Fastening + Joining

connections outside of the office.” fastener associations in the U.S. — in cooperation with the North Coast Fastener Association, will also host a golf tournament before the show.

This year, the Fastener Fair is partnering with the Fastener Industry Coalition (FIC), which includes 13 key fastener associations, to promote and participate in the Nashville show. FIC is an unincorporated association made up of regional and national fastener associations concerned with the distribution, manufacture, and importation of fasteners.

Show visitors can expect a comprehensive display of product innovations and demonstrations, technical sessions, and opportunities to connect with peers and industry experts.

Then, after the first day of the Fastener Fair on May 16th, get ready for its annual networking party — at the Country Music Hall of Fame. It’s home to the Hall of Fame Rotunda and worldclass exhibitions.

“You won’t want to miss this party,” said Chiricosta. “Expect food, an open bar, plenty of networking opportunities, plus live music. In fact, singer and songwriter Tommy O’Keeffe will play live for us.”

This year, Fastener Fair USA is partnering with the Fastener Industry Coalition (FIC) to promote and participate in the event. The FIC comprises regional and national fastener associations supporting the industry. Learn more at fastenercoalition.org.

Attendees might recognize him as Tim O’Keeffe’s son. Tim is the CEO of Huyett, an ISO 9001-certified manufacturer, master distributor, and importer of non-threaded fasteners.

“It’s interesting because we’ve learned that 45% of Fastener Fair USA attendees only go to our event. They don’t attend other shows, so it’s extremely important for us to prepare an event that’s educational, interactive, and fun. It’s not every day that everyone gets to travel or make in-person

“They’ll be presenting some of the talks and panel discussions that will take place,” he said. “We plan to have educational content focused on technology, supply chains, and sales. We also want to offer insight to those new to the industry, including young professionals. We’ll be announcing the conference line-up shortly.”

According to Chiricosta, Fastener Fair USA also brings in 36% of new firstyear attendees to the show each year. And so far, they’ve already received a large and favorable response to this year’s event.

“The companies and exhibitors we’ve talked to so far cannot wait for the show this year,” he said. “They want to be involved and connect with more people. Nashville is great for this because there’s so much nearby manufacturing in the

Kentucky and Tennessee areas. There are international auto plants, and manufacturing facilities for appliances, furniture, and other components toward the coast.”

You can check out the exhibitor list at tinyurl.com/FastenerFairExhibitors.

“Aside from being a fun location in the center of honky tonk bars and non-stop music, Nashville is a place of opportunities,” added Chiricosta. “We expect this year’s Fair will be a not-tobe-missed event.”

As for next year, Fastener Fair USA will be returning to Cleveland, OH.

“Ohio is somewhat of a hub for the fastener world in the United States,” he says. “Sometimes I’m surprised how many international companies have a branch in the state. So, we’ll probably always return to Cleveland for certain years. But we’re hoping to add Nashville to the rotation, and we’re really looking forward to seeing those in the fastener industry there soon!” FE

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