ConExpo-Con/Agg 2014 kicks off March 4 in Las Vegas. This particular issue of Rock Products will not only be distributed at the event, it will land on our reader’s desks several weeks in advance of the show. This will give aggregates industry professionals ample opportunity to peruse our extensive ConExpo-Con/Agg editorial section spotlighting many of the key companies and hot products on the show floor.
This time around, ConExpo-Con/Agg comes at a critical juncture. With economic reports sounding an optimistic note about growth in the construction industry and increases in aggregates production, the time has never been better to capitalize with new equipment, technology and services.
On page 48 of this issue, you will find the results of an exclusive Rock Products Survey, Benchmark 2014. It is interesting to note what aggregates producers intend to purchase this year.
A whopping 65 percent of survey respondents are looking to make equipment upgrades, while 58 percent are focused on new equipment.
Items set to get a close look are plant additions, technology upgrades, mine development and of special interest: 10 percent of those surveyed plan to invest in new plants.
Over and above consumables, such as oil and tires, the top equipment areas being considered for 2014 are drilling and blasting supplies and services; screening and sizing equipment; material handling and conveying equipment; and excavators, loaders and dredges.
Expect ConExpo-Con/Agg to be a buying show, that’s for sure.
At press time, the show had recorded its best week of registration ever and advance registration is tracking ahead of the last event. The show is already a record-breaker in terms of exhibit space – more than 2.3 million net sq. ft. indoors and outdoors
New education sessions on the latest hot-button industry issues have also been added to an already comprehensive line-up of focused learning and certification opportunities.
This will be my eighth ConExpo-Con/Agg show and I fully expect it to be the best. I will see you in Las Vegas.
Mark S. Kuhar, editor
[email protected]
(330) 722-4081
Member: Construction Writers Association