The Cutting Edge™ - March 2004

Popular WMMA®/AWFS® Foreign Buyer Program Gears up for IWF

We Need You! Nominate a favorite dealer who is looking for U.S. lines or a buyer with a short list that not only includes your equipment but possibly that of your colleagues. Strengthen your relationship by increasing face time and giving him the funds to see you. Help your colleagues by exposing them to strong and qualified dealers and buyers.

Each member company can nominate up to three representatives handling their lines in other countries or potential buyers interested in your equipment. (You do not need to be an IWF exhibitor to participate.) Click here for a nomination form.

“This is a really great program for Central and South American countries because USA companies can sell technology and new products to Latin Countries. It is great for us (Mexicans) to show Americans that we are serious trading partners. Of course we help each other.” - Gabriel Moreno

Plenty of Chances to Meet with Top Notch Foreign Dealers and Buyers!

WMMA® and AWFS® are arranging a number of opportunities for you to meet the selected recipients:

•  Months before they get here, we will have their profiles on the two Association websites so you can know who they are, where they come from, what lines they carry (or what products are on their short list), and how to get in touch with them.
•  Dealer Day. After a brief welcome and orientation, the delegates will be allowed on the floor to meet with you. Contact them beforehand to make sure they carve out the time to see you.
•  During IWF the foreign buyers will be touring the exhibit halls and using the International Visitors Lounge (located by the registration area) as a home away from home. Again, great opportunities to meet with them at your booth or in the lounge where translators are available and there is a more relaxed atmosphere. If you want to track down one or more of the buyers during show hours, come by the lounge and our assistants will help you hook up.
•  Reception. One night (to be determined) AWFS® and WMMA® will host a reception just as the exhibit hall closes during which each delegate will be recognized. All member exhibitors are invited – once more an opportunity to meet these “high potential” people.

" Mikron is definitely in a better position because of this program.”
- Lynn Arbuthnot, Mikron Woodworking

“[We] established a new dealer in Mexico City and made contacts with other potential dealers.” - Tom Orlando, CTD Machines

Don’t delay! A joint committee will be reviewing nominations based on the date received. Awards will be made in two stages: the first on April 21st and the second in late May or early June. We want to be sure to give the foreign buyers and members plenty of time to exchange information and arrange their schedules.

If you have questions contact:
Harold Zassenhaus, WMMA® Export Director at tel: 301 652 0693; fax: 301 986 1389, Email: zemg@erols.com.