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The Mandalay Bay Events Center in Las Vegas is the site for the Spring Expo, with exciting education programs scheduled for Wednesday through Friday, March 26 to 28, with trade show hours on Thursday and Friday, March 27 and 28.
Wednesday's educational offerings kick off with the ever-popular "Quality Coffee Certification Program." Mike Tompkins, workshop facilitator, will teach the four fundamentals of brewing a quality cup of coffee, beginning with the history of coffee and continuing from the bean to the cup.
More than 700 operators, sales managers, sales people, members and non-members have completed the course since it was first offered six years ago. They learned everything from tasting coffees from various regions with different blends and roast profiles to how to move away from selling on price and move towards selling on quality.
PROFIT ENHANCING WORKSHOP
Wednesday afternoon begins with the not-to-be-missed workshop on "Profit Enhancing Opportunities in Vending." Bachtelle & Associates Inc. experts Brad Bachtelle and Gary Terrell will provide tips on strengthening businesses by improving operating efficiencies, product selection and merchandising, commissions and overhead expenses.
"Fathers and Sons, Mothers and Daughters — Passing the Family Business," is another hot topic for discussion on Wednesday. Families working together to operate a business face unique challenges, and Josh Patrick of Stage2 Planning, Inc., will deliver important advice to help family members in business together or those contemplating passing the torch.
KEYNOTE ADDRESSES TEAM PERFORMANCE
Thursday begins with NAMA's keynote speaker, Mark Adams, author and educator, challenging operators to develop strategies that drive better team performance and better personal relationships.
Friday's powerful education sessions include both vending and coffee service programs.
Jackie Clark's presentation: "Health, Wellness and Vending: How To Make It Work For You," evaluates all aspects of this increasingly important trend. During her session, operators will learn everything from why it is important to understand health and wellness and how they relate to accounts to how to price products and educate consumers.
Today's constantly changing electronic payment options will be explained by Michael Kasavana, Ph.D., In his session, "Cashless Vending: Moving the Industry Forward," he will consider the profitability of electronic payment systems, cashless and contactless vending.
Another favorite, the "Coffee Service Open Forum," will offer attendees the opportunity to ask coffee questions and talk with industry leaders about sales and operations. Moderator Steve Hyde of Newco Enterprises Inc. will lead discussions about brewing equipment, industry trends and the premium coffee market.
Candidates pursuing the NCE will also have the chance to sit for the NAMA Certified Executive exam. The NCE designation is awarded to seasoned industry executives and signifies accomplishment, initiative and professionalism, showcasing the best and brightest executives in the industry.
Another of the show's popular features is the VendTec Pavilion where attendees can check out the latest technology.
FREE PASS TO AQUATECH TRADE SHOW
NAMA Expo attendees will receive a special incentive. The NAMA Expo badge will grant free access to the Water Quality Association's Aquatech USA trade show March 26 to 28, also located at Mandalay Bay. Attendees will have the opportunity to participate in its education sessions, state of the industry reports and keynote speakers. Attendees can also network with exhibitors and other attendees. Visit www.wqa-aquatech.com for details.
Whatever you're looking for to help you climb the ladder to success, you're sure to find it at the Expo. For registration and further information, visit our newly redesigned Expo website, www.namaexpo.org.
author: By LyNae Schleyer