A More Seamless, Integrated Event

Since the last ACS unfortunately had to be canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic, does it feel different to prepare the event for 2022?

Cheryl Matthews: Every aspect of planning for the 2022 American Coatings Show and Conference is different due to COVID-19. Even 24 months later, the pandemic is constantly evolving, and as the organizers of the show, we must stay on top of the changing protocols that might affect the outcome of the event.

Planning a large trade show is complex in a normal year; but considering state and local mandates, international travel restrictions, and different protocols from 15-20 hotels, it adds another level of complexity to the planning process. Our industry has expressed that they would like to return to an in-person trade show. Our goal is to do so in a way that protects those that attend, and ensures they have a great experience.

Have you set a particular focus for the upcoming show?

Matthews: Our focus for the 2022 AC Show and Conference will be to give exhibitors an opportunity to present their new products and innovations at the largest industry gathering since the 2019 European Coatings Show. This will be the first major trade show/conference in our industry in almost three years by April 2022.

Are there any new features of the show and conference?

Matthews: There are many new features that we will roll out in 2022. The trade show will feature new branding that has been used on marketing materials, but not on the show floor. It will provide the exhibition hall a new, fresh look.

We have also redesigned the schedule of events so that the AC Show and Conference take place Tuesday through Thursday. This will give conference attendees numerous opportunities to visit the show floor each day. For the first time, all breaks for the American Coatings Conference will be held in the same hall as the exposition. Attendees of the conference and show will share joint luncheons, and conference breaks will provide opportunities for attendees to spend more time at the exhibition throughout the event. The goal is to provide a more seamless, integrated event for participants and more opportunities for exhibitors to engage with attendees.

The launch of the Powder Coatings pavilion will provide exhibitors an opportunity to highlight industry-specific products and services and draw attendees whose interests and business needs focus on that segment of the industry.

Attendees of the conference and show will share joint luncheons, and conference breaks will provide opportunities for attendees to spend more time at the exhibition throughout the event.

What trends are you expecting to see?

Matthews: The ACS has always been a showcase for new products and the latest industry's technologies. That is one of the things that makes the show such an exciting “must-attend” event for individuals in the industry. This year’s theme for the AC Conference is “Strong and Resilient: Innovation in Coatings Technology.”

I am looking forward to seeing the new product launches revealed at the AC Show 2022 as a result of innovative coatings research and development.