Taking place as usual in the Iowa State Fairgrounds in Des Moines, Iowa, the show will open its doors on 4 June and run through to 6 June.

“If you’re shopping for new products and technologies; want the latest information on production management, legislative issues and markets; or are looking to exchange ideas with pork producers and other professionals, World Pork Expo is the event for you,” said Alicia Newman, World Pork Expo’s general manager.

Last year, nearly 20,000 pork producers, their employees and other professionals from 39 countries attended the Expo, and the organisers, the National Pork Producers Council, expect similar attendance this year.

The trade show will feature more than 400 exhibitors from around the world displaying the newest products, services and technologies available to pork production businesses today.

Free educational seminars on Wednesday and Thursday present updates on current management issues and research.

Experts will be discussing topics from animal health and well-being to production management to legislative updates to feeding strategies and more – all designed to provide practical information to take back home.

Business seminars that are also taking place on Wednesday and Thursday will address a range of marketing and business strategies and present an opportunity for questions and dialogue.

Live pigs will be on display in the swine barn from 3 to 7 June.

The ever-growing World Pork Expo Junior National, hosted by the National Junior Swine Association (NJSA) and Team Purebred, are widely regarded as being among the leading youth shows in the United States.

In 2013, a record 1,600 pigs were exhibited by 678 juniors from 26 states.

Also at Expo, swine breeding stock from throughout the US will compete in the purebred, open shows.

Last year, more than 200 exhibitors competed for top honours with nearly 600 pigs. Breeding stock sales are held Saturday 7 June from 8:00am until completion (at approximately noon).

MusicFest, scheduled for Thursday afternoon, has evolved into the social highlight of Expo.

It is a time when attendees can relax, listen to music, connect with colleagues, and enjoy some delicious pork and refreshments.

This year’s line-up of performers features country music newcomer Jake McVey, followed by GRAMMY nominee Restless Heart.

Once a designer and builder of custom guitars, McVey performs an average of 300 shows each year and was named a Top 10 Act to Catch by Billboard magazine in 2013. Known for songs like “I Want to Live Like That,” this skilled guitarist who just released his second album performs a high-energy stage show. When on tour, McVey often gives back to communities he visits by performing at nursing homes, hospitals, retirement communities, and centres for children and adults with special needs.

Restless Heart is still made up of the five original members. This Academy of Country Music Vocal Group of the Year has shared music with audiences for more than 30 years. The group is well-known for more than 25 singles that made the charts — including “I’ll Still Be Loving You,” one of six, consecutive No. 1 hits – and four gold-certified albums. Restless Heart has toured the world to perform for active-duty members of the US Armed Services and hosts an annual Music with a Mission event to benefit the homeless.

During the festivities from 4:30pm to 8:00pm along Grand Avenue on the Iowa State Fairgrounds, attendees can enjoy free roasted pork and refreshments, all of which is included in the Expo admission price.

“After a day of participating in seminars and viewing the trade show, MusicFest is a welcome change of pace,” said Alicia Newman.

“It’s a time for producers and exhibitors alike to interact in a fun, relaxing atmosphere. And whether people prefer the familiarity of hits from years past or the very newest country music, they’ll enjoy both of these well-recognized performers.”

It wouldn’t be World Pork Expo without the Big Grill, and during each of event’s three days attendees can stop by for a free lunch of succulent pork.

Manned by the Tama County Pork Producers Association from Iowa, the Big Grill serves up some 10,000 pork lunches each year.

“World Pork Expo offers something for everyone. It’s a great place to connect with fellow pork producers and compare notes,” said Randy Spronk, NPPC president and a pork producer from Edgerton, Minnesota.

“It’s also the one place where you can see all the latest developments in pork production and find business solutions that you can take back home. If you’re involved in pork production, you need to be at World Pork Expo.”

Before the expo, the National Pork Producers Council is staging two tours in conjunction for visitors who want a further glimpse into US agriculture.

A two-day tour on 2 to 3 June will feature a broad agricultural overview, from crop and pork production, to farm equipment and shipping. A one-day tour will highlight agribusiness in central Iowa.

May 2014