The Northeast Regional Carwash Convention’s (NRCC) move to the renovated Trump Taj Mahal in Atlantic City, Oct. 18-20, was a grand slam, according to Show Facilitator Julie Stanton. “This was our best NRCC in our 21-year history,” said Stanton. “We had a great mix of attendees and vendors and 25 new exhibitors. And with our new venue, I expect that number to grow.”
And grow the show did in 2010! Now at 251 exhibits (10 percent above last year’s number), 60,000 square feet of exhibit space and more than 1450 attendees, it is the largest regional trade show, according to Stanton. “We will continue to grow, present exceptional educational programming and listen to our vendors and their needs, she said. “Just look out for the 2011 show!”
This year’s show theme, “Soaring Again,” echoed throughout the exhibit hall and educational programs, according to Show Chairman Dave DuGoff of the Mid-Atlantic Carwash Association, this year’s host. “I felt a lot of optimism throughout the show,” he said. “After several difficult years, operators are ready to invest in their businesses again because they have a gut feeling that our industry is solid, the service we provide has perceived value, and it’s only a matter of getting a few sunny weekends once in awhile.”
Perceived value is also something the NRCC show brings to its attendees, he said. “Our full convention package is $250 and includes the Welcoming Reception, breakfast and lunch on Tuesday and breakfast on Wednesday as well as the Ritz Carlton program, the seminars, keynote and the show floor,” said DuGoff. It’s a great value, great food and a great deal!”
We’re All High Rollers
The show was kicked off with a spectacular Welcoming Reception in the exclusive high roller Signature Suite on the 49th floor of the Taj Tower. Sponsored by ICS, this meet and greet included an array of heavy hors d’oeuvres, a bar and much mingling by a group of more than 150. The views of the Atlantic weren’t bad either!
From the show’s lead educational program put on by the Ritz Carlton on legendary customer service to the marketing program featuring examples of how social media can boost volumes, to the panel discussion and slide presentation on how operators are reinvesting in their sites, the vibe was certainly upbeat and the bar set high. “This was the best NRCC I think we’ve ever attended,” said Karen Barbalunga of Barbalunga Enterprises in Pittsfield, MA. “The quality of the educational programming and the huge show floor was very impressive.”
Another show highlight was the keynote presented by Captain Scott Shields of Bear Search and Rescue and Joseph Hudak, a FDNY Paramedic Instructor on their experiences at 9/11 and Katrina. The team brought their fearless rescue dog Theodore to the presentation. These gentlemen shared their experiences on how to overcome adversity through teamwork and leadership; tenets we can certainly use at the wash.
Award Recipients included the MCA’s Bill Bascom of Car Lovers in Charlottesville, VA, who received the 2010 Most Distinguished Person Award for his tireless efforts on behalf of the MCA and carwash industry. The show’s NRCC Hall of Fame Award was presented to Doug Rieck of Manahawkin Magic Wash in Manahawkin, NJ. Doug has been instrumental in the evolution of the NRCC and is a true carwash pioneer.
Although there was a little bit of a gamble with moving the event’s venue after seven years at the Borgata, the NRCC board is thrilled with their decision. “There were a lot of factors involved in moving the show but we wanted a more cost-effective venue for our attendees and vendors, and we wanted all of our vendors to be on the same show floor,” said Suzanne Stansbury, NRCC board member. “We were able to accomplish these things by moving back to the Taj and providing our attendees with more dining options and the ability to leave the hotel without hailing a cab. We couldn’t be happier with the move and look forward to more growth, innovation and top-notch education in 2011.”
The 2011 NRCC is October 3-5 at the Trump Taj Mahal in Atlantic City. The New England Carwash Association is the host. For more information visit nrccshow.com or call 800/868-8590.
