After a 2009 that was considered a lean year, especially for travel budgets of companies keeping watch of every dollar, attendees noticed a lot more activity and excitement this year along the aisles of the Credit Congress Expo hall.

At NACM's booth, representatives from national and affiliate offices were available to answer questions about NACM's many offerings. Attendees were filled in on upcoming events; got questions answered about CBA/CBF/CCE certification; learned more about NACM's Asset Protection Group, Government Business Group, Mechanic's Lien and Bond Services and local NACM Affiliate services and products. They also got a chance to casually chat with Business Credit magazine staff and writers about what's happening on the ground and what's coming next for the industry. CFDD, CRF and FCIB also took the opportunity to network with hundreds of passing attendees from the NACM booth.

Meanwhile, dozens of vendors offering a wide range in products and services from credit insurance to rating services to software solutions and collection tools looked to hit the jackpot with credit professionals in Las Vegas. Maddie Gockel, U.S. sales director for exhibitor Graydon International, said the company was a little worried heading into Credit Congress that abounding distractions in the host city would potentially take away from the ability of vendors and credit professionals to connect. Rather, Graydon representatives instead found the Expo experience to be a huge success, in part because of what appeared to be increased optimism at this year's event.

"The people that attended had an active interest and good insight in the current risk management of their companies," said Gockel. "The positive atmosphere in combination with that sincere interest made it a highly energized conference. Graydon International will continuously be present at the NACM's Credit Congress."

Amber Tallmadge, CCE, corporate credit manager with Central States Manufacturing, Inc., was among many who were particularly encouraged by significant networking opportunities present on the Expo floor. "You can learn so much more from your vendors speaking with them in person than on the phone," said Tallmadge, who returned to Credit Congress as an attendee for the first time in three years. "People really need to take advantage of that opportunity."

Attendees were also treated to the Grand Opening Reception on the first night of the conference and Monday evening's always popular Beer & Browse, both of which included light fare and drinks. Monday's Beer & Browse, for the second year, included the NACM Scholarship Foundation's Silent Auction that buzzed all evening with competitors for electronics, fashion, jewelry items and more.

Need the contact information for that vendor you spoke to? Click here for the list of vendors and a description of their services.

Don't remember who you spoke to, but remember their whereabouts on the Expo floor? We have the floor plan for you here!

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