It’s almost always sunny in Phoenix

PHOENIX, Ariz. – Temperatures for Medtrade West at the Phoenix Convention Center, April 4-6, are almost certain to be milder than last year, but the business atmosphere promises to be just as hot, says Show Director York Schwab. 

“Phoenix was definitely a welcome change from the bustle and expense of Las Vegas,” Schwab said. “We did have complaints about the mid-July heat, but we’re now back to our normal spring timing and the average temperatures will be low 60s to low 80s. It should be quite pleasant.” 

Among Schwab’s priorities in putting together a worthwhile, meaningful show this year is delivering on attendees’ craving for knowledge. 

That’s why show officials have put together a diverse education program that’s designed to offer “something for everyone,” Schwab said, including the AAHomecare update on government health care policy, an Educational Advisory Board seminar series on topics covering legal, billing, managed care, sales and marketing, and a dedicated operations track. 

“Knowledge comes from exhibitors, educational sessions and all-important face-to-face networking,” he said. “Those are the priorities, and we will deliver on those priorities.” 

Schwab says a change of scenery can also provide the perfect learning environment. 

“It’s important to step away and find new perspectives,” he said. “It’s hard to work on the business when your day is spent in the business. Attendance takes time, money and effort, but attendees are adamant about their experiences at Medtrade.” 

There needs to be time to unwind, too, and Preview Night, during which attendees are invited to a pre-show sneak peek full of recreational activities, will return this year. 

With two Medtrades (East and West) under his belt as show director, Schwab says he has learned a lot about what it takes to put on a high-caliber trade show – especially during a festering pandemic. 

“Experience always helps – I had been to many shows as an account executive, but last year’s experience as show director gave me more exposure to the attendee side of things,” he said. “There are many details and moving parts and those need to be right for both exhibitors and attendees. For the upcoming West show, we’re excited. The grip of the pandemic is beginning to loosen and we’re moving in the right direction.”