OCEAN CITY, MD.—With all the recent buzz around the “greening of the industry,” the Ocean City Hotel-Motel-Restaurant Association deemed it time to bring the topic to a local level. Scheduled March 8 and 9, the association’s 35th Annual Spring Trade Show will have the theme of “Conserve While You Serve.” This annual tradition will feature a variety of products and services to showcase the latest environmentally friendly ideas for the hospitality industry. From solar energy to biodegradable flatware, the lodging and dining industries will be able to select from many different products during the expo. There will be close to 400 exhibits under one roof. “There’s no better place to check out all the latest and most innovative products on the market,” said Annemarie Dickerson, owner of the Francis Scott Key Family Resort.
Because the economy is on the forefront, the expo provides a perfect opportunity to find the best deal. Many vendors offer “show specials” which provide great savings. The expo also offers an opportunity to reconnect with industry colleagues and to broaden one’s knowledge. Sustainability expert, EcoVentures International (EVI), is slated to provide several different workshops that explore a variety of topics. EVI’s research and programs include environmental enterprises related to renewable energy, water, agriculture, organics, non-timber forest products, recycling, natural fibers, and alternative fuels.
“At Shenanigans Irish Pub, we cater to a variety of locals and visitors, with a variety of tastes,” stated association past president and Shenanigans Irish Pub owner Greg Shockley. “In doing so, we need to have access to a wide array of products, and we can always count on finding those at the Spring Trade Expo.”
There will be more vendors than ever this year, with a new exhibit hall added for the 2009 show. The Worcester County Liquor Control Board will anchor the main ballroom and will feature the latest in spirits, including the newest vodka tasting like sweet tea. Product samples and demonstrations are plentiful during the two-day expo.
In addition to exploring green topics, other seminars are being added. For the latest seminars, be sure to visit www.oceancitytradeexpo.com.
