Final report from Cologne is very strong

Comment by Roy Martin on March 31, 2009 at 11:26am

Kevin: The numbers do not surprise me. I was there and saw it. In one of your previous posts, you say you think this type of show is impossible to pull off in the U.S. I disagree! However, it would take tremendous cooperation from all the dental trade.

I've been around long enough to remember when the demise of the U.S. trade show began. It cooincides with the advent of mandatory continuing education. This act began the process of removing the dentist from the exhibit hall to the lecture hall. If an annual or even bi-annual (say on years between the IDS) show was held, sponsored by the trade and supported by the dental manufacturers and dealers, with no or minimal lectures, I believe it could become very successful. It's all about mind-set. IDS is a business show. Practically every show in the U.S. is "educational", which also means social. The dental societies have cornered us into funding their social activities and speakers that literally take the dentist out of the exhibit hall. So we've paid for the demise not only directly but indirectly! It's no wonder there are so many shows in the U.S. - each diluting the others. We made it happen!

This is not a new idea as I've spoken to many in the trade who favor something like this. The problem, as usual, is politics. Everyone is afraid to make the dental societies mad. I would almost rather just send them a check substantially smaller than the cost of attending their show and spend the difference on a show just for the trade. They could have their "President's dinners", CE courses without "interfernece" from the exhibit hall and we could concentrate on making our trade shows better.

There's more to it than this, but room here prevents a full blown discussion about it. But believe me, the interest and ability to have a U.S. version of the IDS exists. Roy

Comment by Harold K. Schmulenson on March 31, 2009 at 10:46pm

IDS was an exceptional show. As both a dentist and a manufacturer I can tell you that there is absolutely no way this type of show can be duplicated in the US for cultural reasons alone between the booth bars and spray paint. "The dental societies have cornered us into funding their social activities and speakers that literally take the dentist out of the exhibit hall" is a correct statement as I see it. The reception given to my company and products in Europe was phenomenal and highly appreciated. Overall I consider the show to highlight the technology better than it's US counterparts.

Comment by Stefan A. Gefter on April 8, 2009 at 10:38am

Hi Kevin:

Thanks for your blog. I would have contributed more feedback, but the early starts, frenetic pace of the show, plus evening activities, were exhausting. I'm surprised you had the energy to post more than one entry! :-)

I will join the chorus of those who agree that IDS 2009 was the best in memory. The uncertainty and fear going into the event was quickly replaced by optimism and hope about the health of the Industry and the prospects for the near, mid, and long-term success. While we amassed the usual, sever-inches-thick stack of dealer business cards, I felt that, overall, the quality of the contacts we received was much improved. Proof will be in the pudding, so let me get back to those follow-ups! :-)

Best regards,
Stefan

Comment by Kevin Henry on April 8, 2009 at 10:42am

Good to hear, Stefan. Looking back on the show, it really exceeded all expectations, I believe.

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