California Rental Association began its Rental Rally Tradeshow yesterday, with more than 130 exhibitors participating and more than 100 rental companies attending. While most exhibitors interviewed by RER didn’t necessarily expect huge sales, they welcomed the opportunity to connect with long-time California rental customers and possibly develop new customers.
The tradeshow, held at a congenial venue at the Pomona, Calif., Fairplex, included an outdoor aerial equipment area as well as a digging demo area where attendees could take the opportunity to try out equipment such as backhoes, trenchers and other earthmoving equipment.
At the opening ceremony, held at the National Hot Rod Museum, RER editor Michael Roth presented the James Gartland Award, named for the founder of RER, given annually to a rental person, or service provider in recognition of their contributions to the rental industry. This year the award was given to James Jenkins, whose James Jenkins Insurance Agency was formed in 1987 as an insurance captive for CRA members. As CRA executive director Dale Blackwell said, Jenkins “always kept the insurance board on the appropriate track with his integrity and knowledge.”
CRA also presented the annual W.E. “Bud” Loeber Friendship Award in honor of the late Bud Loeber, former CRA official known for his helpful attitude, humor and kind personality, to former CRA board member and rental company co-owner Linda Bradley.
Rental attendees were enthusiastic about the Rental Rally for the opportunity to network, attend seminars and have opportunities to interact with exhibitors in a relaxed atmosphere, as well as the outdoor demo opportunities.
