March 2009

Convention Report

Show Highlights:
World of Concrete/World of Masonry 2009

The weather was mild and the skies were blue for in Las Vegas for World of Concrete/World of Masonry 2009, which drew an energized crowd this year consisting of tens of thousands from all over the world. From the exciting, in-your-face outdoor exhibits, to the sea of indoor vendor booths from all facets of the industry, the show was full of those ready to see, hear and talk about what’s new. The SPEC MIX BRICKLAYER 500 was, again, a success, as was the MCAA’s Fastest Trowel on the Block contest (read more about the 2009 MCAA Convention on pp. 38 – 42). Many companies hosted press conferences at their booths to launch their latest and greatest products and services. Some vendors stated they were seeing more “serious” attendees and less “tire kickers” than in past years – a sign of today’s turbulent economy. All in all, a productive and fun time was had by all.

World of Concrete/World of Masonry 2009 delivered another busy show of new products and services to tens of thousands of attendees.

Jennifer Morrell, editor of Masonry, finds the perfect hardhat from MSA.

Tyke Mangum won the title of “World’s Best Bricklayer” at the 2009 SPEC MIX BRICKLAYER 500 National Bricklaying Championship during World of Concrete.

MSA launched new enhancements to the company Web site during World of Concrete.

MK Diamond’s booth was hopping with activity throughout the week.

Outdoor demonstrations of heavy equipment always draw a crowd during World of Concrete.

Frank Owens stands beside Quikrete’s new green mortar product at the Quikrete booth.

Jeff Halbach  stands with Capital Safety’s line of scaffold safety equipment at the company’s outside booth.

The crew at Masonry Tec had a successful show at World of Concrete.

The staff at Kem-O-Kleen had a busy week during World of Concrete.