International Builders Show, Orlando, FL.

A view from the floor at this year’s 2007 International Builders’ Show. Nearly 104,000 housing professionals gathered in Orlando February 7–10 for the 2007 International Builders’ Show, the industry’s largest annual light construction trade show and exhibition, in Orlando, Fla. With more than 1,900 leading suppliers in 300 industry categories, the exposition was the largest in IBS history with a record one million net square feet of exhibits showcasing the most innovative products and services aimed specifically at the residential and light commercial construction industries. Jana Daly, who heads up residential business development, and Mark Tomei, account manager at our Concord branch, attended the expo to gain a greater understanding of the housing market as well as to view new products and technologies, especially those that may meet the needs of our customers. They met with more than 100 vendors focused solely on the electrical aspect of homebuilding. Not surprisingly, two of the biggest focuses at the event, sponsored by the National Association of Home Builders, were green building and home technology. Daly and Tomei gathered valuable information in these important areas, including the latest technologies in lighting and lighting controls, structured wiring, home automation, ventilation fans, central vacs, and electrical equipment. Green building is prevalent in the commercial market and is quickly making its way into the residential market as homeowners become increasingly aware of the economic and health benefits that result from the initial investment. To learn more about green building and the latest products featured at IBS, contact Jana Daly at jdaly@edi-nc.com or 704.372.3040, ext. 354.