The Farwest Show was first organized in 1973 to create a platform where nursery and greenhouse professionals could gather, share knowledge, and drive the industry forward. Today, the show attracting thousands of attendees and hundreds of exhibitors from across the country and beyond. This year, the show returns to the Oregon Convention Center in Portland in Oregon from August 21-23, 2024.
"The Farwest Show is more than just an event; it's a cornerstone of the industry. Whether you are a seasoned professional or new to the field, the Farwest Show offers something for everyone. This event promises the opportunity for networking, education, and business growth," comments Beth Farmer, Director of Marketing and Member Services at the Oregon Association of Nurseries (OAN). The OAN organizes the trade show, which upcoming edition is expected to feature over 300 exhibiting companies and an estimated 4,000+ attendees.
An impression of the show floor
"Connect, learn, and thrive"
The Farwest Show is designed for a diverse audience within the industry, including nursery and greenhouse growers, lawn and garden center retailers, landscaping professionals and designers, plant breeders, suppliers, service providers, students, researchers, managers, and leaders. Beth highlights that the show stands out for its educational and networking opportunities, saying: "It's a place where professionals at all levels can connect, learn, and thrive their careers and businesses.
The Farwest Show has comprehensive approach to serving the green industry. It's not just a trade show; it's a dynamic event filled with educational seminars, networking opportunities, and showcases of the latest plant varieties and products. Attendees can earn continuing education credits, including pesticide recertification, which adds significant value for participating."
'Meet the future'
This year's edition will pay special attention to helping green professionals 'Meet the Future'. "The nursery and greenhouse industry is currently experiencing trends such as the rise of sustainable practices, advancements in plant genetics, and an increasing focus on technology integration. The Farwest Show addresses these trends by offering targeted seminars and showcases that provide actionable insights and innovative solutions for attendees, ensuring they stay at the forefront of industry developments. The show has more than 45 educational seminars, including free mini-sessions at the Solution Center on the trade show floor," explains Beth.
A Farwest Show seminar
To that end, the OAN expects to host over 300 exhibitors, and aims to attract a diverse range of exhibitors to showcase the latest trends and innovations in the industry, providing attendees with a broad perspective on what the market has to offer. According to Beth, this year's show has more than 50 new exhibitors.
Likewise, they invited leadership author, motivational speaker, and trained improv comedian, James Robilotta as a keynote speaker. His keynote, entitled 'Do You Even Know Me? How Curiosity Creates Community in the Workplace' promises to provide valuable insights on fostering a mindset of curiosity, asking better questions, and improving listening skills to build stronger connections within the industry.
James Robilotta
Continuity
Aside from this focus on the future and innovation, Beth promises that many of the elements of the Farwest Show itself remain unchanged.
Beth: "Attendees can still look forward to the New Varieties Showcase and the New Products Showcase, which will preview the newest plants and hard goods coming to the marketplace in 2024 and 2025. These showcases are a highlight for many, offering a first look at the cutting-edge developments in the industry. Additionally, the educational seminars will continue to be a cornerstone of the event, providing attendees with actionable insights and knowledge they can take home and use right away."
At the OAN, they believe that this approach makes them well-equipped for the future. "The future of the Farwest Show looks bright, with continued growth and innovation on the horizon. As the industry evolves, the show aims to remain at the forefront, providing a valuable platform for professionals to meet, learn, and drive the industry forward."
For more information:
Farwest Show
www.farwestshow.com
Oregon Association of Nurseries
www.oan.org