show yet but if you plan to go, definitely let the rest of us know and we’ll update you when registration opens (attendance is likely free, it usually is). You can RSVP in the forum or on Facebook. If your business isn’t officially underway yet, this is not an insurmountable problem. Enough of us are going that we can get you badges with advance notice. Speaking of, you don’t need to worry about credentials at this show as much as you do at the wholesale apparel market shows. Pretty much anybody can get in; they’re happy to have your warm body there because let’s face it, it’s not a big draw unless you’re really into that kind of thing.
I look forward to meeting many of you there! And while I’m thinking of it, I’m having custom lapel pins designed for Fashion-Incubator members so you can more easily find kindred on the trade show floor. I will likely also give some to vendors who have been friendly to small businesses. Or maybe I’ll make up table tents they can put in their booths so you can be guaranteed of a warm reception. More information on the lapel pins will be posted to the forum when they become available.
Related:
Miami Beach day 1
Miami Beach day 1A
Back from SPESA & Material World
SPESA Trip Report: Eric Husman
SPESA Trip Report: Kathleen pt.1
SPESA Trip Report: Kathleen pt.2
SPESA Trip Report: Kathleen pt.3
SPESA Trip Report: Kathleen pt.4