Interview with Ryan: CONEXPO CON/AGG, ZIP CLIP® and the US Market

With over a decade of experience in the industry and numerous CONEXPO CON/AGG shows under his belt, our Sales Director, Ryan Wright, brings a seasoned perspective to one of the sector’s biggest events. We caught up with Ryan ahead of the show to talk about how CONEXPO CON/AGG has evolved, what they’re seeing in the US market, and why events like this remain so important for Smiley Monroe. 

Thinking back to your first CONEXPO CON/AGG, what stood out to you then? 

I first attended CONEXPO CON/AGG back in 2017. What stood out to me back then walking the halls was of course the sheer size and scale of the show. Despite this year being my 4th time attending I’m fairly certain there’s parts of the Convention Center I still haven’t explored! What I love about being at CONEXPO is seeing familiar faces – you return year after year to catch up with those connections you’ve made. A lot can happen in three years so it’s invaluable to meet face to face with our customers and industry partners to see what’s new.  

How has the show changed over the years, from your perspective? 

Covid and lockdowns had a huge impact on trade shows, but I think since 2022 really there’s been an energized bounce-back and renewed appreciation for in-person networking. Businesses see the value of face-to-face meetings even more now after not being able to get together properly for such an extended period.  

You have extensive experience in the US market—how does it differ from other markets you’ve worked in, particularly when it comes to job site needs and expectations? 

The US market is fast-moving and scale-driven. Jobsites are often larger, timelines are tighter, and there’s a strong focus on productivity and durability. Equipment dealers and end-users are very practical—if a product doesn’t clearly save time, reduce effort, or hold up in real conditions, they move on. That mindset really shapes the conversations we have at CONEXPO. 

ZIP CLIP® will be a focal point on the Smiley Monroe booth. When you’re talking with attendees about ZIP CLIP®, what resonates? 

It usually clicks right away as a time-saver. People immediately see how ZIP CLIP® simplifies refitting belts and reducing the number of steps needed on the jobsite – such as planning for vulcanizing crews to call in – which matters when teams are working under tight schedules. It particularly resonates with equipment dealers as they are able to rapidly respond when they have a ZIP CLIP® sitting ready for their customers if they’re facing a breakdown. 

Why is CONEXPO CON/AGG such an important event for Smiley Monroe? 

CONEXPO CON/AGG brings the industry together, and for us, that makes it an essential opportunity to listen, learn, and connect. The show plays a key role in strengthening relationships in the US market. It enables us to connect with existing customers, meet new partners, and reinforce Smiley Monroe’s long-term commitment to the industry. 

It’s also an opportunity for us to showcase our new products to the market and this year we’re excited to be expanding our US product catalog to include cut rubber and plastic parts – CNC precision cut at our Kentucky facility. 

What to expect at the show? 

Expect to be craning your neck a lot looking up at some of the biggest machinery the industry has to offer! The demo area is also an absolute must to check out some of the machines in action.  

Any advice for a first-time attendee? 

Pack comfortable footwear because you’ll be walking A LOT! And of course be sure to call by the Smiley Monroe booth C32562 for a warm welcome and to learn more about our flagship hero products ZIP CLIP®, ToughFlex® and INTEGRACLEAT™.