WKMA ending 3i SHOW beginning in 2025
For many years, farmers and ranchers made the annual trek to the 3i SHOW to see the latest in farm equipment and other supplies; however, the 2024 show was the last one.
Eddie Estes, president and CEO of the Dodge City, Kansas-based Western Kansas Manufacturers Association, confirmed on Dec. 4 that there would not be a show in 2025.
The decision was not an easy one for the WKMA board to make. Estes has been associated with the 3i SHOW for 45 years. The farm and ranch show was one of the oldest in the United States. The 3i SHOW stood for industry, implements and irrigation. The show’s roots were always about agricultural producers. Some of the earliest stops were road shows to show the newest in farm equipment in various communities in western Kansas.
As the show grew, it found dual homes in Garden City and Great Bend as the show rotated between the two communities for more than 30 years. Since 2012, it had been based in Dodge City at the Western State Bank Expo Center. That first year was one Estes remembered when the community and region pulled together.
“We sold over 1 million square feet outside, and all the inside spaces were filled,” he said, noting that the arena was full of activities, too.
An announcement was sent to WKMA members and others who had supported the show in the past. The statement read:
“As most of you know, there have been many changes since we experienced the COVID pandemic. Those changes include our workforce, the way we purchase items, event attendance and quite possibly how we live our lives in general. Since the pandemic, the 3i SHOW has experienced a decline in both attendance and exhibitors.
“As the saying goes, all good things must come to an end, and, unfortunately, that is the case with the 3i SHOW. To say we are saddened to have made this decision is an understatement. The 3i SHOW celebrated its 70th annual show this year, and for that we are beyond grateful.
“We know most of you are planning your budgets and show exhibits for 2025, and we wanted to make everyone aware of this change. We apologize for any inconvenience this decision may have caused and hope you can understand our position. We want nothing more than our exhibitors’ time and efforts to be utilized in the best possible manner. WKMA, the sponsor of the 3i SHOW, will remain a corporation working for our members and the agri-business industry. We wish everyone much luck and prosperity in the years ahead. To say that we will miss you, again, is an understatement. Thank you for 70 amazing years and memories! We cherish them all!”
Estes said the COVID-19 pandemic was probably the toughest challenge not only for the WKMA, but for many other farm shows as he keeps regular contact with others. Other factors include that major industries and manufacturers at one time were anchors for the 3i SHOW, but they changed their strategies. The 3i SHOW was one of many shows impacted by the change, he said.
With technology today, farmers and ranchers can use a phone to purchase a truck or tractor.
“Everything has changed in farm equipment, but also other businesses. It’s just the way it is,” Estes said.
He also implored people who have previously attended the 3i SHOW to continue to support other shows. He takes pride in the many friends and businesses who loyally supported the show and said the WKMA will continue to foster economic development in rural communities.
“I have never met nicer people than those who came to our shows,” Estes said. “They were the salt of the earth people who attended the show year after year.”
Estes said he remains thankful for the community’s support over the years, and he has many fond memories of volunteers and businesses reaching out to help the show.
He said that spirit remains with the WKMA, which also has helped push agriculture and workforce development.
“We will continue to take that commitment and (use those) relationships in building agribusiness and industry,” he said.
Dave Bergmeier can be reached at 620-227-1822 or dbergmei[email protected].
