LAS VEGAS — The 58th annual NBVA trade show and convention, held at Caesars Palace Hotel here April 17-19, posted disappointing attendance figures. The show, sponsored and produced by the National Bulk Vendors Association (Chicago), attracted some 355 visitors, down significantly from the previous year's 516. Association officials attributed the low turnout to the nation's ailing economy, which has resulted in falling revenues on both the operator and supplier sides of the industry.

Despite the disappointing show numbers, the NBVA successfully completed a full agenda of association business, including the election of new officers. Randy Chilton of Coinstar (Louisville, CO) was installed as president, succeeding Peter Becker of What's Up LLC. Rounding out the new officer roster is Steve Siegel, Great American Vending Machine Co. (Hauppauge, NY), who becomes vice-president; Mark Pogue, MEPCO (Fresno, CA), as secretary; and Bernie Schwarzli, Beaver Machine Corp., as treasurer.

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