Trade Shows

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It is hard to believe that it is almost time for the AAEP Convention again. I have been doing some consulting work with equine companies over the last several months and it is interesting how important the trade show at AAEP is for both small and large equine companies. A lot goes into preparing materials and the commercial booths for these very important trade shows. Generally, this is the time when new products are first launched.

I can remember a time when AAEP did not have a trade show and how controversial it was as to whether to allow commercial exhibitors at the Convention. Certainly, these commercial exhibitors have become an integral part of the Convention, as well as at other meetings. Not only are they a source of revenue for AAEP and serve as educational partners, but they also provide a great attraction for equine practitioners. Practitioners have come to rely on the trade show as a spot to find the “latest and greatest” that is being introduced to the marketplace, as well as a great format for meeting old friends and colleagues. My greatest difficulty is being able to walk down all the aisles in the limited time available. Generally, we walk a few feet, see an old friend or colleague, and use this time to catch up.

I suspect this year's AAEP Convention in Orlando, Florida, will be bigger and better because the program is quite attractive and the list of exhibitors is impressive. Orlando is a great location for a winter meeting and possibly a family vacation. I hope to see many of you at AAEP and I hope to personally thank the authors that have submitted articles during the past year, as well as the tremendous number of reviewers that have assisted in evaluating the articles that we publish.