Something Old, Something New

Long-running industry event sees success, adds networking rooftop extravaganza to the mix

In the soft golden glow of the chandeliers and light champagne-colored walls of the Villa Barone Manor in the Bronx, NY, the Elevator Conference of New York (ECNY) Supplier Showcase once again provided industry suppliers with the chance to showcase their products to a NY-centric audience, along with those who took the time to travel to participate in the 24th edition of this industry-favorite event. 

The close to 900 attendees — which Greg DeCola Jr., treasurer and technical director of ECNY, said was more than last year — visited with the approximately 120 exhibitor booths that filled every inch of the exhibitor space provided by the Villa Barone from noon to 6 p.m. on April 9. Those in the know are aware of how hard it can be to snag a cherished spot at the event, but a few new companies were able to participate in the event this year for the first time. 

“This event is always well received by both vendors and attendees,” DeCola said. “It really is the premier elevator event of the year.” 

This year, the registration and sign-up experiences were different, and DeCola said the group is working to improve the process each year. 

About the event’s traditions, DeCola said: 

“People who come to the event for the first time always ask me what to expect; I explain to them that they will see most of your local and national vendors. And, do not miss lunch: It’s like going to a wedding, but you don’t have to bring a gift!” 

This year’s food offerings did not disappoint with bagels to start the day and an Italian-style buffet lunch of various pastas, a sausage dish, salad, bread and more. And, for the rest of the afternoon, the hallway to the right of the entry was filled with a variety of pastries of many different flavors — the pastries are an ELEVATOR WORLD favorite. 

Those who exhibited at the event agreed with DeCola when speaking about the success of their time spent there. Sam Schumacher, senior account manager for Schumacher Elevator, said the company has been attending the event for more than 10 years and that the morning traffic seemed to surpass previous years. “This is a good event for us to build our relationships with not only NYC customers and prospects but also industry professionals from New Jersey and Pennsylvania, as well,” he said, adding that it is also a good way to stay “in tune with industry trends.” 

Don Anthony, general manager for Master Elevator Parts, said this was the company’s second time to present at the event, and he agreed that it had an “incredible buzz” and strong traffic, adding: “What really stood out was the influx of new faces — young techs, startup vendors and future industry leaders. It was clear that the next generation of the elevator industry is showing up and making their mark.” He added: 

“The relationships we build here, the feedback from technicians and managers in the field and the genuine camaraderie we share with fellow suppliers make it an event we’ll keep coming back to. It’s one of the few places where handshakes still mean something and great ideas turn into real collaborations.”

Long-time attendee and EW Correspondent Matthew Jackson, owner – principal, Diversified Elevator Products, LLC, agreed with both: 

“At the showcase, the supplier fare was, as always, at its best; some new vendors were in the house, and meetings with old friends made it a day to remember. ECNY continues to bring new meaning to the local elevator industry, and they keep knocking it out of the park.” 

Another highlight of the event was the Elevator Escalator Safety Foundation 50/50 raffle.

The 25th anniversary of the showcase is tentatively set for April 15, 2026, with a rooftop event planned for the night before — most likely at the same venue.