2019 MHEDA Convention and Show-Set the Stage for What’s Next

Posted on Apr 25, 2019 in Featured, Features

If “All the world’s a stage” does your material handling organization have the right people in the right roles to generate memorable performances? Do your customers have a distinct reason to do business with you? What are the defining trends that will impact you both professionally and personally?

Business is changing faster than ever before. New generations are a bigger part of your team and customer base. Recruiting and retaining quality talent is crucial to move forward. Digital marketing, automation and new technology continue to dominate the conversation. Effectively managing taxes and vendor relationships gives you that extra edge.

Make plans now to attend MHEDA’s 2019 Annual Convention this spring at the beautiful JW Marriott Desert Ridge Resort in Phoenix, Arizona. We’ve designed an exciting agenda filled with programs and presenters to help your business succeed.

When you are not busy learning and networking, plan on taking some time to enjoy Phoenix’s perpetual sunshine, serene desert gardens, one-of-a-kind museums and award-winning dining. Make sure these can’t-miss spots are on your Phoenix to-do list: Camelback Mountain, Musical Instrument Museum, Desert Botanical Garden, Heard Museum and Old Town Scottsdale.

Register today and make sure your business has the tools to “Set the Stage for What’s Next!” 

Keynote Presentation

IT’S YOUR SHIP: ACHIEVING BREAKTHROUGH PERFORMANCE

When Mike Abrashoff took command of the USS Benfold, morale was low, turnover was high and the ship’s

performance ranked near the bottom of the Pacific Fleet. Just twelve months later Benfold was ranked #1 – using the

very same crew. The lesson was clear: leadership matters. This inspiring session will provide you with practical

and usable ways to take organizational performance to new heights. Presented by Michael Abrashoff, Former

Commander, USS Benfold and Author of “It’s Your Ship” on Monday, May 6th from 8:30 am – 9:30 am

General Sessions

ECONOMIC OUTLOOK: THE 2020-2023 BUSINESS CYCLE

Barring more international turmoil resulting from trade adjustments, we should be seeing positive leading

indicators pointing to stronger growth by the time we exit 2019. We will look at which ones to focus on and just

how good the rising trend might be. We are in a period of prosperity but that doesn’t mean it is without bouts of

cyclical decline. Planning and timing the cycle will help you increase profitability. Presented by Brian Beaulieu, CEO, ITR

Economics on Monday, May 6th from 1:30 pm – 2:30 pm

RECRUIT AND RETAIN THE NEXT GENERATION OF LEADERS

By 2020, more than 50% of your consumer and employee base will be people aged 28 – 40 years old. What that means for us is that the time is now to ensure our team has the skills and strategies to effectively communicate, motivate, engage and sell our products, services, and business to this significant demographic. Ryan Avery dives right in and shares the top strategies on how to recruit and

retain the next generation of leaders. Presented by Ryan Avery, Keynote Speaker, AveryToday, Inc. on Tuesday, May 7th from 8:45 am – 10:00 am

STRESS-PROOF YOUR BRAIN

Stress-Proof Your Brain will help you understand what happens to your brain and cognitive function during and after stress. This comprehension will help you hone in on how it’s affecting your performance, both professionally as well as personally. You will be able to stay focused, make strategic decisions, have sound judgment and not be a victim of anxiety in the face of stress. In the process, you will also improve your energy, fitness, sleep and resiliency. Presented by Jenny Evans, CEO, PowerHouse Performance,

on Tuesday, May 7th from 12:30 pm – 1:30 pm 

Exhibitor Showcase

The Exhibitor Showcase features over 90 companies who provide products and solutions for material handling distributors. You are invited to walk the show floor to network with exhibitors and learn how they can help your company succeed and better serve your customers. We encourage you to take the time to review the list of exhibiting companies so you can plan on visiting those booths. It’s a great way to enhance your convention experience on a personal and professional level.

Workshops

GO FROM A TO THE®: STOP BEING A LEADER. START BEING THE LEADER

Today’s consumers, employees and followers want THE product, THE solution and THE leader to follow. Attend this session and gain communication methods top leaders use to persuade, engage, and retain top talent and customers. Also learn storytelling strategies that masterfully allow leaders to connect across diverse generations and cultures. Presented by Ryan Avery, Keynote Speaker, AveryToday, Inc.

AUTOMATION SOLUTIONS INSIGHTS

This session will review the Automated Solutions your customers are demanding. Vision, strategies and technological tactics will be covered, giving you insights to automation tools for delivering superior fulfillment services as a competitive advantage. We’ll place an emphasis on real-world examples as well as audience Q&A. You’ll come away with actionable ideas and discover avenues for operational efficiency. Presented by David Schwebel, Vice President of Business Development and Market Intelligence, Swisslog Logistics

DIGITAL MARKETING HACKS TO GROW YOUR BUSINESS

What are the insider tips and techniques the world’s best digital marketers use to grow their sales and revenues? Learn consumer behavior secrets to improve your digital marketing click-through rate by 5% or more; increase the open rate on your e-newsletters by up to 20% and improve the conversion rate on your landing pages by 10% or more. Presented by Jamie Turner, CEO, SIXTY

YOUR TAX BILL IS TOO HIGH: STRATEGIES FOR REDUCING YOUR CORPORATE AND INDIVIDUAL TAX EXPENSES

Minimizing your tax expense will free up capital to invest, hire, save and help you grow your business. The recent tax reform legislation is one of the largest changes to the tax code in a while. You don’t need to be a financial expert to understand, you just need to know the right questions to ask your accountant. Presented by Gene Marks, Business Columnist and Owner of Marks Group PC

TECH 2019: THE LATEST TECHNOLOGIES, TRENDS, SERVICES AND TOOLS EVERY BUSINESS NEEDS TO KNOW

Learn how smart business owners are increasing revenues from their existing customers using customer relationship management technology; reducing exposure to data breaches and other losses by selecting and implementing the right security applications; and improving employee productivity with the latest collaboration and communication tools. Presented by Gene Marks, Business Columnist and Owner of Marks Group PC 

MEMBER PANEL: IMPROVING MANUFACTURER DISTRIBUTOR RELATIONSHIPS

Maintaining the symbiotic relationship between the manufacturer and distributor is critical to meet the demands of the end-user. Hear from MHEDA Members who will discuss this vital partnership, methods of effective communication and how efficient processes will create win-win solutions to deliver world class customer service and the achievement of mutual success.

HOW TO BECOME DIFFERENTIATED IN THE EYES OF YOUR CUSTOMER: BECOME CUSTOMER OBSESSED

Without the ability to truly differentiate in the eyes of the customer, companies will be forced to compete on price, delivery, and terms…all components of being a commodity. There is a better (and much more profitable) way to operate in this Customer Economy…become CUSTOMER OBSESSED. Learn how some of the most successful companies in the world are reaping the rewards from this strategy. Presented by Blaine Millet, President, WOM10

MAXIMIZING THE VALUE OF YOUR BUSINESS

Whether you are contemplating a transition or simply want to learn how to increase the value of your company, this presentation will serve as a guide to help you know your options. Review current market conditions and the importance of running your company with a seller’s mindset, regardless of whether or not you plan to sell. Look at drivers that impact the value of your business and the types of exits to consider based on your goals. Presented by Will Burnett, Managing Director and Jessica Borowy, Vice President; Owner Resource Group 

Special Events 

WOMEN IN INDUSTRY BREAKFAST & PRESENTATION 

CONFIDENT YOU: BOLD, ENERGIZED & RESILIENT 

Confidence is the foundation for becoming a strong leader, pursuing challenge and taking risks. Lack of confidence not  only holds women back, it holds companies back. Businesses lose out on innovation and productivity, while individuals miss out on opportunity and career advancement. Close the confidence gap in your organization and foster

a culture of high-performing women on paths of improved self-assurance, performance and advancement. This program is available for all women attendees. Pre-registration is required. Presented by Jenny Evans, CEO, PowerHouse Performance. Tuesday, May 7th from 7:00 am – 8:45 am. 

FISHBOWL NETWORKING 

Extended time in 2019!

Looking for a unique way to network with your material handling peers at MHEDA’s Convention? Join us for “Fishbowl Networking!” You will have the opportunity to share your perspective and experience on a variety of current industry issues ranging from changing buying preferences, next gen knowledge transfer, labor shortages and so much more! Topics will be picked out of a fishbowl. Don’t like the topic you pick? Throw it back in and pick another! It’s a fun, interactive way to learn from your peers. Monday, May 6th from 3:00 pm – 4:15 pm. 

MHEDA GIVES BACK 

Phoenix Children’s Hospital

Brighten the spirits of kids staying at Phoenix’s Children’s Hospital by packing assorted care kits for them and their family members. MHEDA Convention attendees are invited to participate in this Give Back activity and assemble over 1,000 kits filled with art supplies, puzzles, toys, stickers and more. Don’t miss this chance to do good for the community! MHEDA is accepting monetary donations for this event. Funds received will be put towards the purchase of additional care kits. Tuesday, May 7th from 3:30 pm – 4:30 pm. Pre-Registration is required for this free event.  

Optional Activities

RIVER FLOAT TOUR

Take a scenic ride down the cool water of the Salt River and enjoy the beauty of the Arizona desert from a different perspective. During the float, your guide will explain the unique habitat of the Sonoran Desert, the importance of the rivers in the ancient and contemporary settlements of the valley, and the history of the local communities. Saturday, May 4th from 12:00 pm – 4:00 pm.

GOLF TOURNAMENT

MHEDA will host a tournament at the Faldo Championship Course, which is part of the JW Marriott, Wildfire Golf Club. It features generous fairways, large greens and multiple tee boxes. The surrounding mountains and century-old saguaro cacti provide a spectacular setting. Includes breakfast and lunch. Sunday, May 5th from 7:00 am – 2:00 pm.

GUIDED DESERT HIKE TOUR

Explore the beautiful McDowell Mountain Regional Park as we enjoy a guided twohour hike along the Gateway Loop Trail. We’ll examine the unique adaptations of our cacti and desert vegetation, and discuss the lifeways and survival strategies of the animals that make this arid land home. Please note: hikers will be split up based on level and pace. Hike will range from two to four miles. Sunday, May 5th from 8:00 am – 11:00 am.

Spouses/Guests

MARGARITA CLASS & LUNCH AT SOL COCINA

Break the ice by adding tequila! Our fun and instructional hand-crafted margarita class is perfect for any occasion. After the mixology class, relax, enjoy your drinks and indulge in street tacos and guacamole at the tasty and festive Sol Cocina. Monday, May 6th from 11:00 am – 3:00 pm.

WOMEN IN INDUSTRY BREAKFAST & PRESENTATION: CONFIDENT YOU

For a detailed description, see page 4 of MHEDA Brochure. Tuesday, May 7th from 7:00 am – 8:45 am.

HANDWRITING ANALYSIS & LUNCH AT ARCADIA FARMS

Learn about yourself in a unique way, through this handwriting analysis special event! You will copy a paragraph and have the  analyst tell you how your writing styles reflect different parts of your personality. Afterwards enjoy a lovely luncheon and mimosas at the stylishly rustic Arcadia Farms. Tuesday, May 7th from 11:30 am – 3:00 pm.

MONDAY AND TUESDAY LUNCH AT THE HOTEL

Planning on staying at the hotel and want to join your spouse for lunch? Please register and we’ll save you a spot! Monday, May 6th from 12:30 pm – 1:30 pm and Tuesday, May 7th from 11:30 am – 12:30 pm. 

About the Hotel

This resort welcomes business travelers with an array of premium amenities and friendly service. Take advantage of the five  sparkling pools, lazy river, waterslide, and on-site fitness facility. Revive Spa provides a tranquil respite from a busy day, and the golf club welcomes you to test your swing on two championship courses. The hotel has a dining option for nearly every craving, from casual poolside fare to fine dining.

All of the resort guest rooms boast lovely views through oversized windows, pampering bedding, plush robes and luxury amenities. Some rooms offer private walk-out balconies with striking mountain, pool or golf club views. Explore Scottsdale, Cave Creek, and Desert Ridge Marketplace during your stay at this multiple award-winning resort in northern Phoenix, AZ.

The hotel is located approximately 20 miles from the Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport.

To learn more about MHEDA’s convention, visit www.mheda.org/convention2019 or call 847-680-3500.