Because California still has tight restrictions on group meetings, NAHAD has moved its Annal Meeting & Convention slated for June 12-15 in San Diego to the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess, in Arizona. The event will look similar to previous events in the past, with keynote and breakout presentations, ample networking opportunities, manufacturer and associate hospitality suites, the Showcase of Hose Solutions, and of course opening and closing parties which will be outdoors to meet Covid-19 safety protocols.
“When NAHAD had to cancel its 2020 Annual Convention, much of the program had already been planned. Thankfully, we were able to work with our speakers and were able to move those presentations to Scottsdale. We have planned this year’s educational programming with a focus on the economy, as well as workshops that outline trends specific to NAHAD’s business sectors, as well as distribution as a whole,” said Sam Petillo, President, Singer Equities NAHAD 2019-2021 President. “I am also pleased to report that our terrific line up of speakers includes Herm Edwards, former NFL coach and commentator, who will deliver our luncheon keynote. Talk about someone who can motivate us and keep us all moving forward.”
Molly Alton Mullins, Executive Vice President, is confident the new location will meet the needs of all NAHAD attendees and that the event’s registration is progressing well. “This 4-Star, 5-Diamond property will work beautifully for NAHAD’s program and we are super excited about it, and being able to get everyone together,” she said. “Showcase attendance is going really well – we are about 70% sold out on the show floor, which is exciting. We do believe a lot of companies have been waiting to see what would be happening in California, so I also anticipate more registrations soon since just announcing the venue change.”
The event kicks off Saturday, June 12 with the Board of Directors meeting and Standards Committee Meeting, which is for board/committee members.
The Opening General Session on Sunday will be led by Alex Chausovsky, with his talk on “Managing in an Uncertain Economy.” After a grab and go lunch, a sales and marketing breakout will be led by Ryan Avery, with his talk, “Connect More, Convince Less!” The popular Speed Networking returns from 3 to 4:30 that afternoon, allowing manufacturers and distributors to meet in a musical chairs format. Sunday concludes with the Opening Party.
Monday begins with a Guest Program at the Poolside Cabanas and company meetings held throughout the day. A Distribution Workshop will be conducted by Ian Heller, on “Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Distribution.” As always, the entire group will gather for the Luncheon, Keynote & Carver Award, as Herm Edwards, former NFL player and coach, NFL studio analyst for ESPN, current head football coach at Arizona State University, presents his keynote, “Doing the Little Things and Executing Vision.” He will offer the audience an understanding of what makes true leaders, a game plan for these four key pillars: work ethic, communication, integrity, and legacy, and more.
Monday afternoon is open for attendees to relax by one of the six pools at the Fairmount Princess or to explore Scottsdale. That evening, attendees can attend the hospitality suites from manufacturer and associate members. Petillo said there are currently six hospitality suites scheduled for that night.
As usual, Tuesday starts with a General Session, with Jeff Havens, leading a presentation on “Us vs. Them.” That will be followed by the NAHAD Business Meeting. The popular Showcase of Hose Solutions will be available throughout the day for attendees to visit exhibitors from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Company meetings for one-on-one networking will continue to be available throughout the day.
The event will wrap up with the event favorite — the Closing Party, where attendees will gather poolside for sunset to close out another NAHAD Convention.
Additionally, the NAHAD Academy Kiosk will be open throughout the entire event to afford attendees an opportunity to learn about the training opportunities available throughout the year.
NAHAD’s priority is the health and safety of all attendees. The event will follow protocols in place to ensure a safe and enjoyable meeting experience. In the event attendees need to cancel conference registration, full refunds will be given.
Petillo indicates in his letter to potential attendees that the event is in full swing and back in business as usual. “I promise you that during this year’s Annual Convention you will have every opportunity to meet with long-time partners and make new connections to help grow your business,” he said. “This will be a great opportunity to get back to business and bring the NAHAD membership all under one roof to do what we do best.”
Visit NAHAD.com to learn more about the complete schedule and speakers, as well as register.
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