The World of Concrete and The Rental Show aren't just another two trade shows on the grueling year-long exhibit calendar.

They're the first opportunity for construction professionals to see what's new and who's new while discovering better ways to strengthen their business.

The World of Concrete, the globe's premier concrete and masonry showcase, opened more than 80,000 pairs of eyes in Las Vegas mid-January - a record for the event now in it's 33rd year. The Multiquip companies, along with another 1,800 exhibitors were there too, demonstrating not only everything contractors needed to boost the bottom line but their presence alone leaving little doubt over the continuing robust state of the construction industry.

Multiquip, STOW Construction Equipment and Sanders Saws needed seven booths to contain an extensive inventory of concrete and masonry products.

Among the most talked about new product introductions in one indoor and six outdoor booths were innovative new pavement saws with patented Stay Level Handles (SLH), Jimmy (rebar) Benders, plate compactors with the new anti-vibration handle system (AVS), and the fuel-efficient DLW Series welder/generator. All were the centers of attention supporting the traditional Multiquip draws - Whiteman power trowels, Mayco concrete pumps and portable generators.   
 
The Rental Show, for years the bread and butter event for Multiquip and MQ Power, celebrated its 50th birthday in Orlando early February. As with any milestone of that magnitude, the gathering was as much about the party as it was the trade show.

Rental operators are no strangers to Multiquip. They've long recognized the Carson, California-based firm as one of the elite equipment suppliers and pivotal in the development of North American's rental industry. For years, American Rental Association members also laughed with Multiquip at the annual fundraising Comedy Night.

This year, a twist. "Rock, Roll & Rent" captivated 1,500 entertainment fans for hours on the final evening of the show. The spectacular Illuminations: Reflections of Earth pyrotechnics and fireworks performance, coupled with an elaborate reception-style dinner, live music, dancing and 1950s outfits turned out to be the social hit of the show.

Indeed, the mood is set for another spectacular year on the heels of a gigantic 2005. Share it with us. 
 
Next year, the World of Concrete takes place Jan. 23-26 in Las Vegas while The Rental Show returns to Atlanta, the site of the 2004 event, Feb. 7-10.