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ISA 2008 Industrial Supply Conference and Trade Fair Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)

faqsFor complete details on the ISA Industrial Supply Conference and Trade Fair, you’ve come to the right place!

Please contact headquarters with any additional questions. For registration questions, email isaregistration@fernley.com and for all other conference inquiries please email info@isapartners.org or call us at (215) 320-3862, Toll-free: (866) 460-2360
Fax: (215) 564-2175, Toll-free: (877) 460-2365.

Industrial Supply Association
100 North 20th Street
4th Floor
Philadelphia, PA 19103
info@isapartners.org

Here are Your Questions….Answered!

GENERAL INFORMATION - back to top


REGISTRATION INFORMATION


TRADE FAIR INFORMATION


ON-SITE DETAILS

 

Your Questions….Answered!

GENERAL INFORMATION


What is the Industrial Supply Conference and Trade Fair (ISCTF)? - back to top
The ISA Industrial Supply Conference and Trade Fair (ISCTF) is the largest gathering of distributors, manufacturers, service providers, and independent manufacturers’ representatives in the industrial supply industry.

The 2008 event will build on that success offering a balance of educational sessions and opportunities for face-to-face business meetings. The mission of the ISA Industrial Supply Conference and Trade Fair is to provide attendees with the resources needed to enhance sales, reduce costs, and increase profitability. We’ll achieve this with a combination of informal networking, structured meetings, and educational forums.

What are the benefits of participating? - back to top
The ISCTF represents a once-a-year opportunity for education, networking, and business meetings with your colleagues in the MROP channel. This is the place to:

Connect with Industry Partners - Meet with business partners and make new contacts – all of the industry stakeholders will be represented!
Build Your Network - The Trade Fair features pre-scheduled meetings and informal networking opportunities.
Expand Your Knowledge - The expanded Conference track program was custom designed for the industrial supply industry. Original research conducted on issues specific to the industrial supply chain will be unveiled here, and attendees will have the advantage of hearing it first.

If you want to buy, sell, grow, learn, discover, connect, network, problem solve, troubleshoot, recruit, market, introduce, meet, and do whatever it takes to help your business reduce costs and increase efficiencies and profits, this is the place to be in June, 2008.

For more information on the Benefits of Attending, click here.

Who attends the ISCTF? Must my company be a member of ISA to attend? - back to top

The ISCTF is open to suppliers, distributors, service providers and independent manufacturers’ reps serving the MROP industry. Company leadership, sales personnel, and operations managers can all benefit by attending. Click here to view a list of registrants from 2007 Attendees.

The ISCTF is open to members and non-members (prospective members). However, please note that you can attend one year only as a non-member. If you attended as a non-member/prospect in 2007, you must join ISA in order to participate in 2008. Non-members/prospects are encouraged to attend the 2008 event, but will have to join ISA in order to attend a future annual Conference and Trade Fair.

To Learn More about ISA and Join, Click here.

What is the anticipated size/attendance for the 2008 event? - back to top
In 2007 the ISCTF attracted almost 2000 delegates (plus spouses/companions), representing over 685 companies serving the industrial supply distribution channel. Company attendance breakdown was roughly 50% suppliers, 35% distributors, 10% independent manufacturers’ reps, and 5% industry service providers.

In 2008 we are planning for growth in attendance as word continues to spreads about the unparalleled value of this educational and networking event.

What is the difference between the Conference and Trade Fair portions of this event? - back to top
The “Conference” refers to the Monday, June 2 luncheons with key presentations for IMR's, SSEM, and safety and technology lunch and learns. On Tuesday, June, 3 the educational speaker sessions consist of the four track program sessions. Networking opportunities will abound as you meet and greet fellow attendees during the breaks, the golf tournament (if registered), and General Session.

The “Trade Fair” includes the two-day booth program held on Sunday, June 1 and Monday, June 2. Manufacturers/Suppliers will host the booths on Sunday and the program will run from 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM. Distributors and Independent Manufacturers’ Reps will host booths on Tuesday, June 2, and the program will run from 7:30 AM – 12:30 PM. Service Providers will host a booth on both days. Master Distributors can host a booth on both Sunday and Monday or solely on Monday.

Schedule of Events

Where will the ISCTF events take place? - back to top
This year all ISCTF events will take place at the Hyatt Regency O'Hare and the Donald E. Stephens Conference Center across the street from the Hyatt. Click here for information on Hyatt Regency O'Hare

How can I learn more about the speaker programs and topics? - back to top
The ISCTF features a renowned speaker line up, addressing the most current topics for the MROP Distribution channel.

Speakers and Program

REGISTRATION INFORMATION

Can I attend just one portion of the event – just the Conference portion or just the Trade Fair? - back to top
There is no “Trade Fair only” registration option. Anyone wishing to attend or participate in the Trade Fair on Sunday and/or Monday must pay the full delegate registration fee.

There is an “Conference Educational Session ” registration option. These registrants can attend all educational programs and social events on Tuesday, June 3. However, they can not attend the Trade Fair on June 1 and 2. The “Conference Educational Session” registration option allows you to bring additional delegates from your company to take advantage of the educational offerings. Please keep in mind that every company must have one registrant registered at full price of $550 (by April 18) or $605 (after April 18).

For registration options and details, click here.

Is advance registration required or can I wait and register on-site? - back to top
On-site registration will be an option. However, advance registration is most beneficial. As soon as you register, your company contact information will be submitted into the FastMatch electronic appointment scheduling system, which attendees will use to make meeting appointments for the Trade Fair. Your name will not be entered into FastMatch and you can not make appointments until you register, so be sure to register early!
Click here to learn more about FastMatch.

In addition, registering by April 18 will ensure your listing on the website and in the printed program, which is sent to all attendees in advance. This offers excellent exposure and encourages others to contact you in advance.

What is my cost to participate in the ISCTF? What does my registration fee include? - back to top
Every registrant is responsible for their own travel costs and hotel accommodations. In addition, registration is required in order to participate in ISCTF. Registration fees are as follows:

Early Bird Full Delegate: $550 – includes attendance at all conference educational and social functions, as well as the Trade Fair booth programs and lunches on June 1 and 2. After April 18, registration fees will be $605.

“Conference Educational Session” Delegate - $175 – includes attendance at all educational and social functions. Conference Educational Session delegates can not attend or participate in the Trade Fair on Sunday and Monday. Education only registration is available only to additional delegates; each company must have at least one full delegate registration.

Spouse/Guest $0 – Includes the Opening Reception on Sunday, June 1 and the Monday, June 2 General Session with a performance by the Capitol Steps. The Spouses/Guests can not attend the educational track programs, the luncheons, or the Trade Fair. Spouses/Guests must be registered to attend ISCTF events.

To register online, click here.

Can I see who else is attending? - back to top
The updated list of registrants will be posted on the website every week. Click here to see the most current listing.

Who from my company should attend? - back to top
Company leadership, sales personnel, and operations managers will all benefit from attending. The educational program is divided into three tracks – leadership, sales/marketing, and operations, so your company personnel can increase the benefit for your company by sending appropriate personnel to different sessions. If some delegates from your company attend only the education portion on Tuesday, June 3, you can register them at the “Conference Educational Session” fee of $175.

Can I bring a spouse or guest? - back to top
Plan to bring your spouse or guest. While registration is free it is important to complete the spouse/guest registration information on the Registration Form so that a badge can be generated for your spouse/guest. The spouse/guest badge will allow access to the Opening Reception (June 1) and the General Session with a performance by The Capitol Steps (June 2).  Spouses/Guests, unfortunately, are not invited to attend the educational track programs, the luncheons or the Trade Fair. These events are specifically designed for the conference registrants. For information on spouse/guests activities at ISCTF, click here.  

How do I register? - back to top
Register online by clicking here. Registering online is the quickest and most convenient way to register. You are welcome to print out a registration form and mail or fax it to ISA headquarters. Full payment by check or credit card is due at time of registration.

How do I secure hotel reservations? - back to top
All individuals are responsible for securing their own hotel reservations. ISA has a room block at the Hyatt Regency O'Hare.
Click here for information on hotel rates and reservation options.

What if I have to make a change to my registration (cancel, replacement, addition, etc)? - back to top
Written registration cancellations received at ISA headquarters by May 15 will receive a full refund, less a $100 per delegate cancellation processing fee. After May 15, no refunds will be issued.

Changes or replacements can be sent to isaregistration@fernley.com. Additional attendees must complete new registration on-line or fax forms to 215-564-2175.

How will I confirm that I am registered correctly? - back to top
Every individual registered for the ISCTF will get an individual confirmation. Check your confirmation to make sure that all information is correct. Contact headquarters with questions.

TRADE FAIR INFORMATION

How large is the Trade Fair? - back to top
The 2007 Conference Booth Program consisted of 338 Manufacturer/Service Providers booths on one day and 304 Distributor/Service Provider booths on the other day.

We are projecting growth of about 10% for the Trade Fair this year.

What are the Trade Fair Hours? - back to top
The Manufacturer/Supplier hosted booth program will run from 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM on Sunday, June 1.
The Distributor/Independent Manufacturer's Rep hosted booth program will run from 8:30 AM – 12:30 PM on Monday, June 2.

Who will be hosting booths on what days? - back to top
Suppliers/Manufacturers will host booths on Sunday, June 1.

Distributors and Independent Manufacturers Reps will host booths on Monday, June 2.

In addition to the Monday Trade Fair booth program, Master Distributors are also invited to host a booth on Sunday.

Service Providers are invited to host a booth on Sunday and Monday.

Trade Show Policies

What are the Exhibit Booth Rental Fees?

Manufacturer/Supplier on June 1:  10x10 Booth = $650    
Additional 10x10 booths are $265

Distributors and Independent Manufacturers Reps on June 1.  There is no cost for booth rental for distributors and independent manufacturers’ representatives.

Master Distributors on June 1:  10x10 Booth = $650. Additional 10x10 booths are $265.

Service Providers on June 1 and 2: A one time rental fee of $315 will be charged for member Service Providers for both days. Additional booths are $135. 

Non-member Service Providers are welcome to exhibit on June 1 and 2 at a booth rental fee of $650 for a 10x10 booth. Additional booth is $265.  

Service Providers only pay a one day fee but exhibit on both days.

Do I have any input on my booth placement on the Trade Fair floor? - back to top
Suppliers/Manufacturers will select their own booths for the Trade Fair Booth Program. Registration and booth payment must be received to complete booth selection process.
Click here to go to the online booth selection program

Distributors/Independent Manufacturers’ Reps will have booths assigned, but can indicate their top three competitors. Every effort will be made to separate competitions.
Service Provider booths will be assigned.

How do I ensure that I meet with everyone I want to see at the Trade Fair? - back to top
You are responsible for your own scheduling. The FastMatch electronic scheduling system makes it easy. When you register for the ISCTF, your information will be entered into the FastMatch system. You will be asked to designate a contact for your FastMatch scheduling. Go to the FastMatch link and follow the easy steps to make request and respond to appointments.

What opportunities will I have to meet with new contacts that I discover at the ISCTF? - back to top
The Trade Fair hours include some open time, not included on the FastMatch appointment schedule. The first two hours of the Trade Fair on Sunday, June 1 will be open time and one hour on Monday, June 2 will also be open time.

How do I learn more about the exhibitors at the Trade Fair? - back to top
You can find complete details about Manufacturers/Suppliers hosting booths on Sunday, June 1 when you click here to see the floor plan. When making their booth selection, manufacturers are encouraged to submit detailed information about products, show specials, brochures, etc. This information will be available for all visitors to the site.

To find out what distributors are exhibiting, visit the FastMatch section by clicking here.

What can I do to increase my exposure and promote my products at the ISCTF? - back to top
ISA makes it easy:

  • Take an ad in the printed program, which will be sent to all registrants. Delegates keep this booklet with them and refer to it often during and after the event. The cost is $500 for a full page ad, $300 for a half-page ad, and $650 for a high-visibility divider-page in the printed program. Click here for an advertising order form.
  • Submit information for a poster in the “Hall of Innovation” –The entranceway to the Trade Fair floor will feature boards promoting news from exhibitors – announcements about new personnel, new products, new innovations, new technology, new expansions, etc. Submit your information to ISA headquarters by the deadline and we will prepare a sign for your approval and display for both  days of the Trade Fair. The cost is $125/entry.
    Click here to download and print a form for the Hall of Innovation
  • ISA members can sign up to sponsor one or more events. Various levels of sponsorship are available and sponsors will be recognized with signs, notations in the printed program, badge ribbons, and other concessions. Platinum and silver sponsors will get comp ads in the program. Click here for details on sponsorship.
  • Safety suppliers –sign up for a booth in the Safety Pavilion of the Trade Fair. Click here for the booth layout to select a booth in that section. NOTE: You can purchase more than one booth; one in the safety pavilion and one on the floor.


What is included with my booth rental? - back to top
Space rental includes a 8’ high back wall and 3’ side rails, carpeting, wastebasket, pipe and drape, and a two-line 7” x 44” identification sign. 10” x 10” booths will include one 6’ draped table and four chairs.

When can I set up my booth and tear down my booth? - back to top
Move in for Sunday exhibitors – Saturday, May 31, 11:30 AM – 4:30 PM
Move-out for Sunday exhibitors – Sunday, June 1, 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM

Move in for Monday exhibitors – Sunday, June 1, 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Move out for Monday exhibitors – Monday, June 2, 12:30 PM – 2:30 PM

Once I sign up to participate, where can I obtain information on setting up my booth, ordering additional furniture, shipping, etc.? - back to top
Upon receipt of payment, you can complete and submit your specific exhibit needs using the

Basic Exhibitor Kit | Extras Exhibitor Kit

ON-SITE DETAILS

What is my admission to the ISCTF? - back to top
Your badge is your admission to all events. Badges for all pre-registered attendees will be sent in advance. Bring your badge with you to the ISCTF in Chicago, IL.

How do I know where to go for the events, what times things start, etc? - back to top
All registrants will receive a printed program book prior to the event, with all specifics on activities and a complete list of registrants.

What is the dress code for ISCTF? - back to top

June temperatures in Chicago will range from lows in the 60’s to highs in the high 80’s. Pack accordingly and don’t forget the sunscreen! Dress for all ISCTF functions is business casual.

In general, Chicago is a very casual place, and comfortable dress is the norm. Most restaurants do not have dress codes, however, if you are planning on a nice dinner at one of the more upscale restaurants you could be required to have a coat. Your best bet for clothing is simple: pants, comfortable skirts, T-shirts. If you are planning on seeing a show business casual is normally adequate.

And the question you were afraid to ask….Is it all work and no play? - back to top

No way! While business will be booming during this four day event, there will be some opportunities to add some fun and pleasure into your trip. The YEF Golf Tournament will be held Sunday, May 31 at the Indian Lake Resort in Bloomingdale, IL. Everyone is invited, but pre-registration and pre-payment is required. Registration Form

In addition, there is much to see and do in Chicago, including fine dining, premier shopping, flagship stores of high end department stores, and much more.
For more information on our host city, click here.