The Ohio Florists’ Association (OFA) Short Course dispelled concerns that energy problems and a slowing economy may affect the turnout of floriculture professionals to the 2001 Ohio Short Course, with the Short Course and Trade Show attracting 10,000 attendees.

     According to attendee information collected by organizers, attendees are staying longer to take in more of the trade show and educational sessions. Dennis Kirven, OFA executive director explains: “Attendees are saying that they’ve had to cut travel costs this year because of the energy crunch. But overwhelmingly, people say that the Short Course is the one show they have to attend — even during the economic slowdown.”.

     Registration numbers were up in many sectors, with the retail and interior plantscape segments enjoying a good turnout. Over 200 people came to watch world famous designers as part of the Sunday Retail Florist Seminar Package.

     A combined educational symposium and all-industry trade show, the Short Course also broke records with its exhibitor participation, with the trade show welcoming 520 companies in 1230 booths, the largest ever in the show’s 72-year history. International representation was also apparent on the trade show floor, with representation from a contingency of companies from Germany and Holland in their own pavilions..

     “The timing with this show was right,” confirms Wendy McAtee, OFA Trade Show manager. “The market is right for European companies to start marketing in the U.S., and they know the buyers come here.”.

     The Ohio Short Course will return to the Greater Columbus Convention Center, Columbus, OH, July 13 to 17. The Short Course is set for July 13 to 17, with the trade show held July 14 to 16..

     For more information, contact the OFA, 2130 Stella Crt., Ste. 200, Columbus, OH 43215-1033, Tel: 614-487-1117, Fax: 614-487-1216, E-mail: ofa@ofa.org, Web: www.ofa.org.