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World of Concrete Trade Show Hits Nine-Year Attendance High

World of Concrete 2018 exceeded expectations across the board, and concluded the 43rd edition as the largest World of Concrete in nine years. This signature event for the concrete & masonry industries drew 58,222 registered professionals, and featured more than 1,567 companies (including 302 brand new companies) exhibiting across more than 747,411 net square feet of exhibit space.

“This has been an incredible year – the success of World of Concrete 2018 helps solidify WOC as the only annual event for concrete & masonry professionals,” said Jackie James, Group Director, World of Concrete. “Having our largest event in nine years proves that the construction sector is going strong worldwide. Participants, both domestic and international, experienced the very best the industry has to offer in terms of suppliers, products, services and education, and we look forward to an even larger event at WOC 2019.”

World of Concrete established the Bob Weatherton Award to honor his contributions to the concrete industry. The award includes a $2,500 scholarship and a $200 gift card which was presented at the CIM National Board Meeting at WOC 2018. This year’s recipient of the Weatherton Award was Damien Bonis, who attends California State University – Chico. His presentation was “A Concrete Advantage: How the CIM Program Fosters Unique Research and Internship Opportunities.”

Concrete Industry Management (CIM) is a business program that has been developed specifically for the concrete industry to provide students with a four-year Bachelor of Science degree in Concrete Industry Management. The program gives students entering the concrete work force industry experience early in their careers. In addition, CIM held its 13th annual unreserved silent and live auctions at World of Concrete. The silent and live auctions raised gross revenues of just over $1.1 million, setting a record for funds raised at WOC, and bringing a total of over $7 million to the CIM program in the past 13 years. More information on the CIM Program can be found at concretedegree.com

Despite a brief government shutdown, International Delegation Leaders and Delegates from across the globe made it to WOC 2018 to do business at this premier global event, including a large delegation from India organized by the American Embassy in New Delhi. Mr. Sanjay Mathur, CEO of UltraTech Cement Ltd. and Mr. Ramesh Joshi, Sr. VP, visited the event along with others from the delegation. WOC once again partnered with the U.S. Commercial Service to support U.S. exhibitors interested in expanding their international sales and to recruit international attendees to the show.

The International Buyer Program at World of Concrete featured Construction Market and Industry Specialists from the U.S. Commercial Service. A special Export Achievement Certificate was presented to Verti-Crete LLC (precast concrete wall systems mfg.) by the U.S. Commercial Service for their contribution and recent success in international trade at WOC. Modelco, from Algeria, and Verti-Crete signed a long-term contract (customer/supplier), with a strategic partnership vision for the Algerian market. The Export Achievement Certificate (EAC) was created in 2001 to recognize small and medium-sized U.S. enterprises that have successfully entered the international marketplace for the first time or that have successfully entered a new market. Mike Sharp and Brent Baker from Verti-Crete accepted the award.

World of Concrete 2019 will be held January 22-25; Seminars 21-25, at the Las Vegas Convention Center.

Why Relationships Matter in Global Business

By Scott Ferguson

As Chief Executive Officer of an organization with a mission of growing trade, I often get asked a multitude of questions pertaining to the state of global commerce. The inquiries always revolve around the latest headline out of one country or another, or the most recent election, or just my take on the state of economic cooperation around the world.

But no matter the question my answer always stays the same: At the World Trade Centers Association (WTCA) we remain focused on one thing—our network.

This may seem selfish, or like we don’t care about the news. But this is not the case. Far from it. It is because the common thread that runs through our association of 300-plus members in nearly 100 countries, is stronger and more consequential than any one lurch in the ever-changing, seesawing nature of trade policy. Because our members often play a critical role in the local, regional and national economies where they are based, the WTCA and its membership roster are frequently in a position to bridge the divides that form from one administration to the next. Our relationships with one another are the bedrock of our organization. This network empowers each of us to continue to enrich our local communities, regardless of the coming or receding political storms.

Being a global organization made up of businesses as diverse as our members comes with challenges, for certain. But being able to call on fellow World Trade Centers from Bogota to Belfast, and Boston to Beijing, in a climate that often feels unstable, is the true value of WTCA Membership. And it is why now, more than ever, relationships matter.

Scott Ferguson is Chief Executive Officer of the World Trade Centers Association.

This article was originally published in the USA Trade Guide.

Louisiana Trade Guide Focuses on Export Promotion and Foreign Direct Investment

Online Edition Available at Louisiana.Think.Global

A free resource for Louisiana companies involved in international trade is now available online and in print from the Louisiana Small Business Development Center (LSBDC). The fourth edition of the Louisiana Trade Guide, published in partnership between the LSBDC and ThinkGlobal Inc., features statewide information and resources to help both exporters and foreign direct investors.

The colorful, magazine-style guide includes an international trade resources section that makes it easy to find resources and services providers throughout the state. The guide also features a welcome letter from Gov. John Bel Edwards, as well as an overview of international trade-related programs and services offered by Louisiana Economic Development.

“The Louisiana Small Business Development Center spearheaded the development of the new edition of the Louisiana Trade Guide,” says Rande Kessler, state director of LSBDC. “Having a single point of reference in print and online guide is a valuable tool for Louisiana exporters, foreign investors, and service providers. The guide is a must-have resource for both new exporters and for companies looking to expand into new markets.”

The new edition of the guide includes 10,000 print copies that are being distributed throughout Louisiana. The guide will be distributed to exporters throughout the state by the SBDC network, other state and local economic development agencies, and private sector service providers. Links to the digital edition also will be sent to U.S. embassies and consulates worldwide.

“The 2018 Louisiana Trade Guide includes an updated resource section, with comprehensive data about Louisiana service providers and trade-related resources,” says Greg Sandler, publisher at ThinkGlobal. “The guide also features expert advice and answers to frequently asked questions, along with information about key resources, such as economic development organizations, ports, and other service providers throughout the state.”

To read the Louisiana Trade Guide online, visit: http://Louisiana.Think.Global

Contacts For More Information

DeRon Talley, LSBDC

318-340-9353

dtalley@lsbdc.org

Greg Sandler, ThinkGlobal

800-581-8533, ext. 808

greg@thinkglobal.net

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Best Practices for Promoting Exports and Foreign Direct Investment

Tapping into global markets helps generate jobs and economic growth throughout the United States. According to a recent report from the U.S. Commerce Department, 95% of the world’s consumers live outside the U.S. The report, which draws on research by the Brookings Institution and the National League of Cities Center for Research & Innovation, notes that competition in today’s marketplace can be local, regional or global. The report also provides the following best practices to help local, state, and regional policymakers and business leaders develop global growth strategies.

Convene

Bring together regional and metropolitan economic leaders and assets – such as key corporations, service providers, workforce, and transportation infrastructure – to specifically identify your area’s advantages and competencies for export and investment promotion. Connect with businesses and develop strategies to better understand their needs.

Think Local

There is no one-size-fits-all approach to promoting exports and investment, and each community has unique market advantages. Identify your assets, and develop a brand. Gather local market insight and assess your industry strengths. When considering an investment attraction strategy, include operating costs, supply chain management, access to natural resources, transportation infrastructure, workforce development, access to technology, and quality of life in your assessment.

Foster Regional Collaboration

By creating a regional brand identity, and fostering collaboration, communities can successfully market themselves globally, and create effective export and investment plans.

Know Your Tools And Resources

Learn about the numerous federal, state, and local resources available on export.gov, which includes free access to tools such as the “Basic Guide to Exporting” and the “Trade Finance Guide.” For local assistance, contact your state trade office or the U.S. Commercial Service (see contact information in the resource section of this guide).

Tap into Global Markets

More than 70% of the world’s purchasing power is located outside of the United States. Successful exporters recognize that their competition may no longer be with each other, but with regions around the world.

Develop a Plan

With a regional identity and key players around the table, develop an actionable plan to promote exports and investment. The Brookings Institution has published “10 Steps to Delivering a Successful Metropolitan Export Plan,” to help business leaders take advantage of best practices and start planning.

Educate

Ensure that companies in your area know whether they have an exportable product or service and know about available resources at the federal and state level to help grow their business. Broaden the definition of exports to include activities, such as services exports, international visitors, and services to foreign students. For example, facilitate a briefing or seminar series to educate businesses about federal and state investment and export assistance resources and financing.

Improve Access to Information

One way to share up-to-date resources is to make sure that your city or regional website has a section dedicated to business assistance that provides information on opportunities and events related to exporting. Consider linking to local, state and federal trade resources.

Support Your Export Pipeline

Help identify export-ready companies and refer them to regional, state and federal assistance providers, such as the local Small Business Development Center (SBDC). For investment promotion, work with state and local government agencies, local businesses, and/or universities, to identify foreign countries and cities that may already have a relationship with your city.

Partner with Higher Education Institutions

Higher education ranks among the country’s top 10 service exports. Tuition and living expenses paid by international students and their families brought in nearly $21 billion to the U.S. economy during the 2010-2011 academic year. As a source of investment, exports, and workforce development, educational institutions should be involved in your export and investment planning discussions. Area institutions also can serve as key partners, with a strong knowledge base, research, and potential for successful internship and workforce development programs. Establish a Business-to-Business Mentorship Program Connect established exporters and investors in your area with growing businesses to share expertise and know-how in a particular market or sector. Closely affiliated with the U.S. Commercial Service, the 56 District Export Councils nationwide are organizations comprised of export leaders from their local business community.

Consider a Foreign Trade Zone

A Foreign Trade Zone (FTZ) helps encourage exports and investment by allowing delayed or reduced duty payments on foreign merchandise, as well as other savings. local governments and organizations, such as ports or economic development organizations, can apply to create an FTZ in their communities.

Organize

Consider organizing trade and investment missions to key global markets to promote your region for economic development. State trade offices and federal export promotion agencies, as well as non-profit trade organizations, often coordinate missions abroad. Globally, high-ranking U.S. federal officials, state governors and mayors are viewed favorably as top leaders representing their markets to tout its exports and its winning attributes for investment.

Build Exports and Investment into Your Broader Economic Strategy

With an eye to growth and global competitiveness, seek alignment between exports and foreign direct investment; innovation in manufacturing and services; investments in freight and logistics; and the development of a globally fluent workforce. A region’s success in the global marketplace can be enhanced with coordinated messages about trade and investment opportunities.

Discover trade promotion and foreign direct investment resources in the online edition of the USA Trade Guide.

Best Practices For Choosing A Supply Chain Management Solution

Read ThinkGlobal President Greg Sandler’s story about how choosing the right supply chain management software can help keep your supply chain running smoothly.

Sandler talked to chain expert Daniel Stanton, author of Supply Chain Management for Dummies, who says that in order to manage your international supply chain you need a system that can handle planning, sourcing, production, delivery, returns and fulfillment.

Read the full story on the American Express Open Forum website.

SIDO Leads State-Federal Trade Partnership Initiative

The State International Development Organizations (SIDO), a national organization focused on supporting the international trade agendas of the U.S. states and territories, has taken a leading role in developing a State and Federal Export Promotion Coordination Working Group.

SIDO, an affiliate of The Council of State Governments, helps state international trade agencies better serve American exporters by sharing innovative ideas and resources, and developing policies that help more small businesses export. International trade and export promotion are integral components of state economic development strategies.

In testimony before the House Small Business Committee in 2017, Ann Pardalos, manager of the International Trade and Investment Office for the State of Missouri and a past president of SIDO, underscored the importance of the states and federal government working together to help U.S. small businesses start or increase their exports. “State trade agencies understand they cannot do everything by themselves, and we greatly appreciate the support and partnership of our federal trade partners,” she said. “Each one of our agencies play an important role in helping to secure that final sale.”

In particular, said Pardalos, the State Trade and Expansion Promotion (STEP) grant program is indicative of how state and federal programs can work together. “The STEP grant program has been an important bridge to increase the coordination and communication between state and federal trade agencies— particularly with the U.S. Small Business Administration and the International Trade Administration,” said Pardalos.

No one state trade office is exactly the same. Each state works with a unique set of state and federal resources including: U.S. Export Assistance Centers, Small Business Development Centers, and Export-Import Bank regional offices.

For more information, read the USA Trade Guide online.

The World of Concrete: Solid to the Core

Attend the 2018 Conference: January 23-26 in Las Vegas

The most important annual international event of the year for concrete and masonry professionals, WOC 2018 expects to attract 60,000 professional registrants and 1,500 leading suppliers from around the world.

This world-renowned industry event will continue to bring international buyers together with U.S. exhibitors to expand business domestically and overseas. For the 13th consecutive year, the U.S. Department of Commerce has selected the World of Concrete as a participant in the International Buyer Program (IBP). WOC draws significant attendance at each event, working with U.S. Commercial Services posts from around the world.

World of Concrete welcomes international exhibitors to sell their concrete- and masonry-related products and services, as well as international attendee delegations from across the globe to network, test drive equipment and discover new products and services and benefit from a world-class education program.

The 2018 World of Concrete Education Program will include everything from interactive workshops and specialized seminars to hands-on, skill-building sessions. World of Concrete’s world-class education program equips field personnel, project leaders, supervisors and owners with the latest knowledge in every facet of concrete and masonry.

New for 2018: World of Concrete competitions and exhibits will be located in the Bronze Lot, next to South Hall. In addition to the exhibitors in this new area, returning WOC Event favorites include the John Deere Operator Challenge, the Western Star Trucks Get Tough Challenge, and the SPEC MIX BRICKLAYER 500® World Championship and much more.

Visit the WOC website for more details about the World of Concrete 2018: January 23-26; Seminars 22-26 at the Las Vegas Convention Center in Las Vegas, NV, USA.

Garrett Metal Detectors Discovers Success in Markets Worldwide

Garrett Metal Detectors

Charles and Eleanor Garrett began selling and marketing their company’s first line of metal detectors in 1964. Today, Garrett Metal Detectors remains a world leader in metal detection technology, with exports accounting for more than half of its sales.

Now, after the passing of her husband in 2015, Eleanor is keeping the Garland, Texas-based company focused on quality and service. “The Garrett name has come to stand for more than metal detection; it is a philosophy for unparalleled customer satisfaction,” she says. “We learned over the years that there is no price advantage program, special product feature or other promotional advantage that can replace a satisfied customer.”

Those satisfied customers include companies in the security, military, and sports/hobby sectors. In fact, Garrett Metal Detectors is a leading supplier of walk-through, hand-held and ground search metal detection products, and training for security and law enforcement worldwide. From the Olympic Games to international airports, Garrett’s commercial products are available in more than 120 countries.

Garrett’s Recon Pro countermine detectors are also used worldwide to help countries with the removal of landmines and other unexploded ordinance that pose a danger to civilians and the environment.

In the sports/hobby market, Garrett’s all-terrain metal detectors are popular with treasure hunters worldwide. The company’s proprietary technology works for hunting coins, relics, caches, jewelry, and even gold nuggets.

“As Garrett moves forward in the 21st century,” says Eleanor Garrett, “our mission is to continue the tradition of building and exporting great sport and security detectors for many generations to come.”