The International Bottled Water Association (IBWA) has just concluded its 2007 convention and trade show, where a host of exhibitors, speakers and qualified buyers came together to participate in seminars, education sessions, networking events, and the “tabletop” trade show. The 2007 IBWA Convention and Tabletop Trade Show, operating under the theme “The Bottled Water Event: A Place to Learn,” was held in Las Vegas, NV, October 15-19, 2007. Feedback from attendees and exhibitors demonstrates that the IBWA convention presented innovative technologies, processes, and industry trends to help bottled water professionals meet the challenges of today and the future.

In addition, the IBWA convention was co-located with PACK EXPO 2007, which was held at the Las Vegas Convention Center. PACK EXPO 2007 focused on the latest developments in packaging machinery, materials, and containers. All IBWA Convention and Trade Show attendees received a complimentary registration to PACK EXPO 2007.

The 2007 IBWA Convention and Tabletop Trade Show far exceeded initial expectations. IBWA originally estimated that the new tabletop trade show format (to be held in odd-numbered years) would attract approximately 40 exhibitors. However, demand was so great that IBWA filled every available space on the trade show floor, with 70 supplier companies participating in this event. In addition, IBWA originally estimated that 300 people would come to the convention and trade show, but the final total was nearly 800 attendees.

The IBWA General Session contained an informative panel presentation on bottled water environmental issues, as well as the IBWA annual business meeting, where newly-elected IBWA Chairman Chris Saxman, (Shenandoah Valley Water Co.), officers and board members were installed for the 2007-2008 period. IBWA President Joe Doss also reported to the membership on successful IBWA initiatives during the past year and praised IBWA members for their continued commitment to excellence.

IBWA presented 22 educational sessions, which covered topics ranging from bottled water safety, quality and regulations, plant and production processes, marketing, advertising and public relations, politics and government relations, lab and analytical sciences, container, recycling, and environmental issues. Convention attendees had the opportunity to earn up to 20.5 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) required of all Certified Plant Operators.

The 2007 IBWA Convention and Trade Show was punctuated by exciting social events throughout the week, including an evening of fine dining and outstanding entertainment by impersonators masterfully representing the look and vocal stylings of Cher, Bette Midler, and Tina Turner.

To learn more about the 2007 IBWA Convention and Trade Show visit the IBWA web site at www.bottledwater.org.

Looking ahead, exhibitors interested in participating in the IBWA convention and trade show in 2007 and/or 2008 should contact Michele Campbell, IBWA Director of Trade Shows, Conventions, and Meetings at (703) 647-4606.