FLUSHING, N.Y. - Over 4,000 HVACR contractors, owners, and industry-related individuals attended ABCO Refrigeration Supply’s 28th annual ABCO Expo in November at Terrace on the Park in Flushing, Queens.

The expo focused on the regulatory and compliance requirements facing the HVACR industry and the resulting migration towards environmentally conscious, energy-efficient products. With many upcoming changes taking effect as of Jan. 1, 2009, ABCO Refrigeration worked with its exhibitors to ensure attendees were informed and prepared to handle the transitions.

Nearly 200 HVACR manufacturers including Luxaire, Mitsubishi, Reznor, Copeland, Heatcraft, Sporlan, Scotsman, Tecumseh, and DuPont showcased their products and had representatives on-site to educate show attendees on new technologies and applications. The expo also offered a series of free Quick Tech seminars.

“With economic conditions so challenging, it was particularly gratifying to see at the expo this year the camaraderie among ABCO Refrigeration, our valued manufacturers, and our irreplaceable customers,” said Michael Senter, CEO of ABCO Refrigeration Supply. “The turnout among customers was the largest in the 28-year history of our trade show, but even more importantly, the conversations about products and innovations, particularly those that enhance energy efficiency or support a green environment, were more intense than ever.

“I think everyone understands that the HVACR industry must be part of the solution to these challenges as opposed to reluctant participants or passive observers. I think we also understand that by taking responsibility for change, we engage not only our organizations, but we also engage the communities we serve. At our expo this year, this forward looking outlook provided moral support for everyone as we face these very tough economic times.”

Stanley H. Berger, CEO of Arista Air Conditioning Corp., Long Island City, N.Y., offered an attendee’s point of view. “I personally have been attending ABCO’S expo since its inception,” he said. “What always amazes me in looking around at the attendees is their quest for the latest products, innovations, and new techniques in our industry.

“ABCO has a special way of making everyone feel very welcomed. All appreciate their hospitality. I see my own technicians and engineers engaging in conversation with those displaying their products - and the next day coming back to our offices and telling our parts and warehouse people that we have to try this or that or asking why don’t we buy and install a particular type of equipment.”

Publication date: 12/22/2008