By: Deborah Gantos

It may have been very hot outside (104 degrees), but the atmosphere was warm and friendly on the inside of the Army Navy Military Expo – Chicago. Taking a cue from vendors and buyers alike, the ANME launched the Chicago version of the ANME this past July. And by all accounts it was a success. The inaugural show was presented at the request of many vendors and buyers who liked the idea of a show located in the Midwest. Those of us who were born and live in the Midwest, like to show the “coastals” that we have much to offer in the way of hospitality, friendliness and many great restaurants!

The show exhibited a more intimate setting than the larger venue of the January show in Las Vegas. Thirty-three vendors sold a variety of merchandise:  MRE foods and survival knives, military surplus, cots, outdoors and hydration devices, to name a few. The show attracted over 300 buyers.
The Chicago show also had an international flavor to it. In attendance were exhibitors and buyers from Canada, South America and Mexico. Other attendees traveled all the way from China, Thailand and Africa.  For the January show, David Castlegrant & Associates anticipates an even wider geographical representation.

Buyers and sellers were pleased by the variety of the products. Among those who hail from the middle of these great United States was Lee Sternheimer, sales representative for 40 years in the army navy industry. Sternhemier stated: “I am very enthused about the Castlegrant operation that put together such an exciting, professional show. This was a good time of the year, because it fills the lull. The show gave buyers a pre-jump on the fall. The atmosphere here is great. I can spend more time here and it is less hectic. It seems like everybody that came got what they wanted.”Overall, the Chicago Expo was a success. The exhibitors and buyers were friendly and happy to be there. The accommodations for the show and local hotel were also good. Mark Richard, from Full Metal Jacket said he loved the fact the show was nearby and less costly and easier to get to. He said he hoped to see even more exhibitors for next year’s Chicago show.

For everyone who missed out on this year’s Chicago Expo…well, there’s always next year!

If you are interested in attending the January and/or July Expo or purchasing advertisements,  please give David Castlegrant & Associates a call at: 800-880-2485.