In The News

Mar 21, 2023

Author: Kris Martinez

Over 10,400 attendees – farmers as well as exhibitors, industry stakeholders and members of the media – gathered for the 2023 Commodity Classic March 9-11 in Orlando.   The 2023 event broke the previous Commodity Classic record of 9,770 attendees, which was held in New Orleans in 2016.   “The excitement in Orlando was energizing,” said George Goblish, a Minnesota farmer, ASA member, and co-chair of the 2023 Commodity Classic. “We knew going into the event that registration was up 30% over last year, but to have a record-breaking show just blew us away.”   Kenny Hartman, an Illinois farmer, NCGA member, and fellow 2023 co-chair, said, “There’s nothing like connecting in person, and it just felt like everyone was so excited to come together again to see the best agriculture has to offer. I can’t wait to see everyone again at the 2024 Commodity Classic in Houston.”   This year’s event featured more than 30 educational sessions, a sold-out trade show with over 400 exhibitors, a...

Jan 31, 2023

Author: Kris Martinez

Networking with Top Farmers Key Benefit of Attending 2023 Commodity Classic   Farmers across the country are getting excited for the 2023 Commodity Classic, which has just announced registration is up 28% over last year’s event in New Orleans.   The 2023 Commodity Classic will be held March 9-11 in Orlando. Attendees can register for all three days of the event; single-day passes are also available.   Attendee surveys indicate that networking with other farmers is one of the top reasons producers enjoy Commodity Classic. Hallway conversations and in-person connections are an important part of the educational experience at Commodity Classic as farmers share their knowledge, passion, and insight with colleagues from across the nation.   “We saw near-record attendance the last time the event was held in Orlando in 2019, and our registrations this year are already up 28% over last year,” said George Goblish, a Minnesota farmer, ASA member, and co-chair of the 2023 Commodity...

Jan 25, 2023

Author: Kris Martinez

The nation’s leading agriculture experts and well-known personalities will be featured on the Main Stage during the 2023 Commodity Classic held March 9-11 in Orlando.   The Main Stage, presented by Successful Farming® and Commodity Classic, is located right on the trade show floor. Presentations are scheduled during trade show hours, and highlights of the Main Stage line-up for 2023 include:   Strategies for Success: Where’s the Market Going? with Farm Credit and Kluis Commodity Advisors Cashing In On Carbon with Garth Boyd of Context Network, sponsored by Truterra How to Make the Most Success with XtremeAg, sponsored by FMC Corporation Bring Soil Health to Life, sponsored by Ducks Unlimited Generation Next: A Retiring Couple’s Journey to Find a Successor to the Family Farm, presented by Syngenta   “The Main Stage is where growers can find valuable information they need to improve their farming operation,” said 2023 co-chair Kenny Hartman, an Illinois farmer and NCGA...

Jan 17, 2023

Author: Kris Martinez

Limited Spaces Remain for Orlando Event   Exhibit space at the 2023 Commodity Classic in Orlando is rapidly reaching sell-out status with nearly 400 companies and over 2,600 booth spaces already committed. A limited number of prime visibility booths are expected to sell quickly.   The 2023 Commodity Classic will be held March 9-11 at the Orange County Convention Center West Concourse in Orlando, Florida.   Exhibitors at Commodity Classic will have direct interaction with thousands of top producers, first-time attendees, and key ag media representatives. Commodity Classic attracts top farmers from across the nation who are the early adopters, thought leaders, and innovators in agriculture. Attendee data from the most recent Commodity Classic in New Orleans indicated that the average farmer at Commodity Classic farmed 3,483 acres and represented $3.5 million in total gross farm income.   Commodity Classic provides farmers with a unique combination of outstanding education,...

Jan 11, 2023

Author: Kris Martinez

Only a few days remain to take advantage of early registration discounts for the 2023 Commodity Classic to be held March 9-11 in Orlando.   Friday, January 20, 2023, is the last day the early registration discount will be in effect.    “Going to Commodity Classic is an investment in any grower’s operation,” said George Goblish, a Minnesota farmer, ASA member, and co-chair of the 2023 Commodity Classic. “The registration fees are a very small cost for everything you get: top-notch educational sessions, the latest farming technology, and the opportunity to network with thousands of farmers from all over the country. And signing up by January 20 allows growers to take advantage of the best prices.”   Registration fees vary depending on the number of days attended. Full registration covers all three days of the event, and one-day registrations are also available. Members of the National Corn Growers Association, American Soybean Association, National Sorghum Producers, National...

Nov 9, 2022

Author: Kris Martinez

Special Pricing Also Available on Tickets to Orlando Theme Parks   Attendees at the 2023 Commodity Classic in Orlando can make their experience even more memorable by signing up for one or more of the fascinating, family-friendly tours available during the event. These optional tours provide the opportunity to discover more about the history, attractions, and culture of the Orlando area — and this year’s tour schedule is packed with local delights:   Learn how NASA supports agriculture from space to seeds on the NASA Agricultural Tour A Day at the Beach offers sandy beaches, fresh seafood, and the unique shops of New Smyrna Beach Enjoy an oyster tasting and the craft of oyster farming on the Indian River Oyster Company Paddle Tour  Your journey awaits at the Kennedy Space Center Tour, Florida’s gateway to space Look for manatees, cypress forests, and alligators on the Blue Spring State Park St. Johns River Cruise A tour to Beck Citrus Farm and Southern Hill Farm...

Oct 25, 2022

Author: Kris Martinez

Online registration and housing for the 2023 Commodity Classic will open on November 15, 2022. America’s largest farmer-led agricultural and educational experience will be held Thursday, March 9 through Saturday, March 11 in Orlando.   To register, reserve hotel rooms, sign up for email updates, and register for optional tours in and around Orlando, visit CommodityClassic.com. A list of exhibiting companies, a map of the trade show floor, and the registration brochure can also be found online.   Early discounts on registration end January 20, 2023.   Commodity Classic features a robust schedule of over 30 educational sessions, a trade show with more than 330 exhibitors featuring the latest technology, equipment and innovation, top-notch entertainment, inspiring speakers, unique tours, and the opportunity to network with thousands of farmers from across the nation.   “Commodity Classic brings together a huge trade show with the best farmers, education, technology, and...

Oct 4, 2022

Author: Kris Martinez

October 14, 2022 Deadline for What’s New, Mini What’s New Proposals   Sign up now to exhibit at America’s largest farmer-led agricultural and educational experience while space is available. There is still time for exhibitors to submit a proposal by October 14 to sponsor “What’s New” and “Mini What’s New” educational sessions.    Commodity Classic is excited to bring the agriculture industry together again in-person March 9-11, 2023, in Orlando for the annual showcase of ag technology, crop production science, marketing intelligence, and farm innovation.   “Commodity Classic is recognized as the premier trade show to connect with top producers, farmer leaders, and key ag media,” said George Goblish, a Minnesota farmer, ASA member, and co-chair of the 2023 Commodity Classic. “We’re happy that the 2023 location at the Orange County Convention Center West Concourse offers more space for exhibitors, especially ag companies who might be new to the market,”    Additionally,...

Sep 20, 2022

Author: Kris Martinez

Exhibitor Applications Being Accepted for Nearly Sold-Out Trade Show   Plans for the 2023 Commodity Classic are well underway as America’s largest farmer-led agricultural and educational experience returns to Orlando March 9-11, 2023. The theme for the 2023 show is “Preparing for the Next Generation.”   The preliminary schedule for the 2023 Commodity Classic can be found online at commodityclassic.com/2023-schedule-at-a-glance. The schedule highlights tentative dates and times for the dozens of educational sessions, presentations, special events, and trade show. Additional sessions continue to be added to the schedule as available.    “We’re excited for Commodity Classic to return to Orlando, which has historically been a very popular location for us,” said George Goblish, a Minnesota farmer, ASA member, and co-chair of the 2023 Commodity Classic. “We encourage everyone to check out the schedule to start planning their trip to Orlando.”   Fellow 2023 co-chair Kenny Hartman,...

Jun 1, 2022

Author: Kris Martinez

Commodity Classic is delighted to announce Maureen Feck has accepted the role of Show Director and will begin her new job on July 1, 2022.   Feck comes to Commodity Classic from the True Value Company, where she served as Senior Director of Meetings and Events. In her previous role, Feck worked in the hardware and tools industry with accomplishments including growing attendance in biannual, city-wide conventions by 18% over two years and developing events that are strategically focused on creating meaningful experiences for attendees.   Feck, who brings more than 15 years of hands-on event, communications and management experience, will play an integral role in the continued growth and innovation of agriculture’s premier trade show and educational experience. She holds a bachelor’s degree in communications from Purdue University in West Lafayette, Indiana.   Meet Maureen and say hello when you join us at Commodity Classic in Orlando from March 9 to 11, 2023. For information,...

May 23, 2022

Author: Kris Martinez

The 2023 Commodity Classic trade show floor opens to new exhibitors at 10:00 a.m. Central on Thursday, May 26. Commodity Classic’s “Preparing for the Next Generation” will be held March 9-11, 2023, in Orlando, Florida.     “It was so exciting to be back in person for Commodity Classic this year in New Orleans,” said George Goblish, a Minnesota farmer, ASA member, and co-chair of the 2023 Commodity Classic. “Being able to connect in-person with so many progressive farmers from around the country – there’s just nothing like it.”   Fellow 2023 co-chair Kenny Hartman, an Illinois farmer and NCGA member, echoed George’s comments. “We had nearly 8,000 attendees in New Orleans, so we can’t wait to see how many farmers come to 2023 in Orlando. The educational sessions are so valuable, and walking the floor to see all the latest farming technologies can really put any producer a step ahead in their own operation.”   At 10:00 a.m. Central on Thursday, May 26, the exhibitor application...

Mar 17, 2022

Author: Kris Martinez

Nearly 8,000 Attendees in New Orleans for Farming’s Must-Attend Event   Nearly 8,000 attendees – farmers as well as exhibitors, industry stakeholders and members of the media – gathered for the 2022 Commodity Classic, as the popular annual event returned to an in-person format March 10-12 in New Orleans.    “We were so excited to be live and in-person in New Orleans after a digital event last year,” said Gerry Hayden, 2022 Commodity Classic co-chair and soybean and corn farmer from Kentucky. “The energy of seeing everyone together after being separated for two years by the pandemic was amazing. What a great start to 2022.”   Gary Porter, a Missouri corn and soybean farmer and co-chair of the 2022 Commodity Classic, said, “There’s nothing like connecting in person and seeing the best agriculture has to offer. I can’t wait to see everyone again at the 2023 Commodity Classic in Orlando.”    The 2022 Commodity Classic featured more than 50 educational sessions, a sold-out trade...

Mar 3, 2022

Author: Kris Martinez

2022 Commodity Classic is pleased to announce that attendees at the March 10-12 event in New Orleans will not be required to wear masks indoors at the convention center or in convention hotels, according to new guidelines announced by the City of New Orleans yesterday afternoon.    The 2022 Commodity Classic is being held March 10-12 at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center in New Orleans. Per City of New Orleans mandates in effect during Commodity Classic, attendees are still required to show proof of full vaccination for COVID-19 or a recent negative COVID test in order to attend the trade show and events at the convention center, to attend events in hotel ballrooms and meeting spaces, and to enter restaurants and bars in New Orleans.    “We are excited to learn that it will be even easier for producers, exhibitors and agribusinesses to join us for our live, in-person event next week,” said Gary Porter, a Missouri farmer and co-chair of the 2022 Commodity Classic. “I...

Mar 3, 2022

Author: Kris Martinez

U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack will be the keynote speaker during the General Session at the 2022 Commodity Classic held March 10-12 in New Orleans. The General Session is scheduled for Friday, March 11, at 9 a.m. at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center.   Secretary Vilsack is expected to share his vision for the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the role of U.S. agriculture in America’s economic vitality, including his thoughts on more, new and better market opportunities; expanded capacity and competition; exports performance; and rural development and climate programs.   The General Session will also include a panel discussion with leaders of the five associations that present Commodity Classic: American Soybean Association, National Corn Growers Association, National Association of Wheat Growers, National Sorghum Producers, and the Association of Equipment Manufacturers. And, attendees will hear from key agricultural industry leaders on current priorities and...

Feb 23, 2022

Author: Kris Martinez

If you can’t commit to all three days at the 2022 Commodity Classic in New Orleans, one-day registrations are available. Commodity Classic provides a robust experience of education, new equipment and technology, entertainment and the opportunity to network with thousands of top farmers from across the nation.    The 2022 Commodity Classic will be held March 10-12 at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center in New Orleans. One-day registration provides admission to all applicable events and sessions scheduled for that day, including educational sessions, the trade show, the Main Stage on the trade show floor and other daily activities. Online registration is available in advance through March 8 at CommodityClassic.com; attendees can also register on-site beginning March 9 and throughout the event.     Thursday registration includes a wide range of educational sessions and technical presentations, the Early Riser session on grain marketing, the grand opening of the huge trade...

Feb 15, 2022

Author: Kris Martinez

Attendees at the 2022 Commodity Classic in New Orleans can make their experience even more memorable by signing up for one or more of the fascinating, family-friendly tours available during the event. These optional tours provide the opportunity to discover even more about the history, attractions, and culture of the New Orleans area—and this year’s tour schedule is packed with local delights:   •    Enjoy A Day on the Bayou, home to hundreds of species of swamp-based plants and animals •    The “Big Easy” City Tour will visit the French Quarter, St. Louis Cemetery, and other city attractions •    A visit to St. Joseph Sugar Cane Farm will take you back in time to a historic sugar cane plantation •    Enjoy a cooking class featuring Creole cuisine—complete with lunch •    Tap into the award-winning NOLA Brewing Company with tastings and a lesson on microbrewing •    The LSU Agricultural Center Rice and Crawfish Tour will take you inside the area’s local agriculture •  ...

Feb 11, 2022

Author: Kris Martinez

Live Event in New Orleans Set to Attract Thousands   Hallway conversations and in-person connections are an integral part of the educational experience at Commodity Classic, as farmers share their knowledge, passion and insight with colleagues from across the nation.   The 2022 Commodity Classic will be held March 10-12 in New Orleans with the theme “The Future Is In Your Hands.” Attendees can register for all three days or for single-day attendance.   Networking with other farmers is one of the top reasons farmers enjoy Commodity Classic, according to attendee surveys. “Commodity Classic attracts thousands of America’s best farmers from across the nation. We share a passion for agriculture and a thirst for knowledge, and we’re all interested in how we can make our farms more profitable,” said Gary Porter, a Missouri farmer and co-chair of the 2022 Commodity Classic. “The educational sessions always offer little improvements we can make that can help save money down the line,...

Feb 10, 2022

Author: Kris Martinez

From the first Commodity Classic in 1996 through the upcoming 2022 event March 10-12 in New Orleans, one person, in particular, has been a constant guiding force for the annual agricultural trade show and educational event.   Peggy Findley, the show director for the past 26 years, has announced that she will be retiring later this year, once her replacement is hired and the transition of duties for managing the 2023 event in Orlando is complete. Commodity Classic is actively recruiting candidates for the position at commodityclassic.com/join-the-classic-team.   Findley was hired to help the American Soybean Association and the National Corn Growers Association combine forces to hold their annual meetings jointly, which they began doing in 1996 under the umbrella of “Commodity Classic” in Phoenix. “They were looking for someone with experience managing a joint convention,” she recalls, “someone who could help people understand other people’s point of view and work...

Jan 21, 2022

Author: Kris Martinez

Some of the nation’s leading agriculture experts and well-known personalities will be featured on the Main Stage during the 2022 Commodity Classic held March 10-12 in New Orleans.    The Main Stage, presented by Successful Farming® and Commodity Classic, is located right on the trade show floor. Presentations are scheduled during trade show hours. Highlights of the Main Stage line-up for 2022 include:   Al Kluis, marketing columnist for Successful Farming®: Strategies for Success in 2022 Cashing in on Carbon, presented by Agoro The Future of Agriculture is Data, presented by GrainChain Generation Next, presented by Pivot Bio Xtreme Ag: Oh, the Mistakes We’ve Made, So You Don’t, presented by FMC Kevin Kimberley: The Planter Doctor Carbon Markets Tell-All Panel, presented by Nutrien Ag Solutions A cooking demonstration presented by USA Poultry & Egg Export Council Commodity Classic is unlike any other agricultural event and features a robust schedule of educational...

Jan 18, 2022

Author: Kris Martinez

Sara Evans to Perform Saturday, March 12 in New Orleans   Multi-platinum country musician Sara Evans will close out the 2022 Commodity Classic with a bang during Saturday night’s Evening of Entertainment. Commodity Classic will be held Thursday, March 10 through Saturday, March 12 in New Orleans.   As the fifth most-played female artist on country radio in the last two decades, some of Evans’ top singles include “Born to Fly,” “No Place That Far,” “Suds In The Bucket,” and “A Little Bit Stronger,” which spent two weeks at number one and was certified platinum. Sara’s “stunning country voice” (Rolling Stone) has earned her the prestigious Academy of Country Music Top Female vocalist accolade as well as several American Music Awards, Billboard Music Awards, and nominations from the Country Music Association and the Grammy Awards.   The Evening of Entertainment is sponsored by Bayer Crop Science and admission to the concert is included with full registration or with a one-day...

Nov 15, 2021

Author: Kris Martinez

Registration and housing for the 2022 Commodity Classic is now open. America’s largest farmer-led agricultural and educational experience will be held Thursday, March 10 through Saturday, March 12 in New Orleans, LA.   To register, reserve hotel rooms, sign up for email updates, and register for optional tours in and around New Orleans, visit CommodityClassic.com. A list of exhibiting companies, a map of the trade show floor, and the registration brochure can also be found online.   Early discounts on registration end Jan. 21, 2022.   Commodity Classic is excited to bring the agriculture industry together again in-person for the annual showcase of ag technology, crop production science, marketing intelligence, and farm innovation.   Commodity Classic features a robust schedule of over 50 educational sessions, a huge trade show with over 350 exhibitors featuring the latest technology, equipment and innovation, top-notch entertainment, inspiring speakers, unique tours, and...

May 6, 2021

Author: Kris Martinez

Commodity Classic was recently honored in four different categories in Trade Show Executive Magazine where the trade show took home three “Fastest 50” awards and one Gold award for trade show growth.    Due to delays by the Covid-19 pandemic, the awards were based on numbers from 2019. During that year, Commodity Classic was identified as the 86th largest U.S. trade show in any industry. Additionally, it ranked in the top 50 among the fastest-growing shows in three categories, which were based on total square feet, number of exhibitors, and number of attendees. Commodity Classic was the only agricultural trade show to be recognized in all three categories.   Here were the official rankings of Commodity Classic. To view the entire results, click here. - Gold 100 Ranking - #86 (based on net square feet) - Fastest 50 Ranking - #35 (by percentage of growth in net square feet) - Fastest 50 Ranking - #39 (by percentage of growth in number of exhibitors) - Fastest 50 Ranking - #38...