The 2021 UMA Motorcoach EXPO felt like a long-awaited reunion for UMA Members who have faced business and, in some cases, health challenges over the past year. The silver lining of this year’s smaller gathering is that attendees had more time to connect with each other in person after weekly Zoom calls during the pandemic.
Below is just a sampling of the hundreds of photos taken at the EXPO. Check out the full gallery here.
Day 1
The first day of UMA Motorcoach EXPO began with representatives of state and regional associations gathering at the Orange County Convention Center for the annual UMA State Association Summit. In the evening, UMA President and CEO Larry Killingsworth welcomed attendees at a poolside UMA Welcome Reception on the patio of the Rosen Plaza Hotel. The gathering was capped by the first in-person version of the weekly Buses & Beer call, with host Jeff Goldwasser handing out prizes to operators supplied by vendors. Check out more first-day photos.
Day 2
The second day focused on educational sessions to give Members ideas for growing their business. As UMA celebrated its 50th anniversary at EXPO, founder Wayne Smith presented highlights of the organization’s history. Lunchtime speaker hotelier Harris Rosen shared the inspiring story of how the motorcoach industry saved his business. Sales coach Jim Pancero wrapped up the education sessions in his presentation, Pulling It All Together. The day ended with UMA Members attending the Exhibit Hall Sneak Preview, followed by the After Party on the balcony of Hyatt Place, where they could take in the Orlando skyline.
EXPO attendees gather on the Hyatt Place balcony for dinner on the second day.
Day 3
The third day began with keynote speaker and bestselling author Stephen Shapiro’s presentation on Solving Difficult Problems During Difficult Times. That was followed by the official opening of the Exhibit Hall, featuring the latest vehicles, products and services. The day concluded with an outdoor barbecue at the Rosen Plaza Hotel.
Day 4 & 5
The fourth day began at Breakfast with the Buses outside the convention center, giving attendees an opportunity to inspect the latest motorcoaches. Afterward, they had one last morning to connect with vendors in the Exhibit Hall. UMA ended the conference by announcing next year’s EXPO will be in Long Beach, California. On day five, UMA Members hit the greens at the UMA Annual Golf Outing.
