NDC Exhibition Bigger than Ever
The NDC International Exhibition, held June 8-10, in Lake Buena Vista, Fla., was the first combined meeting for NDC’s medical and dental distributors and vendors. Over 1,200 attendees came together for three days of education, exhibition and entertainment. The IE’09 Opening General Session was opened by NDC President and CEO Mark Seitz, welcoming attendees and sharing NDC’s vision. Ted Almon, chairman of NDC Board of Directors and president of Claflin Company echoed many of Seitz’s remarks by stating, “The NDC value proposition is even more relevant in difficult economic conditions.” Almon also reviewed the NDC healthcare mission and initiated the topic of healthcare reform. Senator William H. Frist, M.D., was the Keynote Speaker sponsored by Quidel Corporation.
Some statistics Frist presented:
- America spends more on healthcare than any other country.
- Americans are becoming less healthy compared to people in other countries.
- America is ranked 25th in infant mortality.
- Health services accounts for only 10 percent of the impact on length of life (genetics and behavioral factors have more relevance).
Frist provided insight to the projected Obama healthcare reform initiatives. The challenges facing the administration include addressing the coverage of over 47 million uninsured. Prevention and information technology will be key components to reducing costs in the future.
Educational breakouts
The 2009 International Exhibition offered three days of education, with a wide variety of topics available within each business discipline (Operations, Marketing, Sales, Executive, Sales Administration). Highlights included:
Show floor
Over 120 medical manufacturers and 60 dental manufacturers exhibited on the show floor. Medical and dental distributor reps were encouraged to explore both sides of the show floor to prospect for additional cross-over business opportunities.
This year’s trade show included a record number of show specials and prizes. Over $3 million of show floor orders were received, NDC said. New on the show floor this year was the “Lunch and Learn” sessions, sponsored and presented by Inverness Medical and Cardiac Science.
Awards and fireworks
NDC recognized its top performers at an awards dinner, held at the Epcot® World ShowPlace. The ceremony was presented by Dave Rose, VP of member services, and Lori Paulson, VP of dental programs and marketing. After the Awards ceremony, attendees were treated to a front-row seat for a fireworks show and after-dinner cordials, sponsored by Crosstex.
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