Mark S. Kuhar

What do we have to do to get a piece of the action? That's the question I have for the organizers of ConExpo-Con/Agg. I bet you're wondering what I mean by "a piece of the action." I mean, a little recognition at the next show.

When ConExpo-Con/Agg 2011 rears its head, I would like to see a portable-processing pavilion, a specific place at the show where the manufacturers of portable plants, and other products for mobile materials production, can be grouped in one place, allowing the growing demographic of producers who choose to work on the go the opportunity to easily consider, compare and contrast products.

The logistics of creating such a pavilion, I admit, would be tough. The outdoor lot would be an obvious place, but some manufacturers prefer to be inside and not risk the weather. Also, the larger companies that make a full line of products typically want their portable plants to be shown along with their other products, and not necessarily as a standalone representation of their company.

But as a concept, it makes sense: sort of a show within a show that eliminates the half-hour commute it sometimes takes to get from one booth to the next.

What would be the first step in turning this idea into reality? We would first need a united front from the manufacturers themselves. Show management will not respond without an organized request from a large number of companies.

We would also need the cooperation of the associations that serve portable producers, namely the National Demolition Association and the Construction Materials Recycling Association.

The third leg of the stool belongs to the trade press. There are, by my estimate, at least 25 magazines that cater at least in part to portable producers and accept advertising from portable-plant manufacturers.

If we all join forces, there could be an exciting new dimension to future ConExpo-Con/Agg shows.

Mark S. Kuhar
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Past Winner:
Robert F. Boger Award for Editorials
Construction Writers Association

Member:
Construction Writers Association
American Society of Business Press Editors
Society of Professional Journalists