The Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM) has withdrawn from a proposed collaborative venture with the Kentucky State Fair Board (KSFB) for the National Farm Machinery Show, which was announced in February at the 2017 show.

AEM and KSFB had signed a letter of intent and announced a verbal agreement under which AEM would assist with the management and co-production of the annual indoor farm machinery show which has been held at the Kentucky Expo Center in Louisville for 52 years. However, according to AEM, “the two parties were not able to reach a final agreement on how to proceed forward and as a result, AEM’s Ag Sector Board has decided to withdraw from the proposed venture with the KSFB for the National Farm Machinery Show.”

Jason Rittenberry, who signed the agreement for KSFB and launched its rebranding as Kentucky Venues in March, resigned from his position as president and CEO last month after less than a year on the job.

“In today’s competitive marketplace, it is important for companies to leverage their presence at trade shows into sound investments,” said John Lagemann, chair of AEM’s Ag Sector Board. “With that in mind, we remain hopeful that we can continue to find ways AEM and the KSFB can collaborate going forward for the benefit of the industry.”

AEM reaffirms its commitment to provide ways for its members to have meaningful engagement with farmers, including its existing relationship with Commodity Classic and additional educational events.

Post Update: Chuck talks with Curt Blades, senior vice president, AG services, AEM, about the announcement: Interview with Curt Blades, AEM