Highlights from GATS 2019
By: Kailey Spangenberg, Outside Sales Executive, Conversion Interactive Agency
Posted: Sep 19, 2019
Categories: Conference, GATS, Great American Trucking Show, Conversion Interactive Agency, Sales
The Great American Trucking Show (GATS) is one of the largest events of the year for the trucking Industry. There are close to 500 exhibitors and 50,000 products and services representing the transportation sector. It’s a place where people from all different areas come together to learn what’s new in the industry, what’s changing, and how to stay ahead in trucking.
Networking was one of the biggest benefits of attending GATS this year. Our team was able to meet many different people in the transportation industry. We spent time with old friends, new faces, and even some connections from LinkedIn. GATS was the perfect space for the team behind the arrow to connect and converse with so many incredible people under one roof.
While attendees who sell products and offer services have immense benefits at GATS, it’s safe to say that carriers may get the most benefit of all. Carriers can actively recruit new drivers on the showroom floor. Drivers come to truck shows, like GATS, to look for the next best thing. When they are walking the floor, they are looking for the carrier that stands out to them. Many of our clients have success with recruiting truck drivers at GATS.
Something we can’t forget to mention is the sea of swag that is given away during the show. Many carriers work with Conversion’s PrintPromo Source to hand select the perfect items that drivers will love. Making an impression is a huge part of being successful at truck shows. Some of the hot items this year were PopSockets, portable charging stations, and of course, water bottles.
While it may seem like it was all fun and games, we did get down to business. There were many learning sessions with major key players in the trucking industry. Sirius XM Radio hosted interviews with women like Ellen Voie from Women in Trucking and Shelley Simpson the President of J.B Hunt’s highway services. Ray Martinez, Administrator of FMCSA, hosted a listening session regarding the new HOS and ELD mandates.
All in all, we had a great time bonding and growing as a team. GATS is a great place to learn more about the trucking industry, meet new people, and connect with our clients. Did you and your team attend GATS? Comment below and let us know your favorite part of the show. See you next year!
