Milwaukee, Wis.— The 6th annual Allen-Bradley Automation Fair, held November 1997 in Nashville, Tenn., broke its 1996 attendance record by 30%. A total of 9,540 visitors representing 48 states and 23 countries attended the annual event, which began in 1992.

At the opening ceremony, Don Davis, president and ceo of Allen-Bradley's parent company, Rockwell International, said the Automation Fair, "has become one of the premier trade shows for automation solutions." Attendees came from as far as Norway, India and other parts of Asia, and South America to see the 106 exhibitors representing Allen-Bradley and Rockwell Software brands, as well as the company's Encompass Program members.

Aside from the exhibits, the fair's 49 technical sessions and 20 hands-on training labs drew 12,200 guests total. Several new presentations spurred wide interest as well. "Automation Odyssey" showcased Rockwell Automation's product capabilities with a theater-like experience, while on of the most widely appreciated exhibit was the live coffee factory line. Using a fully integrated automation solution to roast, bag, and dispense premium blends of coffee, the grounds were then brewed and served to the presentation's audience.

Automation Fair '98 will be held on Nov. 18 and 19 at the Cervantes Convention Center in St. Louis, Mo.

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