Atlanta

More than 22,512 people, including 912 exhibitors, attended this year's Medtrade, which took place at the Georgia World Congress Center Oct. 28 through Oct. 31, according to Cory Smith, group show director.

“From an attendee standpoint, we're up over the 1999, 2000 and 2001 shows,” he continued. “There should be an asterisk placed next to 2001, [however], because of the events associated with Sept. 11.”

Despite the sluggish U.S. economy and the looming threat of competitive bidding, exhibitors and attendees reported conducting “a high level of business” at this year's show, Smith said. “I believe [this] is a positive sign for the industry.”

Next year, Medtrade will take place in Atlanta Oct. 9 through Oct. 11, to accommodate an Oct. 6 Jewish high holiday, Yom Kippur, Smith explained. Additionally, instead of being separated into two exhibit halls, the show will take place in one hall, in Building B. “It's going to be a tight fit,” Smith allowed, “but moving some exhibits off the show floor will ensure adequate space.”

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