5 Things I’m looking forward to at AIMExpo
1 week, 0 days and 16 hours until I leave for this year’s AIMExpo. I’ve been slowly watching the countdown app on my iPhone since it was at 25 weeks, so to say I’m excited is a bit of an understatement. Why? Here are my top five reasons to head to Orlando in a few short days.
1. The PSBI@AIMExpo Kickoff Networking Reception
With the third annual AIMExpo, PSB is happy to bring back the Networking Reception for the second year, hosted by Manheim Specialty Auctions. I can think of no better way to kick off the festivities for AIMExpo and pick a few brains on what to expect in the following days in Orlando. Did I mention the beer, wine and appetizers are FREE? And who doesn’t want to hang out for a few hours poolside at the beautiful Rosen Centre? Exactly.
2. PSBI@AIMExpo
I’m going to pull the rookie card. What better way to continue to learn more about the industry than hear it from industry leaders themselves? With 42 sessions and 5 tracks, there’s a lot to choose from! From Sales & Marketing to Powering Profits, the PSBI@AIMExpo sets up programs I can’t wait to hear, especially several from bloggers I’ve been reading for months. This year there’s another new addition, the fifth track, the Brick and Mortar Success Guide that has a V-twin focus. Needless to say, Thursday and Friday are going to be BUSY, but well worth it.
3. Seeing the expansive expo hall for the first time
I’ve only been to a handful of industry events so far in my career, including NVP in Madison and a BRP global reveal in Nashville, but the reputation of AIMExpo prepares me for something spectacular. I’ll probably need a map and maybe some breadcrumbs to find my way to and from the PSB booth, but I’m hoping to meet a lot of friendly faces along the way. It speaks quite well of the industry that such a space this size can be completely taken over — I can’t wait to get it all on my camera!
4. Meeting new dealers and industry members face-to-face
As the “new kid” on the PSB team, it’s important for me to continue to meet new people in the powersports industry. I’m bringing business cards, and I plan to give them all out (hint, hint). If any of you are attending, which I hope you are, please stop and say hi and give me your contact information. I am constantly looking for powersports business stories and you can help me stay up to date with what’s going on in our industry.
5. The Power 50 dinner
Well, I saved the best for last. The Power 50 dinner is by far what I’m looking forward to the most. It’s so rewarding to see so many accomplished and forward-thinking dealers in one room. I know that if I’m looking for stories or what to know more about the industry, these people will definitely have some experiences to share! From designing a PowerPoint to honing my public speaking skills, I’m prepared for a great time!
Kate Swanson is the assistant editor of Powersports Business, a trade magazine for the powersports industry. She reports on the powersports industry through Powersports Business’ varied media, including in the magazine and online. She helps assemble the brand’s three-times-a-week e-news. Powersports Business is known for its exclusive national dealer surveys, in-depth industry analysis, Power 50 dealership honors program and dealership conference, Powersports Business Institute @ AIMExpo.
Contact: kswanson@powersportsbusiness.com
Website: www.powersportsbusiness.com