The Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM) welcomed visitors today as CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2023 opened in Las Vegas, expressing optimism about the event's turnout. Advance registrations suggest that attendance could surpass 130,000 throughout the week, making it the largest in the show's history. The exhibition space sold out in December, boasting 3 million square feet, a 5% increase from the 2020 edition.

AEM President Megan Tanel emphasized the importance of face-to-face interactions in the buying and selling process during a press conference. The 2020 event was affected by the pandemic, but this year's show has seen a significant increase in pre-registrations and exhibitor participation, with 2,000 companies in attendance.

The new West Hall and the underground Las Vegas Convention Center Loop are being used for the first time at CONEXPO-CON/AGG, providing an improved visitor experience. AEM released a report highlighting the equipment manufacturing industry's role in the U.S. economy, supporting 2.35 million jobs and accounting for 11% of total U.S. manufacturing employment.

Tanel praised the industry's resilience, noting its ability to adapt and innovate in the face of challenges, such as global pandemics and supply chain disruptions. The show will run from Tuesday to Saturday, March 14-18, open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., with an early closing time of 3 p.m. on the final day.