The 2016 World of Asphalt Show & Conference and AGG1 Academy & Expo broke a trio of records – attendance, number of exhibitors and attendees taking part in the education – when its recent show wrapped up March 22-24 in Nashville, Tenn.

Record registered attendance of more than 9,000 is 18 percent more than the record-setting 2015 shows and 38 percent growth, compared with 2013.

Attendees came from all 50 states, nine of the 10 Canadian provinces and more than 60 other countries worldwide; 30 percent were company presidents/owners, vice presidents, general managers or chief financial officers, and all together 87 percent were in managerial roles.

“This truly is THE global gathering place for our aggregates and asphalt industries, where attendees could easily find the equipment and products to help their businesses grow and prosper,” said Rick Feltes of LafargeHolcim, AGG1 chair representing the National Stone, Sand and Gravel Association (NSSGA).

He added, “Education is also critical to stay competitive in today’s marketplace, and our record education ticket numbers underscore the value attendees place on the shows’ programs to help them succeed.”

The sold out showfloor covered a record 157,000-plus net square feet of exhibit space – a 16-percent increase, compared with the 2015 shows, with a record 500-plus exhibitors, including 150 new to the shows.

Leading manufacturers and suppliers, from large multinationals with multiple product lines to smaller firms with niche products, showcased their latest products and technologies.

“This was such an incredible opportunity to connect with so many fellow industry professionals in one place, to discuss common challenges, and learn how others have tackled similar problems,” said Rick Moore of Lehman-Roberts Company, World of Asphalt chair representing the National Asphalt Pavement Association (NAPA).

He added, “There’s a real anticipation for what’s ahead; attendees know there will be bumps, but they know this is where they find the focused education and tools to make the right choices for their companies.”

Industry-driven education programs achieved record ticket sales of more than 13,000. Attendees could take advantage of more than 115 education sessions, including the signature AGG1 Academy from NSSGA and the People, Plants and Paving Training Program from NAPA.

The American Road and Transportation Builders Association (ARTBA) contributed education sessions, and NSSGA also offered workshops on strategic sales training and basic supervisory training, and a tour of the Rogers Group Rutherford Quarry.

More than 20 allied industry, business and government groups served as official show supporting organizations. The shows are overseen by managing committees of industry leaders to ensure they meet the needs of attendees, exhibitors and all industry stakeholders.

“The shows could not achieve this success without such strong industry support; their participation helps us produce the highest-quality exhibitions that provide real value for show participants,” said Rich Prausa, show manager, Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM).  

“Exhibitors commented favorably on booth traffic and quality of attendees, and attendees were very positive about access to such a wide array of products and companies, as well as education options.”  

AGG1 is owned by NSSGA and World of Asphalt is owned by NAPA, NSSGA and AEM. AEM produces both shows, which target the business and professional-development needs of aggregates, asphalt, pavement maintenance and traffic safety industry professionals.