Farm Show Success Demonstrates Strong Farm Economy in Indiana

The Indiana Farm Equipment and Technology Expo, sponsored by Reynolds Farm Equipment and AgriFinancial, that ended on December 15 at Grand Park in Westfield, attracted close to 5,000 attendees and 150 exhibitors. This was the second, consecutive year that the show was sold out of exhibit space. “This demonstrates just how strong and vibrant the Indiana ag economy is,” said ISDA Director Bruce Kettler in his opening remarks at the Expo. This sentiment was echoed by many of the exhibitors who reporting doing a brisk business at the show.

Another sign that there is a good deal of optimism about the Indiana ag economy was the success of the first ever Indiana Ag Career Fair, sponsored by the State Department of Agriculture. Held on the last day of the Expo, the event was designed to help address the critical labor shortage in agriculture. Twenty Indiana companies participated in the event which drew close to 50 people. Some were just exploring agribusiness as a career option, while others came with resumes in hand. Several of the companies who participated reported getting promising candidates and a few made employment offers on the spot.

This was the second year the Expo was held at the Westfield complex. The large, well-lighted event center showcases the farm equipment well and allows for a casual, interactive environment. Without crushing crowds, farmers and exhibitors have time to interact. Several exhibitors said this is as important as selling items off the floor. This is especially true for new technology and innovative products that need a good deal of explanation.

The Expo is scheduled to return December 12-14, 2023. Many exhibitors have already signed contracts to participate.