NPA Holds Convention in Anaheim
November, 2004
Logan Hunter-Thompson
Parking professionals from across the globe gathered for four days in September at the Anaheim (CA) Marriott to increase their knowledge, to become acquainted with the latest products and services, and to participate in some of the best networking opportunities available anywhere in the industry. The event was the National Parking Association's 53rd Annual Parking, Transportation and Services Convention & Exposition.
In between an enlivening opening reception and the first annual "Party With a Purpose" completing the event, timely and informative business sessions and roundtable discussions, appealing to all areas of the parking industry drew a wealth of interest and record crowds. Interspersed throughout the conference were engaging social activities that provided a host of vital networking opportunities, for which the NPA conference has become famous.
The exhibit hall, boasting 22 first-time exhibitors, benefited from a consistent, heavy flow of traffic that included key decision-makers:
"We were quite surprised by the number of senior level people in attendance, and have generated a healthy number of high-quality follow-ups." -- David Spittel, VP Operations, Verrus Mobile Technologies.
"This year's NPA was the best yet for us. We look forward to next year, and offer congratulations to the NPA team for making this a productive and meaningful show." -- David Lazowski, Vice President, Sales & Marketing, ZipPark.
"Best NPA show I've done in 23 years." -- Jeff Fitzwilliam, President, Standard Parking Systems.
NPA President Steve Long of Ampco System Parking credits the convention's success to the energy that enveloped it. "Whether in the exhibit hall or during the many sessions, there was a high energy level that carried through the convention."
Marty Stein, NPA Executive Director, echoed the sentiment: "There was positive energy around all facets of the conference, the sum of which resulted in a truly outstanding show. It's a great feeling to know that a U.S.-based membership association, powered by a rich history, can continue to deliver on so many levels year after year."
