The industry’s first trade show of the year just concluded, and by all accounts it was a smash hit.

ASI Show Orlando, held the first week of January, welcomed 4,500 suppliers and distributors – a 50% year-over-year increase – including 862 Education Day class attendees and over 700 exhibits on the show floor.

Attendees also had a chance to hear from keynote speakers Shawn Rhodes, a U.S. Marine-turned-sales consultant, and pro baseball player Alex Rodriguez, now a successful entrepreneur. ASI also officially launched ESP+, its new business management platform for the industry.

In this episode, Executive Editors Theresa Hegel and Sara Lavenduski discuss the high-energy event, trends to keep an eye on and growing enthusiasm for this year. Next up is ASI Show Fort Worth, from Jan. 23 to 25.