"This commitment demonstrates The Toro Co.'s leadership and continued support of the IGCEMA and its initiatives," said Stephen Tucker, the association's founder and virtual trade show developer. "John Deere has been a partner of the IGCEMA since our inception and has supported us in many different ways from sponsoring our very first reception at the Golf Industry Show to being the platinum sponsor of our Web site. Partnering with us on the Virtual Trade Show really shows their commitment to embracing new ideas and innovations and their willingness to continue supporting our efforts and it is much appreciated."

Tucker says the VTS will be an exciting event for the golf industry around the world.

"We believe that this will give others who, for whatever reason might not be able to attend a physical trade show, the opportunity to learn about what is new in the market and to experience it in a virtual trade show environment," he says. "We're confident other companies will also recognize this unmet need and participate as well."

"Investment in education and professional development have always been a top priority at Toto," said Bob VandenBoom, Toro’s Seniro Marketing Manager for Golf. "While a Virtual Trade Show will not take the place of our involvement at key trade shows like the Golf Industry Show, it does clearly represent an opportunity for Toro to reach many of our valued customers who cannot attend the show in a very cost-effective and interactive way. It also provides more global access to exciting new product or service innovations that can save time, money or provide environmental sustainability benefits."

"John Deere Golf is focused on providing our customers support across the entire course, that’s why sponsoring IGCEMA programs makes perfect sense,” says Gregg Breningmeyer, group director, sales and marketing. "We believe in IGCEMA’s commitment to the development of equipment managers, technicians and mechanics and are pleased to stand alongside them in their efforts in education and reputation development."

Registration for the show is at IGCEMA VTS.