LOUISVILLE, Ky. — The Mid-America Trucking Show (MATS), which claims to be the largest such event in the world, drawing total attendance of 76,563 trucking industry professionals over the three-day event, was held last month in Louisville, Ky.
The show’s 1.2 million-square-foot floor featured 1,174 exhibitors from 12 countries. Attendees came from all 50 U.S. states and 48 countries.
"Even the high fuel prices and economic uncertainty could not inhibit MATS as we produced another show for the record books, continuing along the path of growth and refinement established by MATS long ago,” said Toby Young, president of show organizer Exhibit Management Associates. “MATS 2008 reflected the tremendous loyalty and support of the heavy-duty trucking industry to the delight of our attendees, exhibitors and sponsors. It is this loyalty that has been the catalyst for our continued success."
Young also noted the number of special events held during MATS, the 19th Annual Paul K. Young Memorial Truck Beauty Championship, the 4th Annual Mid-America’s Big-Rig Build-Off, the Expediter Experience, Mid-America’s Recruitment Center, MATS’ Internet and Technology Center, and Sugarland in concert presented by Kenworth. Celebrity appearances included Rhonda Vincent, Grammy winner Suzy Bogguss and the Chrome Shop Mafia, to name a few.
Other on-site activities included a "Custom Truck Build" by the members of the television series "Trick My Truck," educational seminars, OEM ride-and-drives, and cash and product giveaways. (Courtesy of Tire Review)
