TTB Expo 2009 a Huge Success!

TTB Expo 2009 was held at the Northern Kentucky Convention Center on June 24 - 26, 2009. More than 700 alcohol and tobacco industry members, attorneys, and consultants attended - which was nearly 150 more participants than attended last year's first-ever Expo.

"With the recent economic instability we were unsure about attendance," Susan Stewart Evans, Expo Co-chair, said of the impressive number of attendees who flocked to the Expo. "This far exceeded last year's attendance as well as our expectations."

The theme this year - "Compliance Through Education" - was evident in every aspect of the Expo:

• More targeted sessions-81 sessions in all!-on industry specific topics;
• One-on-one meetings with industry experts;
• Hands-on training at the 5 booths in the e-Gov Hall; and
• An exhibition hall with 30 subject-specific booths.

The Expo was a unique opportunity to establish ongoing and open dialogue between TTB and the regulated industries. Attendees were able to hear about regulatory developments, learn how to comply with TTB requirements, network with other industry members, and meet with TTB and other Federal and State agency representatives - all in one place.

"Almost one-third of the TTB workforce is here today," stated John Manfreda, TTB Administrator, in his Keynote Address at the opening of the TTB Expo, "because we believe that our duty as your regulator is to provide you with answers and support in meeting all compliance requirements."

Many attendees were reportedly pleasantly surprised by the friendliness and eagerness of the TTB experts. "Very professional event with first class presentations and skilled presenters," one Expo attendee commented. "I'm impressed."

Teresa Kampsen, Expo Co-chair, reported that members of the tobacco industry, who has been grappling with all the new legislation and taxes, commented to her that the Expo couldn't have been held at a better time.

Naturally, the Expo was not all work and no play. The greater Cincinnati area offered participants the chance to network and unwind. Whether sightseeing from a duck's eye view on Greater Cincinnati's only duck tour, or visiting museums or shops in the area, there seemed to be a bit of something for everyone.

Overall, the Expo was well-received and well-attended, and TTB received excellent feedback on the sessions and exhibition booths.

"Having people attend and involved at all levels from industry and our Bureau was a great motivational device," Terri Baston, Expo Co-chair, stated. "We were exposed to other details and ideas that will provide us with a firmer basis for planning for future Expos."