Puerto Rico: The Land of Music, Colors, and the Scent of the Sea.
A place where languages blend and cultures converge, where the ocean leaves its unmistakable taste in the air.
In August 2024, we decided to return to the OTR Conference organized by the TIA, and Puerto Rico quickly landed on our radar.
Could we say no to a week under the Caribbean sun? Absolutely not.
But the reasons that took us across the ocean were far more compelling:
– To stay updated on the North American market trends
– To meet with our distributors and clients
– To build new connections
– To scout for the latest industry innovations
Initially, the plan was to attend as visitors, like in 2022 and 2023.
But, as we were preparing for October’s Global OTR Conference, we realized we wanted to showcase our latest innovations in San Juan. The only way to do that was to sponsor the event.
Luck was on our side, and by November, we had secured our place as one of the Leisure Sponsors.
I started reflecting on how far VM Rubber has come in just five years. From a two-person micro-enterprise, attending trade shows as visitors, to a five-person team with a consistent presence at major international events.
Back to facts: the Conference took place between February 19th and 22nd in San Juan. Reaching the location was a breeze: Linate – Madrid, Madrid – San Juan. A quick tap on Uber, and in minutes, we were at the hotel.
We went to bed, and in the blink of an eye, the sun rose over the first day.
- DAY ONE – FIRST STEPS INTO THE CONFERENCE
Wednesday morning began with a thoroughly American breakfast: eggs, bacon, and pancakes. I am not a breakfast person, but when I am abroad, I cannot resist. And for those who know what exhibiting at trade shows means, it’s often the most substantial meal of the day.
With still five hours to go before the conference kick-off, we made a plan:
- Step 1: Set up our table.
- Step 2: Visit a client.
We always take the chance to visit clients whenever we can, especially those we’ve known for years. It’s invaluable to see our products in their natural environment, understand potential improvements, and help solve issues. Plus, it gives us a deeper insight into the country.
By 2:00 PM, we had collected our badges, tasted a local rum, stocked up on candy, and taken our seats in the conference hall.
At 5:00 PM, the Kick-Off Gathering took the stand.
Imagine a room buzzing with delegates, visitors, and exhibitors moving between 77 tables, each showcasing products, catalogs, and branded goodies.
We settled at Table 5, and the dance began:
– A business card exchanged, and a gadget gifted
– A chat and a bite
– A catalog and a drink
The hall was alive with energy. Conversations unfolded in English, Spanish, Italian, and at least five other languages. Faces were matched to email addresses.
By 8:00 PM, it was time to get some fresh air and explore the T-MOBILE District, a lively hub of DJs, screens, food, and nightlife.
Then, jetlag reminded us it was time for our beauty sleep. Day two awaited, and it wouldn’t be forgiving.
- DAY TWO – DEEP DIVE INTO THE MARKET TRENDS
Thursday, 7:00 AM: Breakfast. A good coffee, Am I for real? And at 7:30, the rattling signaled the start of the General Session.
The presentation that captivated me the most? US ECONOMIC FORECAST.
I had been looking forward to it, eager to understand how those living and working in the US perceived their future. The focus was on construction and mining, but the discussion extended to everyday life issues—like the challenges of buying a home.
Key topics?
- Inflation
- Interest rates
- Tariffs
- Workforce shortages
- Immigration policies
Facts that weaved together shape the decisions of individuals and businesses.
Inflation remains a major concern in the US. It’s decreasing, but not fast enough. Especially, with interest rates not going down.
The real estate market is a perfect example: a homeowner who locked in a mortgage rate 20 years ago has little incentive to sell and take on today’s higher rates. This stagnation ripples across the entire industry.
Another pressing issue? Tariffs and immigration.
Finding skilled workers is increasingly difficult, and tighter immigration policies will further impact workforce availability. Add to that the tariff war affecting imports from Canada, Mexico, China, and Europe, and you have the perfect recipe for rising costs.
In contrast, the mining sector is in a better state.
Coal consumption in the US remains stable and is not expected to drop, because energy production is anchored to coal. While global reductions are ideal, and India is reducing its consumption, China still burns 30% more coal than the rest of the world combined.
What is thriving is the gold mining sector, fueled by soaring gold prices.
After the session, we had a great discussion with David Wilson from RETREADING BUSINESS.
We shared stories, aspirations, and perspectives on the global tire retreading industry. We saw each other in our stories.
It’s always a pleasure to meet David, whose dedication takes him around the globe, gathering insights and raising awareness of how retreading impacts the economy and the environment.
The afternoon was about leisure: golf tournaments, recreational and discovering activities.
We seized the opportunity to visit Old San Juan, a neighborhood draped in pastel hues, where Spanish fortresses meet the ocean, and history breathes through the streets. Music, scents, and life filled every corner.
After our small tour, we headed to the hotel to get ready for the Mix & Mingle. An informal apericena (aperitif + dinner) on the rhythm of a live band, laughs, and tacos.
- DAY THREE – INSPIRATION AND LAST DANCES
Friday, 7:30 AM: Breakfast. More eggs, bacon, coffee, and the jingling announcing the final round of talks.
The motivational speaker was Dave Sanderson, a survivor of the 2009 Hudson River plane crash. His experience transformed him into an advocate for resilience. Proof that adversity can lead to unexpected opportunities.
From 12 to 2 PM, the last tabletop session took place. Time to stroll around the 70+ tables, exchange ideas, satisfy one’s curiosity, and collect a few more souvenirs for our families and colleagues.
The official sessions ended with Breakout Sessions leading up to the grand finale: a cocktail reception with professional portraits and the gala dinner.
The conference balances formal and informal moments, allowing attendees to discover new companies, share goals, and, most importantly, build friendships beyond business.
So, at 7 PM, we took our photo, proof we really attended the conference. We had dinner with old and new friends before heading to the T-Mobile Arena one last time.
- CLOSING WITH A TASTE OF THE OCEAN
Saturday, 8:30 AM: last breakfast, final goodbyes, and then… the beach.
We couldn’t leave Puerto Rico without feeling the ocean.
We embraced a few hours of pure relaxation since our flight would have departed late at night. We watched the locals gather, and it was clear: the beach is more than a destination, it’s a way of life.
We allowed ourselves to a poolside burger before getting ready to travel home.
We’re proud of every new experience, and this one was no exception. Sponsoring the event was the right decision.
With 70 editions, 500 participants from 12 countries, and a dominant role in the earthmoving sector, this conference solidified VM Rubber’s reputation.
In just five years, we’ve carved out space among the industry giants. And the connections made here? We are sure they’ll help us expand even further.
And now, Antwerp awaits.
This October, Europe will stage the Global OTR Conference for the first time.
It will be a unique opportunity for European companies to familiarize themselves with this type of gathering and for us to strengthen our offerings.
We hope for an intense turnout, attracting companies from in and beyond our European borders.
We can’t wait!
