Medtrade Spring takes on dual role

LAS VEGAS - By co-locating with the Environments for Aging Expo & Conference, Medtrade Spring 2017 is essentially doubling its offerings to attendees at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center in Las Vegas, Feb. 27-March 1.

The inaugural side-by-side exposition makes sense from several angles, says Group Show Director Kevin Gaffney—both shows are owned by Emerald Expositions, there is synergy between them and having them both in the same place provides convenience for all involved.

The EFA conference, a three-day educational summit, has been a primary resource for architects and designers whose focus is creating functional and attractive living environments that meet the needs of an aging population. Attendees can network with peers and learn about the latest innovations in senior-friendly design for long-term and residential care settings.

While convenience is certainly a factor in the dual display, “the co-location is really all about expanding educational opportunities for attendees at both shows,” Gaffney said.

As of mid-January, registration for Medtrade Spring continued on the same track as last year and Gaffney says “obviously we hope to see an uptick.” Yet he understands that providers are feeling a financial pinch from lower reimbursement rates and audits, so organizers are doing everything possible to make the trip worthwhile.

“Like the attendees who make the trip to our shows, we are here for the long haul, and we are determined to improve the trade show experience and adapt to changing times,” Gaffney said.

Medtrade Spring attendees with an Expo or Conference pass will have access to the EFA Expo floor during show hours and attendees with a conference badge will have access to six specially selected EFA educational sessions. Prior to the start of Medtrade Spring, prospective attendees may contact any Medtrade Spring exhibitor and get a free Expo pass, Gaffney said.

Returning favorites

The “Ideas in Caretail” section is back on the show floor this year. Sponsored by VGM Retail Services, with support from KC Fixtures, the area features point-of-purchase and small space displays that are either vendor-supplied, or racks that can be filled with products to create a custom POP display.

“These options are also great for businesses that lack retail space but can benefit by adding a product line or creating a display with complementary products,” Gaffney said.

The popular New Product Pavilion is also back. Attendees can visit this area on the show floor to get a first look at the many new products being offered by exhibitors, and then visit their booths for more information.

A product focus

Ultimately, the entire Expo floor emphasizes products, both new and familiar, Gaffney said.

“And while we love the 'caretailing' concept, there are also legions of products that fit the traditional Medicare, Medicaid, or insurance model,” he said. “All of these products are represented under one roof.”

Overall, Medtrade Spring has a vibrancy that makes it a unique experience for attendees looking to get immersed in all the facets of the HME field, Gaffney said.

“There is no other place where HME providers can get exposure to so much product-intensive information, while also being able to put hands on the products,” he said. “You can't do that by looking at a manufacturer website.”