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TriMega’s Took National Convention to New Heights at Elevate 2008
Event Sets New Attendance Records
TriMega reached new heights at their National Convention and Tradeshow, Elevate 2008, which took place at the Red Rock Casino, Resort & Spa last month. The record setting event drew total attendance of 1000 people – an all-time high – and boasted, among other things, a tradeshow which featured the latest products from over 110 office products suppliers, wholesalers and business partners.
Feedback on the event has been overwhelming positive. “The theme of ‘elevate’ was very fitting, as TriMega definitely raised the bar once again” said Bill Clark of Fellowes one of the show’s exhibitors. “This year’s event delivered in all the important areas – and no detail was left untouched. The show blended the best in networking, education and fun,” he commented. “It was also a superb order writing show for us. We doubled last year’s show orders,” he concluded.
The event hotel, The Red Rock Resort, scored high marks from all attendees. Dick Dodge, Vice Chairman of the TriMega Board remarked, “The Red Rock Hotel was a hit. I can’t remember the last time a convention hotel contributed so significantly to the quality of networking, energy and overall atmosphere of the event,” he continued. “It really was an ideal home for this event”.
From the opening session through to the exciting finale event, it was easy to find plenty of reasons why TriMega dealers were so enthusiastic. In his welcoming remarks to members at the opening session, TriMega Chairman Foss Jones described an organization that has had very positive 2008 accomplishments and momentum despite challenging economic times. He expressed his excitement for the bright future for the group and its independent dealer members particularly based on the opportunities presented by the present challenges of the national players. “What was especially encouraging at Elevate, was the overall mood of the attendees. Dealers were upbeat, positive and optimistic about their future and the future of the group. In these tough times, this attitude is especially refreshing,” Jones commented.
Some Highlights from the opening address delivered by TriMega President Charlie Cleary included:
- Direct purchases were up 12% in 2007 to $400 million and are on track so far this year to post an 8% gain.
- Rebate growth is even stronger. After paying out record rebates of $29.1 million last year, TriMega is forecasting current year distributions will reach $32 million, up 11%
- Despite the need concern about the general economy going forward, he offered a strongly optimistic forecast for TriMega members and the independent dealer community in general based on the “Staples’ acquisition of Corporate Express has created the greatest opportunity for independents to gain market share since the first Staples store opened for business in 1986,” he told the group, predicting that an estimated $2 billion in business will be “up for grabs” as a result.
Other event highlights included:
- A very funny keynote address by comedian turned motivational speaker Steve Rizzo (aka “the Attitude Adjuster”). Steve’s address delivered inspirational keys to achieving success with an unstoppable attitude for life. It was entertaining, inspiring, hilarious and on target.
- A powerful lineup of speakers hosting seminars and discussions on topics covering critical business issues, growth opportunities for dealers, and personal development topics for all attendees.
- An intense, high-energy one-day tradeshow in which Elevate 2008 exhibitors wrote a record $4M in show orders during the day. The tradeshow was followed by a prize reception where thousands of dollars worth of prizes were awarded, capped of with a HON sponsored 2009 Jeep Wrangler awarded to winner, Wayne Gonzalez of Gonzalez Office Products in Austin, TX.
- An exciting and unique “Sock Hop & Bowl” party, which took place the hotel’s own 72 lane high end bowling alley, Red Rock Lanes, sponsored by United Stationers.
Michael Morris, VP of Marketing for TriMega commented, “We were delighted with the turnout, energy and overall results of Elevate 2008. To be able to host our largest and most successful convention ever – in these times, speaks volumes to the resiliency, determination and drive of our independent dealers. Our goal with Elevate 2008 was to reach new heights, and we certainly did that last month in Las Vegas. Still, we look forward to setting new records in 2009 and beyond.”
| Seminar Presentations now posted! |
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Photos from TriMega's Elevate 2008 are are now posted! Click here to view them now! |
| Click here to download the Room Reimbursement Form |
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Wednesday, October 22
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Thursday, October 23
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Friday, October 24
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