Organizers of the 2004 Mid-America Trucking Show, held last week at the Kentucky Fair & Exposition Center in Louisville, said 74,454 people filled the aisles by the close of the show on Saturday.

The 1,050 exhibiting companies from 46 states and 13 foreign countries had plenty of company for the event, considered by the industry to be the foremost show in trucking. In total, the show encompassed more than 1 million square feet of exhibit space, showcasing hundreds of products and services. Nearly 75,000 individuals from all 50 states and 57 foreign countries attended this year’s event.
Exhibit Management Associates Inc. was pleased with the attendance turnout and despite the ongoing construction, noted the abundance of decision-makers in every wing.
"We experienced one of the largest increases in attendance numbers ever recorded for Mid-America," said Tim Young, president of EMA. "Our exhibitors noted the distribution of buyers throughout the halls and the financial gains realized as a result of the ever-increasing quality of MATS attendees. Overall, we are thrilled with the results of our efforts, as is the vast majority of our exhibitors."
Three days of warm weather allowed attendees to enjoy the various indoor and outdoor show features including the Paul K. Young Memorial Truck Beauty Championship, the Expedite InfoCenter, the Mid-America Recruitment Center, and Mid-America’s Internet and Technology Center.
Celebrities included Toby Keith, Crystal Gayle, Ken Schrader, Matt Kenseth, Michael Waltrip, Chubby Checker, Phil Vassar, members of Lynyrd Skynyrd, and more, making appearances throughout the show.
The official opening of 2005 exhibit space reservations begins Aug. 15. Space is historically at a premium and has traditionally sold-out year after year, so it is imperative for exhibitors to make reservations as soon as possible. Make plans now to attend the 34th Annual Mid-America Trucking Show, March 24 - 26, 2005 at the Kentucky Fair and Exposition Center, in Louisville.
For additional information on The Mid-America Trucking Show, visit www.truckingshow.com.