“Forging these prosperous partnerships takes dedication, focus and an investment of time. The format of the meeting we’ve constructed provides ASA a new beginning, an opening to take chances, be bold, move beyond the status quo and set new standards for the industry,” said Mike Adelizzi, ASA’s executive vice president.
Many vendors agree and have committed to hosting gaming booths at the Industry Interchange, participating in the conference booth programs or sponsoring the convention to show their support for this newly structured agenda.
“With all the challenges facing our industry in this economy, this year’s ASA Convention is more pertinent than ever,” statedMark Wittington, senior vice president of sales forElkay Manufacturing Company. “The ability to be in Washington, D.C., and ASA’s arrangements to gain access to our individual members of Congress to highlight the issues facing all of us, is a unique opportunity, and I hope participation among all members will be very high this year.”
“It’s always important for us to meet with our customers, and ASA’s annual convention has become one of the primary venues for us to renew old acquaintances and forge new ones,” sharedFred Vattimo, director of corporate advertising forBradford White. “We’re excited that the Wholesaler and Vendor Conference Appointments and the Industry Interchange this year will provide a one-on-one opportunity in a fun and relaxed atmosphere.”
Dennis Broderick,InSinkEratorvice president of wholesale sales, made this point, “As long-term supporters of ASA and its initiatives, we at InSinkErator look forward to a revitalized convention and new program format. The convention remains an extremely important function for ASA, and we believe the leadership role it takes in education and networking is meaningful for wholesalers and manufacturers alike.”
This feeling is shared by manufacturers that specialize in the PVF industry through membership in ASA’s Industrial Piping Division. “NetworkASA 2009 will be another milestone and a step forward in creating a conference that is conducive to maximizing our return as a member,” saidLarry Dildine, president of thePhoenix Forge Group. “As a pipe fittings and component manufacturer, we are looking forward to the 2009 program that presents further enhancements in networking opportunities that should far exceed the cost of attending the conference. The key to obtaining value for our business is participation and involvement. In a tough economic environment, it is more important than ever to attend this convention to maintain and develop new business relationships. Wholesalers and vendors will benefit since it is the most industry exposure for the least amount of cost.”
“It would be an understatement in today’s economic world if I didn’t state that Anvil is hunkered down, like most industry manufacturers, in an effort to keep market share as the top objective, but also gain share as well,” addedJohn Martin, vice president, national accounts. “How do you do that? First and foremost, in my opinion, is that you have to stay in front of the customer. Attending the ASA Convention and participating in as many events as possible is a great place to do just that. It is what you make of it, indeed, but you just never know unless you keep showing up.”
Watch your mail for the updated version of theNetworkASA 2009: POWERbrochure, which includes expanded program details and information on how to participate in the Industry Interchange and the Wholesaler and Vendor Conference Appointments.
