War Expected to Have Minimal Impact on CMM

Published: March 24, 2003, By PRESS RELEASE

NEW YORK, NY, USA—Paperloop Events, CMM International organizers, says the conflict with Iraq should have minimal impact on attendance at CMM International 2003, slated for April 14—17, Chicago, IL, USA.

Leo Nadolske, VP of Paperloop Events, says he believes President Bush and other leaders will once again encourage companies to proceed with "business as usual" in order to keep the economy going. In addition, Nadolske reports that CMM Events is working closely with McCormick Place (CMM's venue) and the City of Chicago to provide the safest possible environment during the show. "The worst thing that can happen to the American and global economy would be for businesses to stop spending and curtail their travel plans and normal activities," states Nadolske. "Inventories are so depleted and pent-up demand is so strong in the converting industry right now that converters can't afford to wait another several months to shop for new equipment and supplies," he adds.

Although Nadolske acknowledges CMM International 2003 will be smaller than previous CMM events, he says this is due mainly to ongoing industry consolidation and the depressed economy, not the Iraq conflict.

This year's CMM will have close to 700 exhibitors and attract an anticipated 25,000 attendees, according to Paperloop Events. While VP Nadolske agrees the conflict in Iraq may reduce the number of international attendees, he doesn't think it will stop most American converters. "I think most converters recognize the best thing they can do right now for the country, the economy, and their businesses is to pursue business as usual."

Get more information about the upcoming Converting Machinery and Materials show at cmmshow.com.