Commodity Classic, AG CONNECT Team Up on Shows

November 3, 2013

The Association of Equipment Manufacturers, which runs AG CONNECT Expo & Summit, and the National Corn Growers’ and American Soybean Associations, which jointly run Commodity Classic, will combine their agriculture shows March 2016 in New Orleans.

Commodity Classic is a joint venture owned by the National Corn Growers Association and the American Soybean Association, with National Association of Wheat Growers and National Sorghum Producers participating as affiliates.

The Association of Equipment Manufacturers owns and produces AG CONNECT.

“We have great respect for the professional approach the Commodity Classic has brought to the industry and feel it is consistent with the vision AEM members have designed into the AG CONNECT experience,” said Charlie O’Brien, AEM senior vice president.

He added, “Great things can happen in the industry when leaders work together, have a long-term vision and stay focused.”

The Commodity Classic shows scheduled for 2014 and 2015 will take place as planned, with AG Connect joining in 2016 and continuing as a collocated event on annual basis.

“Commodity Classic and the AG CONNECT experience are two outstanding events for our audiences,” said NCGA President Martin Barbre.

He added, “We recognize how our programs can complement and extend the value for our members, exhibitors and attendees.”

“We both value the power of education and of top-quality interaction among attendees and exhibitors on the showfloor,” said ASA President Danny Murphy.

He added, “Commodity Classic will remain a farmer-led and farmer focused event as it moves forward with our new partner. The timing is now right, and our new event will deliver even more value to all show participants.

Add new comment

Partner Voices
MGM Resorts is committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse culture, not just among employees and guests but also within its supply chain. The company prioritizes procuring goods and services from businesses owned by minorities, women, veterans, people with disabilities, LGBTQ individuals and those facing economic disadvantages. This commitment is integral to MGM Resorts' global procurement strategy.    Through its voluntary supplier diversity program, MGM Resorts actively identifies and connects certified diverse-owned suppliers to opportunities within its supply chain. The company is on track to spend at least 15% of its biddable procurement with diverse-owned businesses by 2025, demonstrating that supplier diversity is not only a social responsibility but also a strategic business imperative.    Supplier diversity isn’t just the right thing to do – it’s good for business. A diverse supply chain allows access to a broader range of perspectives and experience, helping to drive innovation, entrepreneurship and resilience, while strengthening communities. At MGM Resorts, engaging diverse suppliers ensures best-in-class experiences for guests and clients. Supplier diversity ensures a more resilient supply chain while supporting economic development in the communities in which it operates.   The impact of MGM Resorts' supplier diversity initiatives is significant. In 2023, these efforts supported over 3,500 jobs across more than 30 states, contributed over $214 million in income for diverse-owned businesses and generated more than $62 million in tax revenue. The story extends beyond the numbers – it reflects the tangible benefits brought to small and diverse-owned businesses, fostering economic empowerment in their communities.    MGM Resorts also supports the development and business skills of diverse-owned businesses through investment, mentorship and education. Through the MGM Resorts Supplier Diversity Mentorship Program, the company identifies, mentors and develops diverse-owned businesses to fill its future pipeline, while providing businesses with tools and resources to empower and uplift. Since 2017, the program has successfully graduated 105 diverse-owned businesses and is on track to achieve its goal of 150 graduates by 2025.     MGM Resorts’ commitment to supplier diversity not only enhances its business operations but also plays a crucial role in uplifting communities and fostering economic development. This approach reinforces the idea that diversity is a powerful driver of innovation and resilience, benefiting both the company and the wider community.