October 2012 | Volume 33, Issue 10
A MONTHLY PUBLICATION FOR FNGLA MEMBERS. DIGITAL MONTHLY ISSUE LOCATED AT HTTP://GREENLINE.FNGLA.ORG
The Landscape Show Was Blockbuster Success!
SEPTEMBER 27 - 29 2012 The Landscape Show, considered the Southeast’s premier nursery and landscape trade show, was the main event for nearly 7000 industry professionals. Taking place September 27-29 in Orlando, The Landscape Show featured more than 400 exhibitors, dozens of educational sessions and new professional networking activities. The show opened with a pertinent and positive economic forecast from Dr. Charlie Hall who holds the Ellison Chair in International Floriculture at Texas A & M University. Dr. Hall not only gave encouraging data on the economy, but also reminded industry professionals of the tremendous value beyond aesthetics plants, trees and green spaces bring to the marketplace. The show floor was busy with buyers who were not only impressed with the elaborate displays created by the more than 400 exhibitors, they were placing orders and discussing projects in the works. “The Landscape Show was filled with a buzz of optimism and opportunity,” said Ty Strode, Vice President and Director of Marketing of AgriStarts, Inc. and chairman of The Landscape Show. “There was definitely a big increase in business written at this year’s show. I hope it is a sign we are finally turning the corner with the economy.”
As usual, exhibitors at The Landscape Show were not only creative with their displays, but most were informative and many were inspiring and fun. Congratulations are extended to Knox Nursery who received the 2012 Best of Show Booth Award. Sunscape Landscape Nursery was recognized for the most Unusual Specimen and Grandiflora once again received the Best Use of Show Theme Award. For a complete list of Booth Award winners visit http://www.fngla.org/ thelandscapeshow/boothawards.aspx. The TLS Knowledge College (formerly FNGLA Short Course) not only brought exceptional education to The Landscape Show, but constructed its own educational venue on the trade show floor, complete with classroom theaters, a courtyard for networking, a center stage area, and even theater marquees and popcorn. “We want to make professional education a more integral part of The Landscape Show, explained Billy Butterfield, Amersicapes Landscape Management Services and committee member of both The Landscape Show and the TLS Knowledge College. “ The new location of the TLS Knowledge College on the show floor added to the energy and enthusiasm of this year’s show. Hopefully industry members became more aware of the outstanding educational programs we offer each year.” Several new additions to this year’s show proved successful, including a mobile website making it easy to find exhibitors, set up a personal show schedule and keep up with show activities via a smart phone or tablet. “Tapped In”, a new networking event for industry professionals under age 40 was well attended, as nearly 100 young professionals gathered at The Pub at Pointe Orlando to meet and establish business relationships. As Chairman (continued from page 1) (continued page 3)