The National Automatic Merchandising Association (NAMA) announces that Earvin “Magic” Johnson will kick off the NAMA OneShow at the opening general session Wednesday, April 24 starting at 1:15 p.m.
“We are thrilled that Magic Johnson will bring enthusiasm, excitement and showmanship to our event,” LyNae Schleyer, OneShow’s senior director said in a prepared statement. “With his achievements both on the basketball court and in the business arena, Magic will share stories of his dedication, commitment to success and leadership, which directly apply to our industry,” she continued.
Johnson has gained global recognition as the MVP-winning point guard of the Los Angeles Lakers. His 13-year career in the National Basketball Association (NBA) included five national championships, 12 NBA All-Star Games, a gold medal at the 1992 Olympics and induction into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. Johnson’s business portfolio spans a variety of industries. He is an owner of the Los Angeles Dodgers and the chairman of VIBE Holdings LLC, a multicultural media company. As chairman and CEO of Magic Johnson Enterprises, Johnson’s other businesses include a real estate and an equity fund, a television network, a staffing company, a food and facilities management company, a dropout prevention and recovery program, and more.
Beyond his successful business ventures, Johnson’s philanthropic organization, the Magic Johnson Foundation, is one of the most recognizable charitable organizations in the world. Above all, Johnson is committed to bringing jobs and brand-name businesses to underserved communities.
Attendees at the opening session will also hear “State of the Industry” remarks from NAMA President and CEO, Carla Balakgie. Following the kick-off event, the excitement continues with the opening of the show floor featuring the industry’s largest, most comprehensive exhibits featuring products, machines, services and business growth opportunities.
The NAMA OneShow 2013, April 24 to 26 at the Venetian-Sands Resort in Las Vegas, Nev. is the largest trade show for the vending and refreshment services industry with more than 4,500 exhibitors and participants. In addition to a dynamic show floor featuring business-building opportunities, OneShow provides educational and networking to inspire a new generation of industry leaders.
