Making the Most of the Marketing & Distribution Convention
If you are joining us for the 2023 Marketing & Distribution Convention at the Sheraton Crown Center, here are a few notes to help you prepare. If you have not yet registered, there’s still time to sign up and meet fellow manufacturing, marketing and supplier members! Go to FarmEquip.org or call us at (314) 878-2304.
Maximize Your Time: The convention brings together hundreds of representatives from companies in the specialized farm equipment industry. If there are specific people you want to meet, set up appointments as soon as possible. Don’t wait until you get to the convention to make initial contact. Use our registration list to reach out to potential business partners before the convention.
Communications Center: The Joint Industry Communication Center is located in the Terrace Room and is a great place to relax, connect and network with fellow attendees of both associations.
Registration/Name Badges: The convention registration desk will be on the Terrace at the Sheraton Crown Center near the hotel lobby. Association staff will be at the desk, the entirety of the convention, to answer any questions you may have. A badge is required to attend any convention meetings, sessions or social activities.
Ticket Free Events: To make it easier for members, there is now a QR code on your name badge that will replace drink/event tickets. There are no tickets to remember and Association staff will simply scan the QR code for admittance into all breakfasts, receptions, guest and farewell outings and the cave tour.
Mobile App: Connect with attendees directly using the Whova app. Download, install, and sign in using your email address, LinkedIn, or Facebook. You can access the meeting schedule, network with attendees, schedule meetings, plan group outings, see exhibitors and sponsors, and more. Search “FEMA Fall Convention in Kansas City” to find our event on the app.
Access Registration Lists: The Association is pleased to report that this year’s attendance is the best it has been since 2018. The potential to make beneficial business connections is excellent. See who’s registered at FarmEquip.org/FallMeetingAttendees. The list is updated daily so you can plan your schedule ahead of time.
Contact Session / Marketplace: There will be ample time to meet independent reps and wholesalers during the Contact Session and Marketplace on Wednesday and networking opportunities throughout the convention.
Room Reservations: There are still rooms available, but they are filling up fast! If you need to adjust your room reservation, please contact Tricia Kidd at (314) 878-2304. After Wednesday, Oct. 25, room changes should be handled directly with the Sheraton Crown Center at (816) 841-1000.
Spouses/Guests: Meeting attendees are more than welcome to bring a spouse/guest to take part in convention events, general sessions, breakouts, social activities and a special event planned just for them on Wednesday, Nov. 1. There are plenty of things to do in Kansas City and the hotel is in Crown Center with premier shopping, dining and entertainment a short stroll away. At the same time, popular downtown attractions such as Union Station are a quick ride away. Visit Country Club Plaza, Legoland, the Convention Center or the vibrant Power & Light District.
Dress Code: Attire for the Fall Convention is typically business casual. You will see a little bit of everything: sports coats, khakis, polos, and button-downs. Because people are often arriving at the hotel moments before the Welcome Reception, this event tends to be more casual.