Q&A with Morgan Wilson, Show Manager for the International Fastener Expo
FND Q: Many of us have been attending virtual events over the past months. Can you provide a brief description of what the virtual Match & Meet environment will be like?
Morgan Wilson: With Match & Meet 2020, we’re bringing to our exhibitors and attendees an interactive, AI-powered event to empower them to reconnect with their stakeholders in 2020. While we will miss the face-to-face interaction that we have all grown accustomed to in 40 years of IFE, we’re confident that Match & Meet will be the next best thing. Through this easy-to-use platform, you will be able to connect with the right buyers and sellers, explore a wide range of products of all categories, and attend educational sessions run by industry experts. As a bonus, you will also join us digitally at IFE’s annual Awards Ceremony, as we recognize inductees into the Hall of Fame and the recipient of the Young Fastener Professional Award.
FND Q: Can you tell us what decision-making process went into choosing the right platform for the fastener industry?
MW: Having attended months of virtual events ourselves, we wanted to ensure a seamless and stress-free experience for our exhibitors and attendees. We wanted to take the hassle out of setting up a virtual booth or profile and provide a virtually turnkey experience. The user experience was a key factor in our decision to use our current digital platform, Swapcard. We understand networking is an important aspect of IFE for our exhibitors and attendees. Through Match & Meet, all users can easily find, connect and digitally meet with whomever they like – whether exhibitor, attendee, speaker or press! Not only this, our AI-powered platform creates an experience custom to each user. The system learns what type of content you are interested in and tailors its suggestions for “people you should meet” based on this.
In addition to matchmaking, the platform also makes it very easy for users to connect over audio and video calls – with the click of a button! Users can also schedule meetings in advance at pre-defined time slots. To make the process even easier, there is no need to share third-party meeting links. You can start meetings right in the platform at any time you like.
FND Q: What Fastener Companies can we expect to see at the virtual event? Will there be international exhibitors?
MW: All the people that you expect to meet at the in-person show will be there! Confirmed exhibitors at IFE include Brighton-Best International, Wurth Industry North America, Advance Components, INxSQL, Star Stainless, Industrial Rivet & Fastener Co., to name just a few. Confirmed international exhibitors include Spec Products Corp. and J.C. Grand Corporation.
FND Q: Will attendees be able to interact via live chat in a booth environment?
MW: Yes! Attendees are able to send live chat messages to all exhibitors and to other attendees as well.
FND Q:: What knowledge and insight can exhibitors and attendees expect to walk away from this event with?
MW: As with our live event, we will incorporate technical seminars, content relating to new technology including 3D printing, and other engaging topics for the Fastener Industry. Also don’t forget to watch our HOF and YFP awards to learn more about each winner’s achievements.
FND Q: What type of programs will be available to registrants?
A: Aside from the matchmaking and networking component of the event, we are bringing a digital conference agenda as well. Key topics of interest will be addressed by industry experts across the two days. In addition, many exhibitors are working to offer show specials including digital happy hours and gifts to attendees that visit their e-booth! Registration is open on www.fastenershows.com; the sooner that you register, the more comfortable you can be with the digital platform, ultimately enhancing your experience!
Here’s what you can look forward to…
Book a digital booth at Match & Meet and get ready for access to a range of exciting new features! Match & Meet’s digital platform’s powerful Artificial Intelligence capabilities will automatically match you with the attendees that you are looking to meet. Here are just some of the features that you can take advantage of…
- Network
Connect with hundreds of attendees through 1:1 video meetings directly in-app – no third-party meeting app required! - Learn
Get access to a robust conference schedule with sessions and panels on technology, market challenges and more! - Schedule
Manage your (and your team’s) calendar and meetings through an in-app calendar for no-conflict scheduling and tracking. - Choose the booth tier that suits your needs. Visit fastenershows.com for details on booth pricing and benefits!
Fastener News Desk is looking forward to the Match and Meet event coming November 11-12th! Virtual events are a great opportunity to stay connected with the industry, and network from the comfort of your office or home office. The future definitely will include virtual events and meetings, so we’re ready to experience the IFE’s Match and Match virtual event! See you there!
Related Content:
International Fastener Expo, The Fastener Museum, Uncategorized
