Wilsonville, Oregon (September 2, 2014) - The 2014 Farwest Trade Show concluded its three-day run (Aug. 21 to 23, 2014) with exhibitors and attendees in an upbeat mood. While attendance did not meet raised expectations, falling just shy of last year, the mood of the exhibitors was upbeat, the quality of attendees was high, and the show added 50 new exhibitors.
Show organizers have done market research and will use the results to develop new ways to improve and broaden
the show’s appeal. The goal is to attract more nursery industry buyers, decision-makers and even organizations to Portland for the show.
This year’s show included a keynote presentation by globally-known horticulture expert John Stanley and appearances by others, including Dr. Michael Dirr, Dr. Allan Armitage and Kelly Norris. All gave well-received talks on how to point the green industry in a more innovative direction and embrace new opportunities.
The 2014 Farwest Trade Show also featured the debut of Equipment Innovation Day, which provided an opportunity for those attending to see innovative nursery equipment demonstrated in the fi eld, and make head-to-head comparisons.
For the first time, show visitors also had the chance to walk the show floor with Dirr, Armitage and Norris for a personal tour of the newest plant selections on the market. This feature was particularly well received.
Next year, more innovation is in store at Farwest. For the first time, woody ornamental plant trials will take place during the show, in conjunction with the establishment of a new trial garden in Aurora, Oregon. For 2015, the International Trials Conference will take place during show week, as will a native plant experts’ gathering. All of this is intended to support the largest nursery trade show on the West Coast, and one that supports the industry back through education, advocacy and innovation.
Planning and marketing efforts are already underway for the 2015 Farwest Trade Show, which will take place next August 27 to 29 at the Oregon Convention Center.