Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort in Orlando, Fla. Distributors from across the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom and Japan welcomed the chance to bask in sunlight … and tools.
And it wasn’t just any old fair.
This year marked “70 years of heritage” for Mac Tools in the industry. A crowd of roughly 3,000 strong showed up for the festivities, in addition to more than 100 vendors.
Events kicked off with a chance for distributors and their families to relax and reunite at the Family Reunion Party with a special live concert by Daryll Worley.
At the kickoff rally the next morning, a crowd of revved-up Mac Tools distributors were treated to jugglers on stilts, acrobats, and pumping music before Mike Murray, the president of Mac Tools, and Dan Picolo, vice president of global sales and services, co-hosted a special presentation on the company’s unique past, present, and future in the industry.
Murray said that his goal as president is to “make it easier for distributors to do business with Mac Tools, and bring new and innovative tools [to technicians].” He emphasized that the Mac Tools’ current focus is on products and innovation, and continuing to deliver quality tools.
“Their livelihood depends on productivity,” Murray said of repair technicians. “We want to continually find ways to help them get that [project done] in minimal time.”
On the show floor, booths were full of the latest innovative tools and equipment. New products were unveiled in all areas, including hardlines, power tools, shop equipment, paint and body, diagnostics and toolboxes. One big announcement in capital equipment was the new partnership Mac Tools has developed with Challenger Lifts.
The new MB1300UC Macsimizer utility cart drew a big crowd at the show. Boasting 23,000 ci of storage capacity, this new cart features a lid that provides dual access by lifting or sliding allowing the work surface to remain flat, in addition to other new features.
For distributors, clinics were given throughout each day demonstrating how to better understand and sell equipment from diagnostics to toolboxes. Distributors were encouraged to exchange their own ideas regarding various aspects of running the business. Clinics focused on everything from managing cash flow to making the most of the Mac Card.
In addition, “electives” were offered in the areas of Business Wellness and Shop Equipment.
The Macdemy awards dinner resembled an Oscar evening, and everyone dressed the part to stroll on the red carpet.
The Mac Tools family celebrated their 70th anniversary in style. From custom cars and bikes to special appearances from celebrities like Chip Foose, and racecar drivers like Matt Kenseth and Doug Kalitta, the tools were the main event. Next year’s Tool Fair is set to be in San Antonio.
