NATRE to 'rethink' expo format

MIAMI — Latin Expo Group, the organizer of the North American Tire & Retread Expo (NATRE), said it plans to “reevaluate the format” for the conference following the most recent event, held in New Orleans April 19-21.

“In our quest to create the North American Tire & Retread Expo as a stand-alone tire conference for tire dealers, retreaders and the tire industry, we have not seen the support from attendees, tire manufacturers and suppliers that we had hoped for,” said Gus Lima, CEO of Latin Expo Group.

“As a result we have decided not to proceed with the show in its current format,” he continued, adding that, “instead, we will step back and rethink how best to achieve our vision for a tire and retread event for North America and will inform the industry of our plans in the future.”

Mr. Lima and the Latin Expo Group launched the NATRE in New Orleans in 2014 as the continent's only national tire trade show and conference dedicated to tire dealers, retreaders and the tire industry. Tire Business joined the expo team in 2016 to produce the show's educational program and help grow the event.

After three years in New Orleans, the expo was set to move to Nashville in 2018, but those plans have been put on hold.

“We wish to thank all the companies and industry professionals who have supported the show these past three years and hope to see all of you in the future,” Mr. Lima said.