MATS 2008 Continues Its ‘Large’ Tradition

The show’s 1.2 million-square-foot floor featured 1,174 exhibitors from 12 countries. Attendees came from all 50 U.S. states and 48 countries.

"Even the high fuel prices and economic uncertainty could not inhibit MATS as we produced another show for the record books, continuing along the path of growth and refinement established by MATS long ago,” said Toby Young, president of show organizer Exhibit Management Associates. “MATS 2008 reflected the tremendous loyalty and support of the heavy-duty trucking industry to the delight of our attendees, exhibitors and sponsors. It is this loyalty that has been the catalyst for our continued success."

Young also noted the number of special events held during MATS, the 19th Annual Paul K. Young Memorial Truck Beauty Championship, the 4th Annual Mid-America’s Big-Rig Build-Off, the Expediter Experience, Mid-America’s Recruitment Center, MATS’ Internet and Technology Center, and Sugarland in concert presented by Kenworth. Celebrity appearances included Rhonda Vincent, Grammy winner Suzy Bogguss, and the Chrome Shop Mafia, to name a few.

Other on-site activities included an on-site "Custom Truck Build" by the members of the television series "Trick My Truck," educational seminars, OEM ride-and-drives, and cash and product giveaways. (Tire Review/Akron)

Ascot Supply Corporation, based in Newnan, Georgia, has selected Mark Paquette for the newly created position of vice president. In this position, Ascot Supply said Paquette will oversee the growth of the company's products, corporate profitability, manage marketing and advertising and assume many other responsibilities.

He will work under the direction of current President David Kessler and officially begin his new role on June 3. Paquette joined the tire and automotive industry in the early 1980s at his father's tire shop, and his contributions to Mohawk Rubber Sales were instrumental in the company's growth and eventual sale to Myers Tire Supply in 2021, according to Ascot Supply. Paquette eventually was given a promotion to the role of director of operations at Myers Tire Supply.