Columbus, OH—The Midwest regional office of the Natural Products Association (NPA) held its annual Summer Splash event, boasting a strong showing and growth from the previous year.

Marcy Kraft, executive director of the group, stated, “NPA Midwest/MAHO had the best show since its reintroduction to the show scene in 2011, having a 69% increase in the number of stores in attendance over the four years, with a ~67% increase in the number of retailer buyers and associates perusing the show floor.” She says that nearly all exhibitors plan to return for the 2015 show, slated for July 24-26 at the Hilton Columbus in Ohio. “Our exhibitors, speakers and sponsors are an integral part of our region and event, and we are very appreciative for their commitment to the NPA Midwest/MAHO Region,” Kraft said.

Kicking off the 2014 event was a workshop courtesy of EuroPharma featuring Jacob Teitelbaum, M.D., Terry Lemerond and Cheryl Myers. Other education opportunities included a session on hot diet crazes like paleo and plant-based with Garden of Life’s National Educator, Bruce Topping; an Herb Panel featuring several well-respected herbalists such as Tom Dadant (Planetary), Ed Smith (Herb Pharm) and David Winston (Herbalist & Alchemist); a session on “Bankcard Secrets Revealed” by Mac Hardin, who covered the new chip card readers that will be required of all retailers by October 2015; Todd Scarborough, sponsored by Bluebonnet, shared his view of “Nutrition Through the Eyes of a World Class Athlete”; Parris Kidd, Ph.D., courtesy of Doctor’s Best, provided tips on health and brain power; and Marita Schauch, N.D., courtesy of Natural Factors, spoke about “Adrenal Stress Connection.” Meanwhile, Kaliana Schmidt spoke about Natural Emotional Care, and calmed the senses of a standing room only crowd of retailers. Show organizers say attendees in the session commented, “WOW!,” “So Amazing” and “Bring her back.”

On the show floor, retailers got info on new products, sales tips and special deals from exhibitors. Attendee William Strandeitz, Ph.D., from Marilyn’s Natural Foods, Coshocton, OH, stated, “Last year, I said NPA Midwest was as well organized and presented as any medical seminar or expo I have attended. This year, it was even better.”

Published in WholeFoods Magazine, September 2014