The 2000 Panamerican Expo was held July 19–21 at the World Trade Center in Mexico City.

The 2000 Panamerican Expo was held July 19–21 at the World Trade Center in Mexico City. The event was co-sponsored by the FSCT, ANAFAPYT and the Mexico Society for Coatings Technology. The event drew about 3,000 attendees representing the coatings, adhesives and ink industries.

According to Harry Way, Netzsch Inc., the attitude of the attendees was a lot more positive than in the past. Due to the growth in Latin America, attendees were looking to update their technology. Both the technical conferences and the products on display at the show were helpful and answered questions for attendees looking to make the right purchasing decision.

It seemed that all the exhibitors that I had a chance to chat with agreed with Harry Way. Since Latin America is one of the fastest growing areas, the suppliers to this industry want and need to be right in their customers’ face. They want to provide the latest technology, and attending this event helps them to know their customers’ needs.

It was amazing that, while covering the 59 exhibitions, I could tell when the siesta hour struck, and when the locals got out of work. What a difference the evening hours made! I wish I could have been a mouse in each booth to hear the business that was being conducted. It seemed that the magic time for serious business and orders to be taken was after 5 p.m.

Overall, the exhibitors seemed content with the quality of people attending this event, and look forward to next year. Just a word to the wise: If 2001 will be your first time in Mexico City, don’t leave home without Lomatil!