Take a few minutes to check out the educational opportunities. Our industry thrives on information and there are many great sessions that you should be a part of.  (I am doing a seminar on the value of having a positive workplace culture on Friday at 4 p.m. I’d love to see you there!) 

Use the exhibitor list. You can certainly find brands that you want to see, but you can also search by key words to find companies showing products that you are looking for. I typed in the word “bread” and found 115 exhibitors that matched.

Remember that we are an industry built on “new.” Make sure that you check out the New Products Showcases in the lobbies. You can find many great new brands and products by checking out the NEXT pavilion on the third floor. Also, this is the first year that Expo West will be using the arena of the convention center!

Remember the Expo West app that works on all platforms of smart phones. You can build a schedule and have it available to keep you heading in the right direction as you (and more than 60,000 of your closest friends) make your way through the convention center.

There are tours, networking events, a Vitamin Angels event, morning yoga and even a free breakfast. While the show floor is a highlight, it is not the only thing to be aware of at this show.