SISCO '04 A Success!

The Second International Sales Conference (SISCO) for the Astec Aggregate and Mining Group (AA&MG) got underway in Yankton just a few short days after the conclusion of DAD ’04.

Astec aggregate and mining equipment dealers and sales representatives from around the globe met in Yankton for the sales conference, which was hosted this year by Kolberg-Pioneer, starting Wednesday, September 29.

On Wednesday morning, after a short introduction by AA&MG Vice President of International Sales Eduardo Barrera, early arrival attendees heard initial presentations from the international sales force and company internal sales coordinators, including JCI, KPI, BTI, Telsmith, Astec Mobile Screens and Osborn throughout the day, and then enjoyed a cocktail reception that evening at the Kelly Inn pool area.

But the Conference began in earnest at the Best Western Kelly Inn on Thursday morning, September 30, once all dealer agents and OEMs were present. Thursday’s program included an introduction of all AA&MG officers, followed by an introduction of dealers, agents, OEM representatives and customers. The company Presidents, ISs, ICs and other AA&MG personnel were introduced, followed by a welcome from Dr. J. Don Brock, Astec Industries’ Chairman of the Board, CEO & President.

AA&MG Vice President Bob Stafford gave a presentation on “Status and Vision of the International Sales Division,” and Eduardo Barrera presented “International Sales, A Love Affair.”

After a short break, the attendees heard individual and/or group presentations by dealers. A plant tour and inspection of the Equipment Expo and dinner at Yankton’s Quarry Restaurant rounded out the day’s events.

Friday and Saturday were filled with workshops for the SISCO attendees. Topics included “What’s New” and “How to Sell” for each company in the AA&MG, as well as “ExIM Bank Financing,” “Freight Forwarding and Incoterms,” “Application Works, Aggflow and ESP” and “Order Entry and L.C. Write Ups."

Dinner on Friday and Saturday were at a dealer's DAD favorite - Murdo's - and the Hillcrest Country Club, respectively. At the Gala Dinner at Hillcrest Country Club, attendees were presented with International Awards and remembrance plaques. Bob Stafford officially closed the event at the end of the evening.