IGC Show 2016 reports record first-time attendees

Chicago – As the IGC Show wrapped its 10-year anniversary celebration at Chicago’s Navy Pier, independent garden center owners, managers and buyers took new practices and ideas back to their businesses after two days of keynote addresses, education sessions, entertainment and networking.

RELATED: 10 highlights and takeaways from the 2016 IGC Show Chicago

New product and show specials drew buyers to the festival hall, with the most first-time attendees recorded since the event’s launch in 2007. Mike Zaffaroni, owner of Liberty Landscape Supply in Fernandina Beach, Fla., told show floor staffers, “I’m from Florida, and I attend some of the regional industry trade shows. I’ve seen the IGC Show ads in industry publications, and decided I really needed to attend this year. I’m so glad I did.” Christine McMeekin, vice president of Quality Gardens in Valencia, Pa., said, “I decided to come for the first time this year because of the educational sessions – I really needed inspiration, and I sure got it here.”

Many exhibitors also reported record sales from orders written at their booths. “This is our 10th year of attending the IGC Show - the best industry show by far,” said John Loyet, owner/buyer, Greenscape Gardens in Ballwin, Mo. “It is the only show we go to. We find so many new products and ideas for our store.” Melissa Barr, owner of Barr Evergreens in Crumpler, N.C., said, “The IGC Show is a shopper’s paradise. We always buy product for our retail Christmas tree and pumpkin lots while we’re here.”

Networking and fun were the focus at Tuesday evening’s birthday bash and concert, as REO Speedwagon performed live. Confetti rainined down on a record crowd of more than 1,200 concert-goers. “The best part for me was when the lead singer – my friend Kevin Cronin, from back in the day – told the audience that independent garden centers are what help make America great,” says Jeff Morey, founder and CEO of the IGC Show. “The band flew in from Tampa, where they performed the night before, largely because they believe in the power and importance of independent retailers. They really get it, and it made the night that much more special for everyone.”

Morning keynotes were given by Mike Ditka and Amanda Thomsen in the Aon Grand Ballroom at Navy Pier. When asked by a member of the audience what he thinks of Tom Brady and “deflategate,” Ditka responded in his trademark no-holds-barred manner, “Tom Brady is the best player out there. He doesn't need to cheat to win. He's too good for that. I don't agree with the commission on suspending him. That's my opinion.” The audience responded with a standing ovation. After her hilarious keynote that used humor to kick IGCs in high gear to reach younger customers, Thomsen signed copies of her book and spent the next days touring the show floor.

IGC Show returns to Chicago’s Navy Pier with an all-new lineup of presenters and special plans in store August 15-17, 2017. More details will be announced soon.