MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA, U.S.  – The Grain Elevator and Processing Society (GEAPS) hosted Exchange 2016, its 87th International Technical Conference and Exposition, Feb. 27-March 1 in Austin, Texas, U.S. A total of 2,852 attendees from 28 countries attended the show, the third highest total in the history of the conference.  It also set a new record for exhibitors with 412 in 250,000 square feet of space.

Exchange 2016 key stats:

• 2,852 attendees from 28 countries

• A record 412 exhibitors in 250,000 square feet of exhibit space. The previous record was 400 at Exchange 2014 in Omaha

• 41.5 hours of educational programming presented by 55 speakers

GEAPS recognizes outstanding volunteers at the Exchange:

• GEAPS honored two outstanding volunteers with the organization’s highest honor, International Member of Distinction, at the President’s Banquet, March 1.

•The GEAPS Member Celebration recognized 25, 40 and 50 year members; honored five individuals with Chapter Member of Distinction Awards; and celebrated grain industry workers who completed credentials through the GEAPS/Kansas State University Distance Education Program.

•Two chapters were also recognized for membership recruitment and retention, and overall excellence.

GEAPS recognized 439 facilities at 34 companies for completing the 2015 Safety Awards Program during the Member Celebration.  Each of the facilities had to complete an entire year without any lost time injuries or illnesses. The top five companies in cumulative hours worked and consecutive years without an incident were also praised.