TORONTO, ON, Canada — A total of 10,735 attendees walked through the isles of Toronto’s National Trade Centre at the recent ISH North America trade show, according to event organizers. Many of the visitors also attended one of the more than 50 educational seminars that ran concurrently with the show.

ISH North America was produced in partnership with Messe Frankfurt Inc., the American Supply Association (ASA), Canadian Institute of Plumbing and Heating (CIPH), and the Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors — National Association (PHCC). Officials at Messe Frankfurt reported that 475 companies exhibited their latest products and services. Approximately 23% of all exhibitors were Canadian-based companies. Companies based in the United States accounted for almost 72% of the total, while 5% of exhibitors were non-North American manufacturers.

“The impressive success of the first ISH North America event confirms the validity of the integrative approach of putting the kitchen and bath, plumbing, PVF, heating, and air conditioning products under one roof,” stated Roland Bleinroth, president of Messe Frankfurt. “It’s a great benefit to exhibitors who want to reach a mix of buyers representing all the key product lines crucial to their day-to-day business success. We will continue to pursue this concept and remain hopeful that other industry partners will join the trade show consolidation effort.”

“There was a certain air of excitement throughout the entire PHCC Convention and ISH North America Trade show,” said PHCC executive vice president Ike Casey. “Our members were anxious for the show to open and were ready to attend the many seminars that were offered. Next year will be even better, now that we have experience under our belt.”

PRODUCT INNOVATIONS

Over 80 manufacturers showcased their newest items in a special display. Awards were presented in six categories: kitchen and bath, plumbing and piping, heating and ventilation, software and electronic equipment, industrial products, and tools and equipment. A “Best Overall Product” award was presented to Viessmann for the company’s gas-fired, condensing, wall-mounted boiler.

The Design Plus showcase displayed products from nine European manufacturers who won awards at a prestigious design competition during the most recent ISH trade fair in Frankfurt, Germany.

“This show has been fantastic,” said Brent Westover, sales manager for Parker Hannifin Corp. “It was great as far as who attended — contractors, sales representatives, other manufacturers. It also provides a great display stage for products.”

For more information on next year’s ISH North America show in Las Vegas, NV, Oct. 1-3, visit www.messefrankfurt.com (website).

Look for more ISH North America coverage on pages 23-24 and in future issues of The News.

Publication date: 11/25/2002