The International Business Music Association (IBMA) and the On Hold Messaging Association (OHMA) held their first co-located Conference and Expo on April 13-16, 2011, at the Sheraton Chalet Westport, St. Louis, MO.
"It was all about economics, convenience and value." explained Bud Waters, Executive Director, IBMA. "While the two associations represent parallel markets, both the IBMA and OHMA share common threads.
With the large overlap of vendors for both, it made it much more economical to exhibit at one expo than two. The dealers share a similar customer base, so paths to market have similar techniques.
The facilities were excellent, room rates were low and a larger group of exhibitors and dealers attended. The conference was expanded to four days to accomodate both associations unique business activities and to offer a full compliment of workshops and training classes for sales, technical, and business practices common to both member groups.
"It's no secret, funds are tight for both the manufacturers and the dealers. We wanted to give everyone more for less," said Allen Gaughf, Chairman, OHMA . "St. Louis is drive-able for many of our dealers and the lower costs saved money for our exhibitors. The location is a convenient shuttle ride from the airport, close to many area attractions and April in St. Louis was a great time to be there."
"We saw this as a win-win for both our dealer members and our vendors." said Gaughf. "It's exciting to consider the expanded opportunities co-locating our expos brings to everyone involved. This combined conference and expo made it possible to increase our value and further our purpose with our members".
More details regarding the success of the co-located Convention Expo will follow in a regular monthly newsletter.
Keynote Speakers
This year, there were TWO keynote speakers. Both speakers spoke to the entire group of IBMA and MOHA Members:
