Surfaces 2008 Show

The Chinese "Invasion" continues. Dozens upon dozens of Asian, primarily Chinese, suppliers crowded the Sands convention center at Surfaces 2008. Show highlights included mass delays in moving to and from the area on Thursday due to the presence of President Bush, who was staying next door apparently. More specifically, numerous Chinese suppliers continue to attempt to gain footholds in the U.S. market. While their price points often were attractive, questions arose concerning the reliability of many such vendors' ability to supply. Further, some appeared to be offering clear knock offs of patented products. While pirates might get buy when it comes to DVDs or watches, it remains to be seen whether those freely bootlegging patented technology and trademarked designs will get a pass from North American and European manufacturers holding U.S. legal protections.