(Alexandria, VA) – The International Sleep Products Association (ISPA) announced that ISPA EXPO 2014, held March 26-29, in New Orleans, LA, was one of its most successful shows in EXPO history. The nearly 3,300 attendees saw the very latest in machinery, components, services and technology from a record-setting 214 exhibitors from 23 countries in the vibrant city of New Orleans.

EXPO attendees also participated in networking events, receptions and top-notch educational sessions on topics ranging from venturing into emerging markets, developing technologies affecting consumers, B2B sales trends and the sleep-health mattress equation.

On Friday, during the Industry Breakfast, Luke Williams, professor of innovation at NYU and author of Disrupt: Think the Unthinkable to Spark Transformation in Your Business, challenged the audience to spark transformation in their own companies by embracing “disruptive thinking” and taking the steps to incorporate disruptive strategies and unexpected solutions to stay ahead of the game.

Feedback from event attendees was overwhelmingly positive. “The show is well organized and the quality of the exhibits was excellent. Attending EXPO is the most time-efficient way to see multiple suppliers and the latest trends. If you don’t go, you’re missing out on seeing all kinds of valuable resources.” said Alvin Kaplan, vice president/principal of Just Born in White Plains, NY.

During one of EXPO’s best networking opportunities, Wednesday’s Welcome Reception, the industry band, the Insomniaczzz, had the crowd dancing and singing along. It provided the perfect opportunity to mingle with new business acquaintances and see old friends.

Ryan Trainer, president of ISPA remarked, “I think our record-breaking numbers reflect the enthusiasm and optimism that’s been building throughout the mattress industry. ISPA staff worked hard to make sure this EXPO provided something for everyone.“

On the heels of this successful EXPO, plans are already underway for the 2016 event in Orlando, FL March 9-12.

“We always come to EXPO. In fact, my first show was 31 years ago! Almost everything you see is new, from machinery to materials. We get new ideas for designs and it’s also an important opportunity to meet and socialize with old friends.” commented Manuel Lopez Castillejos, director general for Colchones Wendy/Serta in Guadalajara, Mexico.

For more information on the show and the exhibitors, you can visit www.bedtimesmagazine.com

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Established in 1915, the International Sleep Products Association (ISPA) is dedicated to protecting and enhancing the growth, profitability and stature of the mattress industry.  As the industry’s trade organization, ISPA is the voice of the mattress industry, representing mattress manufacturers and suppliers throughout the world. ISPA provides a wide range of services that benefit its membership.  These include exclusive industry surveys and statistics, advocacy support, educational offerings, the industry’s ISPA EXPO trade show, safety research through its Sleep Products Safety Council, consumer research and education through its Better Sleep Council, BedTimes and Sleep Savvy publications, and more.

To learn more, visit www.sleepproducts.org or contact [email protected].