AWFS Expects Largest International Fair Attendance

CITY OF COMMERCE, CA -- Executives from the Association of Woodworking & Furnishings Suppliers (AWFS), a national trade association in the United States representing companies that supply the home and commercial furnishings industry, are set to attend two highly acclaimed international trade expositions in Germany this month — Interzum and Ligna. AWFS leadership hopes attending these important global industry events will help increase international awareness and attendance at the AWFS Fair, a woodworking machinery and supply event in the U.S.

“AWFS Vegas continues to build international prestige as more attendees, exhibitors and journalists experience what we have to offer,” said Angelo Gangone, AWFS vice president of trade shows. “Attendance throughout Europe has risen sharply in 2007 and we hope to share the many exciting new programs offered with the participants of Interzum and Ligna.”

International attendance at AWFS Vegas increased 134% in 2005 and pre-registration suggests a similar triple digit increase in 2007. Pre-registration and exhibit space sales are tracking nearly 20% ahead of the 2005 Fair, which boasted a 20% increase over the previous show. For the first time ever, AWFS Vegas has been designated by the U.S. Department of Commerce as a U.S. Commercial Service's International Buyer Program (IBP) event that connects U.S. companies with foreign customers. Major supply companies throughout the world are committing to participate in AWFS Vegas because they see the Fair as a hub for developing international commerce, according to AWFS.
 

Special services for visitors formally participating in the International Buyer Program as members of delegations organized by U.S. Consulates throughout the word include: complimentary AWFS Fair registration, a 10% discount on all College of Woodworking Knowledge educational sessions, an invitation to the international buyer reception, an exhibit hall tour previewing the show and the opportunity to meet with U.S. companies and potential trade partners via the Department of Commerce’s Matchmaking Program. AWFS staff, as well as representatives from the U. S. Department of Commerce and the U.S. Embassy will be available in the International Business Center (IBC) to assist AWFS Fair attendees from around the world.

AWFS has an international membership that includes manufacturers and distributors of machinery, hardware, lumber, upholstery, materials, bedding and other supplies to furniture, cabinet manufacturers and custom woodworkers.

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