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Top Ten Reasons to Attend the Supply Summit & Showcase

10. Education: Smart Decisions Start with the Right Insights

Want to sharpen your leadership and critical thinking skills? Curious about what truly drives success, health, and happiness at every level? Wondering how AI and automation are shaping the future of farm equipment?

Want to sharpen your leadership and critical thinking skills? Curious about what truly drives success, health, and happiness at every level? Wondering how AI and automation are shaping the future of farm equipment?

At the Supply Summit, you’ll hear about a groundbreaking study of 750 farmers and how their attitudes influence purchasing decisions. Plus, learn how manufacturers can harness AI to enhance their marketing efforts.

9. Perspective: Step Away to See the Bigger Picture

Making time to step away from the daily grind isn’t easy—but it’s worth it. Many attendees, including Ben Hellbusch, former Association Board Member President from Duo Lift Manufacturing, have experienced firsthand the value of stepping away.
“It’s tough to pull away, but the moment you get to a meeting, you realize how valuable it is. Stepping back from the day-to-day clears your mind. You hear what others in the industry are doing, gain fresh ideas, and see the bigger picture.”

8. Fun: Fort Myers has Something for Everyone

Whether you’re up for exploring the waterfront, soaking in some history, or just enjoying great food with industry friends, Fort Myers delivers. From beautiful beaches and outdoor adventures to top-notch restaurants and a lively cultural scene, there’s no shortage of ways to make the most of your time outside the conference. Work hard, connect, but make time to have fun while you’re here!

7. Solutions: Connections Lead to the Right Solutions

Every year, we hear stories of manufacturers finding exactly what they need—sometimes by chance—at the Product Showcase. As one former Association President puts it: “You might walk past a booth, see a product, and think, ‘This is close to what we need, but can it be adjusted?’ More often than not, the supplier says, ‘If you’re ready to buy, we can make it happen.’”

6. Tech, Tunes, and TopGolf

This year, FEMA is pulling out all the stops to celebrate our 75th anniversary at the Supply Summit & Showcase in Fort Myers, FL. We’ve added exciting new activities to the schedule, including a Technology Track, TopGolf Tournament, and a musical farewell party with Bruce the Piano Man! Get ready to learn, play, and sing along to celebrate 75 years of industry connections.

5. Networking: Build Connections that Drive Success

Building strong relationships is crucial to success, and this meeting is all about doing just that. “Networking is key, and I’ve built lasting relationships at the Summit over the years,” says Craig Harthoorn, Association President from OXBO Forage Division. “At every Summit, I reconnect with familiar faces and meet new people. It’s always an opportunity to gain fresh insights and discover new ways to tackle challenges.”

4. Value: Get More Than You Expect

The Summit offers incredible value. Attendees consistently find that the knowledge and insights gained—especially around topics like distribution law—are well worth the investment. “The valuable takeaways always end up more than justifying the cost of attending and membership fees,” says Steve Hathaway, FEMA Executive Vice President.

3. Productivity: Maximize Time and Build Connections

There’s no better place to maximize your time than the Summit. This is your chance to meet with supplier companies representing parts, materials, and service providers from around the world—all in one place. Over four days, you can engage with suppliers, gain insights from industry experts, and exchange ideas with fellow colleagues.

2. Growth: Drive Business Expansion
The Summit can drive growth for your business. Many attendees have met key decision-makers and expanded their reach in the ag market, gaining valuable connections that have helped their companies thrive. It’s a great opportunity to position your business for continued success and growth within the industry.

 1. Innovation: Embrace New Ideas and Technologies

Fort Myers offers a unique opportunity to explore fresh ideas, from the latest advancements in AI for marketing and equipment manufacturing to gaining valuable insights from the Legacies Panel, where experienced industry peers share their knowledge.