Hayes at SGIA Orlando 2013

Ed Urlik and Ron Reyes (Black Flag)

Me with Ron Reyes, singer for Black Flag

This year marked the first time we have exhibited at the SGIA Show in Orlando. SGIA Orlando was a unique experience, as we have never exhibited so far away from home – over 2,500 miles! Regardless, it was definitely time well spent. The show gave us the opportunity to see many of our existing customers and vendors, as well as meet several new customers from all over the United States and South America.

While exhibiting, I was grateful to have the opportunity to catch up with good friends Göran Johansson, the inventor of the ROLLSROLLER, and Ron Reyes, the singer of Black Flag. I spent some quality time with Göran’s team at the show. I also hung out with Ron at the Hayes booth, where we discussed the graphics industry, and reminisced about the old days of the both of us playing music for the same record labels: Cruz & SST Records.

Ed with Göran Johansson of ROLLSROLLER

Me with Göran Johansson, inventor of the ROLLSROLLER

I spent the remainder of the show meeting with some of our vendors, including R-Tape, Avery, Roland, Mutoh, SS LED, YelloTools, Vandal Guard, Magnum Magnetics, 3M, and Arlon. I even got the chance to spend a nice evening with Paul Bement and Gerber. As I stood there looking around the convention hall, I felt a true “industry” bond with everyone working at the show, and every attendee. This industry has so many remarkable people working in it, many of whom I am lucky enough to call my friends.

Unfortunately, I didn’t get to sightsee or visit any local attractions while in Orlando. The majority of my time was spent at the expo. Maybe next time!

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