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May 2001 issue of
Rental Management
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A.R.A. convention — showcase to a global, growing industry
Christine Wehrman
Christine Wehrman is chief executive officer and executive vice president of the American Rental Association, 1900 19th St., Moline, IL 61265; 800-334-2177 or 309-764-2475, ext. 280; fax 309-764-1533; e-mail: chris.wehrman@ararental.org. 05/01/2001
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| Thank you to everyone who attended and participated in the A.R.A. Convention and Rental Trade Show in Orlando, Fla., in February. I hope that all of you and your peers plan to be with A.R.A. in New Orleans Feb. 18-21, 2002. This late-winter convention and trade show is the event of the equipment rental industry, spanning some 45 years of history. It truly reflects the dynamics of our rental industry, showcasing both the people and the equipment that represent us. A.R.A. is committed to constant re-evaluation and improvement of this event in order to deliver a quality program to the membership and industry. I invite you to telephone or e-mail me — (800) 334-2177, ext. 280 or chris.wehrman@ararental.org — with your comments about Orlando if you were there, or contact me to share why you chose not to attend. I would like to hear from you. Since this was my first A.R.A. convention, my time in Orlando served as my introduction to all of you — A.R.A. members and our partners throughout the industry. I am proud to be associated with this industry. Thank you for your kindness and hospitality in welcoming me. I appreciate your candor on how A.R.A. is currently serving your needs and your suggestions about how we can do better. The trade show was impressive, showcasing all segments of the industry. Sales and marketing personnel from the companies represented throughout the show floor were there to assist you with the latest innovations in technology and technique. The A.R.A. show is meant to provide maximum opportunities for interaction and remains the best opportunity for rental people and industry suppliers to interface and become familiar with product lines, compare and purchase equipment, understand safety requirements, meet company people who can ensure good service and learn of new or soon-to-be-introduced products and equipment, and also for companies to understand customer requirements. Attendance at this show saves you both money and time, while keeping you on the leading edge of industry initiatives. An Exhibitor Advisory Committee comprised of dedicated volunteers, which guides the A.R.A. Rental Trade Show, sought input from exhibitors in Orlando that we will incorporate into plans for New Orleans. Each exhibitor I spoke with in Orlando expressed a strong concern and interest in the welfare of the rental industry. They view our business very correctly as a partnership between rental store owners and industry suppliers. The growth of the rental industry is key to the success of everyone’s business. My discussions with exhibitors focused on how to strengthen this working relationship for everyone’s mutual benefit. In addition to the trade show, I wish every one of you could have experienced the A.R.A. Products and Services booth, the A.R.A. Insurance Services booth and the Rental Management booth to see your A.R.A. at work! This organization is equipped to ensure your success in business, and all the tools of success from the A.R.A. Web page, National Rental Month (April), the Member Buying Alliance (MBA) and more were showcased in Orlando. Also featured were the initiatives of the Rental Equip-ment Industry Foundation (REIF), which has the strong support of A.R.A. In Orlando, you had the chance to see and understand these programs and partners in your success firsthand. The individual programs and seminars of the convention, Construction University and the Events & Tents program provided the education and training tools for everyone to improve their businesses. The side benefit to attending is to meet others in the business and make friendships you can rely upon for feedback throughout the year. Every aspect of attending just makes good business sense. Orlando had something for every attendee to learn and benefit from, whether professionally or personally. My primary image of the Orlando event is one of community — the equipment rental community. Whether on an individual basis or within a social setting or function, the sense of community was expressed throughout the Orlando event. Whether the individual was from the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom or any of the 57 countries represented, there was evidence of a true commitment to the betterment of this community of ours. While the Annual A.R.A. Convention and Rental Trade Show is one very effective way that A.R.A. can bring together the influences of our membership, potential members of our organization and the industry should realize the strength and opportunities in this rental community, and we must continue to build its strength throughout the year. Each of us has the responsibility to increase consumer awareness and understanding of the concept of rental and to build the image of the rental business. A strong community is one with full participation — and I welcome yours! |
 
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